The season of everything pumpkin has officially arrived!
Keep in mind that many of the pumpkin flavored foods and beverages that are sold at this time of year are full of trans-fat and added sugars. These could be identified on the food label by partially hydrogenated oils. Many foods may also only be “pumpkin flavored” and not contain any actual health boosting pumpkin!
To get the healthiest benefits of pumpkin, try adding canned pumpkin or making your own pumpkin puree in your recipes! You can add pumpkin to smoothies and breakfast yoghurt parfaits. You could also make your own pumpkin spice lattes with canned pumpkin, low fat milk, coffee and pumpkin pie spice flavoring (cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and ground cloves).
In addition to being super delicious, here are nine health benefits of pumpkins and other squash:
- Have lots of Vitamin A
- Good for cholesterol and heart health
- Regulate blood sugar
- Great source of fiber
- Good source of zinc
- Anti-inflammatory benefits for arthritis and prevents cancer
- Provide skin health and protection
- Have potassium for refueling and promotes mental health and relaxation!
- Boost mood and help you sleep
So stock up on pumpkin and other squash and reap all of the health benefits listed above! Here is a recipe for Healthy Pumpkin Bread to enjoy making with your family. (Click on the link above or the image below to open the recipe in another tab and print!)
We hope you enjoy your fall and holiday festivities!
Brought to you by Inyo County Health and Human Services Public Health and Prevention Division and the following programs:
