Pumpkin pie, pumpkin hummus, pumpkin pudding, pumpkin ravioli, pumpkin ice cream–the possibilities are delicious and never-ending. People like to carve pumpkins this time of year, but seldom do they actually incorporate this signature fall squash into their meals. That’s all about to change for National Pumpkin Day!
In addition to being an incredibly versatile ingredient, pumpkin packs some amazing health benefits. As long as you aren’t consuming artificially sweetened pumpkin spice lattes and sugary pumpkin pies, pumpkins can help to maintain heart health, sharpen eyesight, and protect the skin.
Improves Heart Health
Pumpkin seeds contain plant-based chemicals that are known as phytosterols. According to several studies, these chemicals have been known to reduce LDL cholesterol levels.
High In Antioxidants
Oxidative stress can take a toll on your body and can occasionally lead to chronic illnesses like cancer and heart disease. Pumpkins contain antioxidants that work to neutralize free radicals, inhibiting them from damaging cells. The alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, and beta-cryptoxanthin antioxidants in pumpkin have been known to reduce the risk of eye diseases and certain cancers.
Protects The Skin
The same antioxidants that help to fight free radicals in the body are the same ones that can help keep your skin looking youthful. Beta-carotene, for instance, gets converted into vitamin A in the body, and one cup of cooked pumpkin satisfies 245% of your recommended daily intake of vitamin A. Carotenoids act like a natural sunblock and help protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
Pumpkins are incredibly versatile, delicious, and easy to incorporate into your diet. Try the following recipes on National Pumpkin Day and let us know how you like them.
Raw Vegan Pumpkin Pie Tarts
Get in the fall spirit by making these sweet and delectable pumpkin tarts. The best thing about this dessert is that it is hard to mess up!
Click here to make the recipe.
Creamy Vegan Pumpkin Soup
Whether you are on a beta-carotene kick or trying to incorporate pumpkins into your diet, this creamy pumpkin soup is exactly what you need.
Click here to make the recipe.
Pumpkin Spice Fudge
This raw vegan pumpkin spice fudge is exactly what you need during the fall season. With only five ingredients, it’s so easy to make!
Click here to make the recipe.
Pumpkin Banana Ice Cream
With a classic pumpkin spice flavor and a slight hint of carrot, this raw ice cream is the perfect fall dessert. Let us know how you like it.
Click here to make the recipe.
