- Pumpkin contains many vitamins, antioxidants and minerals beneficial for health.
- Vitamin C in pumpkin contributes to firming and healthy skin.
- Pumpkin is a low-calorie food suitable as a side dish.
Pumpkin is a natural antidepressant, its seeds reduce cholesterol. It can be considered an autumn miracle for the content of vitamins A, B, C and E, as well as antioxidants and minerals such as potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron, zinc, phosphorus and copper. The Regional Office of Public Health (RÚVZ) Bratislava drew attention to this on the social network.
“Pumpkin seeds are also healthy and beneficial for the body. They are a great source of monounsaturated fatty acids, selenium, zinc, but also tryptophan, which affects the level of serotonin,” explained Zuzana Klinčáková from the Department of Health Support and Health Education, RÚVZ.
She explained that pumpkin itself contains a high percentage of fiber. “The fact that it has a high content of vitamin C also has a beneficial effect on our skin. Our body needs this vitamin to produce collagen, which keeps the skin strong and healthy. “Collagen is a basic component that affects the elasticity of the skin and contributes to its strengthening,” she emphasized.
She added that pumpkin seeds also have several positive effects on the human body. “They lower the cholesterol level, maintain the blood sugar level, improve the condition of the bladder and prostate, protect the bones and intestines and improve the quality of sleep. The oil, which is obtained from pumpkin seeds, strengthens the immune system and has a mild nutty taste,” said the expert.
She pointed out that pumpkin is also suitable as a side dish, since unlike potatoes or rice, it is low in calories. Pumpkins are made up of more than 90 percent water and are among the fruit vegetables that are related to watermelon and cucumber. Botanically, they are considered “the largest berry in the world”. “Its effects were already known and used by the ancient Indians. They ate not only the fruits, but also the leaves and seeds, which act as an aphrodisiac and have diuretic effects,” explained Klinčáková.
