Pumpkin Season!

The season is finally here. The pumpkin patches are full! These nutritious fruits are ready to be turned into deliciously satisfying dishes!

Pumpkins are low in fat and calories and full of nutrients and vitamins such as:

Alpha-carotene
Beta-carotene
Fiber
Vitamins C and E
Potassium
Magnesium
Pantothenic acid
The body converts carotenoids into Vitamin A which ensures proper eye function and protects the immune system. Beta-carotene works to reverse skin damage and is an anti-inflammatory. Pumpkin is also a great source of fiber. Fiber reduces bad cholesterol levels, protects the body against heart disease, controls blood sugar levels, promotes healthy digestion, and plays a role in weight loss.

You can eat pumpkin fresh during the fall and winter or from the can year round. The puree can be mixed in with smoothies, used for soup, combined in yogurts or made into puddings. Pumpkin seeds are a great source of nutrients as well and are wonderful toasted in the oven lightly sprinkled with salt. This time of year our kitchen at home is filled with the scent of baking pumpkin bread and pumpkin pies.

Try something new and indulge in the offerings from this year’s fall harvest.