Why Enjoy Pumpkin This Fall?

Pumpkin lattes, scones, pies…what’s all the hype about?

Not only is it an icon of all things fall, pumpkin has tons of surprising nutritional benefits!

It’s rich in both Vitamin A and C! You’ve probably heard how amazing carrots are for your eyes and sight, but did you know pumpkin actually contains almost double the amount of Beta carotene (the compound that’s converted to vitamin A)? Meaning it offers double the nutrients for your eyes! Not only is it great for your eyes, vitamin A also boosts the immune systems “natural killer” cells, which are the cells that specifically fight diseases. To add to the immunity boosting benefits, pumpkin also contains vitamin C. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant known for strengthening the immune system!

Not only is it full of vitamins, this nutrient dense vegetable is also full of fibre, something we don’t typically get enough of in our daily diets (we are getting about ½ of the current DRI’s for fibre intake). Fibre works to slow the movement of food through your digestive system, which slows the absorption of carbohydrates (so you don’t get that sugar spike), fills you up for longer, can lower cholesterol and promotes a healthy digestive tract.

Finally, by containing the electrolytes magnesium and potassium, pumpkin can also help boost muscle function and regulate blood pressure! Both work to relax the walls of the blood vessels, lowering blood pressure and protecting against muscle cramping (fun fact: pumpkin actually contains MORE potassium than a banana).

So if you wanted to get your daily dose of vitamins and minerals and your a sucker for fall…pumpkin is the way to go!…As if you needed more of an excuse to dig into our yummy pumpkin treats!!!