2. High in antioxidants that may reduce your risk of chronic diseases
Excessive free radicals in the body can cause oxidative stress which in turn is linked to a host of chronic diseases like heart ailments and cancer.
Pumpkins are rich in alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, and beta-cryptoxanthin–all of which neutralise free radicals and stop them from damaging cells.
3. High in vitamins that may boost immunity
Pumpkin is packed with nutrients that can boost your immune system. It’s high in beta-carotene, which your body turns into vitamin A.
According to studies, vitamin A can strengthen your immune system and help fight infections. Conversely, people with a vitamin A deficiency can have a weaker immune system.
Pumpkin is also rich in vitamin C, which research suggests increases white blood cell production, helps immune cells work more effectively, and speeds wound healing.
Besides the two vitamins mentioned above, pumpkin is also a good source of vitamin E, iron, and folate — all of which may aid the immune system.
4. It is good for your eyes
A glass of pumpkin spice latte could pack in a punch, healthwise. Beta-carotene in pumpkin provides the body with necessary vitamin A, the deficiency of which is a common cause of blindness.
Scientists have found that greater vitamin A and beta-carotene intakes might stave off the risk of cataract. Not to mention, the vitamins C and E prevent free radicals from damaging eye cells.
5. Nutrient density and low calorie count may promote weight loss
Pumpkin is seen as a nutrient-dense food. That means it’s incredibly low in calories despite being packed with nutrients.
In fact, pumpkin has under 50 calories per cup (245 grams) and about 94% water per cooked cup.
Simply put, pumpkin is a weight-loss-friendly food because you can consume more of it than other carb sources — such as rice and potatoes — but still take in fewer calories. Pumpkin is also a good source of fiber, which can help curb your appetite.
6. It can reduce your risk of cancer
Today’s lifestyle and eating habits often expose a person to cancer. However, studies have found that people who consume foods high in alpha-carotene and beta-carotene have significantly lower stomach cancer risks.
Many researches have also highlighted higher intakes of carotenoids lower risks of a number of other types of cancer.
Here’s a paraphrased version of sections 7–9:
