Oct 5, 2009

Soule Restaurant's Food Fact: Pumpkin



Pumpkin is part of the gourd or cucurbit family and is an excellent source of vitamins A and C. It also contains potassium, manganese, copper and one of the B vitamins, riboflavin. In its raw state, it helps to maintain good eyesight and a healthy immune system.

Its seeds are a popular snack that is simply bursting with nutritional value.
Pumpkin seeds are a natural source of carbohydrates, amino acids and unsaturated fatty acids. They contain most of the B vitamins, along with C, D, E, and K and possess the minerals calcium, potassium, niacin, and phosphorous.

Pumpkin seeds have been used to treat prostate and bladder problems, but they have also been known to help with depression and learning disabilities.

In many cultures, they are used as a natural remedy for tapeworms and parasites.
They also lower cholesterol due to their high level of phytosterols, which are also known to protect against many cancers.

So, when you prepare your pumpkin pies, soups and breads this holiday season, don’t neglect the seeds!

They’re a veritable treasure!

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