Pumpkin Seeds

Power Food: Pumpkin

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Three pumpkins with fall leaves with seasonal backgroundHalloween and pumpkin harvesting time are fast approach (and are here respectively). With that comes the use of pumpkins in décor and baking as well. Not only are pumpkins entertaining for the season and satisfying to the taste, but they also have some impressive health benefits. In the research world, much research has been presented for the health benefits of pumpkin seeds. However, the puree of the pumpkin also has some health benefits of its own. This blog will explore both components and how consuming each may contribute to good health.

Pumpkin Puree

As mentioned above, more of the research on pumpkins has been focused on the medicinal properties of the seed. However, the puree, though less heavily researched, does have some beneficial properties to it. Many do not realize that pumpkin contains one of the highest levels of vitamin A compared to its vegetable counterparts. It contains more than 200x the recommended daily allowance for vitamin A! In addition, the puree provides a source of fiber, flavonoids, and antioxidants. In addition to these constituents, pumpkins are considered a low calorie vegetable, which is often recommended for those with diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. This low calorie vegetable accounts for approximately 30 calories per 100 grams!

Pumpkin Seeds

Much research has been devoted to the medicinal effects of this seed (that is often thrown away). Pumpkin seeds, similar to the pumpkin puree, are a good source of dietary fiber. However, this source of dietary fiber is loaded with beneficial oils, specifically unsaturated fatty acids, that aid in good health. Other beneficial nutrients found in pumpkin seeds include vitamin E, beta carotene, lutein,

Health Benefits

As a result of all of the components that the different pumpkin parts contain, the following list of therapeutic effects can be associated with pumpkins:

  • Anti – diabetic: beneficial in diabetes
  • Anti – oxidant: decreases oxidative stress
  • Anti – carcinogenic: beneficial against cancer
  • Anti – inflammatory: decreases inflammation
  • Diuretic: can decrease urinary tract and prostatic symptoms
  • Anti – helminthic: beneficial against different parasites
  • Estrogenic: promotes estrogen update, building, and use
  • HDL Cholesterol promoting: increases levels of HDL (good) cholesterol

Have you benefitted from reading this blog? Know someone that would benefit as well? Share, Like, Comment, or Tweet this article, and let me know what you think.

Some of the information provided above may not be appropriate for everyone, please consult with your doctor before trying any of the above. If you are interested in Naturopathic Medicine and wanting a different approach to your health care needs, please book an appointment with Elisha Cook at the RSNC (416-498-9763), and let me help you achieve your health goals.

Pumpkin Craisin Bars Recipe

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This recipe was inspired by the Craisin Bars recipe I posted several weeks ago. The changes I made were in the hopes of making it more “friendly” for those who might not like walnuts.

Ingredients:

  • 2 Tablespoons of Almond Butter (I like to use Almond and Cashew Butter)
  • 1/2 Cup of Brazil Nuts
  • 1/2 Cup of Dehulled pumpkin seeds
  • 1 Cup of Dates
  • 1 Cup of Dried Cranberries (Craisins)
  • 2 Teaspoons of Vanilla

Directions:

  1. Begin by using a food processor to grind the brazil nuts and pumpkin seeds. Set the Ingredients aside.
  2. Combine the Almond Butter, Dried Cranberries, Dates and Vanilla in the food processor and grind until it becomes finely chopped.
  3. Add the Nut mixture to the Fruit and Almond Butter Mixture, and mix well.
  4. Lay wax paper down in a casserole dish and put the mixture in the dish, making it flat and pressed down.
  5. Let the mixture set, then cut into bar shapes.
  6. Lay them flat in your freezer and let them harden.
  7. Pull them out of the freezer when ready to enjoy!
  8. Alternatively, you can use the mixture to make small “Energy Balls”, as opposed to the bars.

Have you benefitted from reading this blog? Know someone that would benefit as well? Share, Like, Comment, or Tweet this article, and let me know what you think.

Some of the information provided above may not be appropriate for everyone, please consult with your doctor before trying any of the above. If you are interested in Naturopathic Medicine and wanting a different approach to your health care needs, please book an appointment with Elisha Cook at the RSNC today and let me help you achieve your health goals.