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Carotenoid pigments, plant proteins, your pumpkins, and your better health
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Before you discard the pulp of your carved pumpkins, read about the many health benefits of pumpkin.
One cup of mashed, cooked pumpkin is comprised of 94% water and contributes 50 calories to the diet. It contains no saturated fat or cholesterol, and its two grams of protein are plant-based, and therefore, contributes to good health; animal-based proteins are harmful to the body. The fiber content of a pumpkin contributes to good health as well as these other plant compounds:
Carotenoids -- Carotenoids, pigments made by plants, algae, and plant bacteria, can be converted to retinol by the body. Retinol, another term for Vitamin A, is required for normal growth and development, immune system function, and vision.
Lutein and zeaxanthin -- Lutein and zeaxanthin are the only carotenoids found in the retina. Because they absorb blue light and prevent it from entering the eye, lutein and zeaxanthin may help to protect against light-induced oxidative damage, which is believed to play a role in macular degeneration.
Canned pumpkin is nutritious as well, but may not have nutrient content of mashed, cooked pumpkin. Researchers have identified more than 10,000 plant-chemicals that contribute to good health, and there is plenty reason to believe that there are another 10,000 to be found.
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