Pumpkin: benefits and harms to the body, recipes

We are all so accustomed to the fact that pumpkin is always present in the markets, in stores, grown in vegetable gardens and summer cottages, that we cannot imagine that sunny-bright fruits appeared in our country relatively recently. Mexican Indians have been growing pumpkins since 7 BC. It was brought to Europe by Spanish navigators in the XNUMXth century. After some time, they “met” her in the Russian Empire. An unpretentious plant, pleasing with abundant harvests, was to the taste of the villagers and residents of the city. Pumpkin has become one of the main products, which not only saturates and delights with taste, but also has medicinal qualities.

Health benefits of pumpkin

Valuable medicinal properties of pumpkin are explained by its rich composition. Surprisingly, with a variety of different minerals, vitamins, fiber, amino acids, it is a low-calorie product. Pumpkin pulp, which is 94% water, and seeds are used for food.

Pumpkin has a comprehensive effect on the human body:

• Activates the synthesis of testosterone.

• Improves sperm quality, helps fight infertility.

• Heals prostate tissue.

• Neutralizes the harm of nicotine, protects the lungs from malignant changes.

• Relieves symptoms of menopause in women.

• Stops inflammatory processes.

• Restores tissue of the cervix.

• Calms the effects of toxicosis during pregnancy.

• Saturates the blood with iron, raises the level of hemoglobin.

• Stabilizes blood glucose levels in diabetic patients.

• Strengthens the myocardium.

Composition and calorie content

Other important connections:

• Phytosterols — 12 mg (21,8% of RDI)

• Purine — 2,8 mg (1,7% of RDI)

• Oxalic acid — 22 mg (5,5% of RDI)

6 health benefits of pumpkin

1 Pumpkin protects against chronic diseases

In the pathogenesis of any chronic process lies the action of free radicals and markers of inflammation. Free radicals are formed as a result of metabolic processes. Oxidative stress can act as a provocateur of chronic disorders, heart pathologies, and oncological diseases.

Antioxidants can neutralize the damaging effects of free radicals. In pumpkin, these are alpha and beta-carotenes, beta-cryptoxanthin. Natural active substances destroy only free radical molecules without harming healthy cells of the body.

Animal experiments have shown that the antioxidants found in pumpkin can protect the skin from ultraviolet radiation, reduce the likelihood of cancer, eye diseases ^[1], ^[2].

2 Supports immunity

Human immune functions are supported by specific nutrients. Pumpkin contains a lot of beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A by the body. Medical studies prove that vitamin A maintains, strengthens the immune system, and helps fight bacterial and viral infections. Vitamin A deficiency leads to weakened immune system ^[3].

Vitamin C, found in pumpkin, promotes the synthesis of white blood cells, cells that provide immunity. Natural ascorbic acid helps the processes of regeneration of both internal organs and the healing of wounds of various origins.

Vitamin E, iron, folic acid, which are quite a lot contained in pumpkin pulp, have pronounced immunostimulating properties.

Pumpkin is able to protect, stimulate the immune system. It contains a lot of valuable trace elements and vitamins that the body needs to prevent various diseases.

3 Protects your vision

With age, more than 80% of people notice a decrease in visual acuity. Observations of age subjects have shown that the use of pumpkin, rich in vitamins, helps to improve the quality of vision.

The orange color of the pumpkin is due to the high concentration of beta-carotene. Our body has a unique ability – it converts beta-carotene into vitamin A. As you know, it is the lack of vitamin A that leads to visual impairment, and sometimes to blindness.

Scientists from different countries, independently of each other, have conducted more than 20 studies related to the intake of beta-carotene in high dosages. It turned out that this unique compound significantly reduces the likelihood of developing age-related cataracts, which often lead to complete blindness. ^[4].

Lutein and zeaxanthin are carotenoids found in pumpkin pulp that protect the eyes from the damaging effects of free radicals. Studies have shown that lutein and zeaxanthin inhibit age-related degenerative changes in the macula, which is responsible for central vision. ^[5].

4 Protection against cancer

Cancer is based on the abnormal growth and development of cells. Tumor cells undergo structural changes and begin to produce free radical compounds. This feature provides them with rapid reproduction and distribution.

Pumpkin pulp contains a lot of carotenoids – organic compounds with pronounced antioxidant properties. They are able to suppress the activity of free radicals and thus protect against certain tumor pathologies.

More than 10 studies have been conducted to elucidate the anti-cancer properties of alpha- and beta-carotene. All experiments have shown that eating pumpkin reduces the likelihood of stomach cancer. ^[6].

Carotenoids have shown antitumor activity against cancer of the pancreas, throat, and mammary glands. A number of leading medical institutes continue to study the beneficial anti-cancer properties of pumpkin pulp in relation to other types of cancer. ^[7], ^[8], ^[9].

5 Benefits for the heart

Pumpkin contains many components that affect the health of the cardiovascular system. Of particular value are potassium, ascorbic acid and fiber. A regular intake of potassium protects blood vessels, helps stabilize blood pressure and reduces the risk of stroke.

Antioxidants react with low-density lipoproteins (bad cholesterol), which prevents their molecules from attaching to the inner wall of blood vessels, thereby narrowing them.

6 Benefits for the digestive tract

Pumpkin is part of the medical nutrition, which is prescribed for patients with gastritis, colitis. Active substances contribute to the alkalization of the food bolus, regulate the acidity of gastric juice, soothe the inflamed intestinal mucosa, inhibit increased gas formation.

Regular consumption of pumpkin dishes helps to restore the patency of the bile ducts. After hepatitis, pumpkin promotes the regeneration of damaged hepatocytes. Valuable substances help reduce LDL levels, stimulate carbohydrate metabolism.

Benefits for men

For men, pumpkin seeds are the main value. They protect men from prostatitis and prostate adenoma, and also improve the quality of sperm.

Protect the prostate. According to a study published in the Indian Journal of Urology, eating pumpkin seeds can positively impact prostate health and also improve hormone function in men.

Consuming pumpkin seeds may help with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). 

Various studies have shown that regular consumption of pumpkin seeds can help reduce symptoms associated with BPH.

Improves male fertility. Men can benefit from zinc, which contains up to 20,2 mg per 100 g of pumpkin seeds. Decreased sperm quality and even infertility in men can be linked to low zinc levels. Including these seeds in your daily diet can help improve overall sperm quality.

According to the book “Healing Foods” by DK Publishing, pumpkin seeds are beneficial for increasing male fertility and preventing prostration problems. The antioxidant content can also affect healthy testosterone levels.

Benefits for women

Normal weight support. Pumpkin pulp is rich in nutrients, but at the same time it is 94% water and contains a minimum amount of calories. There are only 200 kcal per 52 grams of pumpkin. The combination of these qualities makes pumpkin an ideal product for weight loss. Try to replace the usual side dishes that contain a lot of carbohydrates (rice, potatoes) with pumpkin dishes. Pumpkin is a source of vegetable fiber, which gives a feeling of satiety, regulates appetite and helps to lose weight. By eating orange pulp, you will get a quick saturation with a minimum calorie content of food.

Improves skin condition. Vitamin A is one of the main ingredients for skin health. 245 grams of boiled pumpkin pulp contains more than 240% carotenoids, which are the precursors of vitamin A. Our body converts beta-carotene into vitamin A on its own through complex biochemical processes. Natural carotenoids have the effect of a natural sunscreen. They give the skin a beautiful even tone.

After eating pumpkin dishes, carotenoids enter the bloodstream and thus spread through the internal tissues, including the dermal layers. In the epidermis, beta-carotene triggers a protective mechanism against the negative effects of ultraviolet radiation.

For healthy skin, it is important to get enough vitamin C. It is involved in the formation of collagen. Collagen is necessary for the skin to maintain elasticity, tone and health.

Pumpkin antioxidants – lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamin E – ensure the safety of the skin, protect against solar radiation and free radicals.

The benefits of pumpkin for various diseases

Pumpkin is one of the record-breaking plants for the presence of a variety of useful substances. It contains a lot of fluorine and zinc, a high content of calcium and potassium, phosphorus and copper, a high proportion of iron. The pulp is rich in vitamins, including – C and group B, as well as carotene.

• Pumpkin pulp has shown itself well as a mild laxative and diuretic. And also to activate the metabolism and inflammation. Pumpkin pulp compresses are used if someone is burned, with rashes and eczema.

• The pulp boiled with honey is used for hepatic and renal pathologies, diseases of the bladder, cardiovascular diseases, accompanied by edema. 

• Baked pulp does not irritate kidney tissue, it is a dietary food. It helps to cope with nausea during pregnancy.

• Porridge boiled from pumpkin, honey and millet has a beneficial effect on the intestines. It is used for colitis, if there are difficulties in cleansing the intestines.

• A good diuretic and choleretic effect is obtained if you eat half a kilogram of raw pumpkin every day for three to four months. You can take baked or boiled – one and a half to three kilograms.

• The decoction also works, which is prepared for fifteen minutes, taking fifteen to twenty grams of pumpkin stalks and two glasses of water. You need to drink every day.

• With pyelonephritis, acute or chronic cystitis, and certain types of urethritis, pumpkin porridge is “assigned”: fifty grams twice a day. Fresh pumpkin juice is good – 2-3 doses daily.

• Insomnia goes away when taking pumpkin juice or its decoction with honey.

• A decoction of flowers is applied to wounds. A good diuretic is a decoction of cuttings.

• Tibetan healers consider pumpkin to be a healing food and use it when the heart, liver and kidneys hurt. It heals gastritis with high acidity, stomach and duodenal ulcers.

More about pumpkin seeds

To paraphrase a well-known quote a little, we can say that everything in a pumpkin is beautiful and useful. Pumpkin seeds are rich in protein, essential oils, vitamin E, zinc, salicylic acid. They greatly heal the genitourinary system and heart.

The most unique element of the seeds is cucurbitin, a natural anthelmintic. They are used for therapeutic or prophylactic purposes. Pumpkin seeds have a mild effect, therefore they can be used in relation to pregnant women and children.

What are the benefits of pumpkin juice?

Pumpkin juice has the same beneficial properties as the pulp. Freshly squeezed juice has a thick texture, a subtle honey flavor. It retains a high concentration of minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, pectins.

Pumpkin juice is recommended as a prophylactic and therapeutic agent in a number of diseases:

• Cold.

• Flu.

• Hemorrhoids.

• Nervous disorders.

• Digestive disorders (constipation).

• Nausea and vomiting.

• Urolithiasis.

• Metabolism disorder.

In the midst of seasonal viral infections, it is recommended to drink 200 ml of freshly squeezed pumpkin juice daily.

Pumpkin pulp juice is used in cosmetology. It is used as lotions, lotions for:

• Skin restoration after dermatological diseases.

• Achieving a rejuvenating effect.

• Elimination of redness.

• Acne treatment.

• Improving the condition of hair, nails.

• Cell regeneration of the deep layers of the skin.

Pumpkin juice contains an almost perfect proportion of vitamin C and B vitamins, making it very beneficial for people with CNS problems. Juice helps fight depression, gives vitality, relieves fatigue and soothes.

Hematologists recommend pumpkin juice to patients with bleeding disorders. The drink contains vitamin K, which contributes to the normalization of the blood formula. Pumpkin juice is an essential component of the diet of the elderly, who often have vitamin K deficiency.

How to drink pumpkin juice?

Pumpkin juice can be drunk in its pure form, or combined with other vegetables (carrots). To improve the absorption of beta-carotene, cream is added to the drink. Animal fats provide full absorption of all valuable components.

The daily volume of juice should be 200 ml. This amount is divided into two servings and drunk at breakfast and before bedtime. For better absorption, take it with meals. A pronounced positive result is noticeable after 7-10 days.

What are the benefits of pumpkin oil?

Pumpkin oil is obtained from the seeds of the plant using a cold pressing method. Pumpkin seed oil contains essential and fatty oils, pectins, vitamins, selenium and sterols. Pumpkin oil can reduce swelling, improves metabolic processes in tissues, and also helps with burns, as it relieves inflammation. Pumpkin seed oil is used for proctological diseases, as it relieves pain, itching and burning. The most popular drug in the pharmacy is tykveol.

Pumpkin oil contains a lot of vitamin A, so it is recommended to use it for eye diseases. Pumpkin oil can be used to treat prostate adenoma and prostatitis. Pumpkin seed oil has wound healing and regenerating properties. In addition, pumpkin oil is used for diseases that are accompanied by a violation of lipid metabolism in the body, such as, for example, obesity, eczema or dermatitis.

Possible harm and contraindications

Pumpkin is definitely a healthy, safe product. The development of allergic reactions is recorded extremely rarely after the systematic use of large portions of pumpkin or juice. It has a diuretic effect, which means that the more pumpkin you eat, the more water and salts are excreted from the body.

Limit the use of pumpkin should be people taking lithium preparations. The diuretic properties of the fetus provoke negative reactions.

The use of freshly squeezed juice and raw pumpkin pulp is contraindicated:

• In the acute phase of chronic diseases of the stomach, intestines.

• In the presence of stones in the gallbladder.

• Patients with severe diabetes mellitus.

• Hypotonic patients.

• In case of increased acidity of gastric juice.

• Children in the first 6 months of life.

How to choose the “right” pumpkin?

You can buy a pumpkin at any time of the year in supermarkets, farm shops, markets. When choosing a vegetable, pay attention to the main factors:

• Uniform coloration.

• No mechanical damage, dents, areas of darkening.

• Density – pumpkin should not be soft.

• Shape – oblong fruits are sweeter, but it is better to use seeds from round ones.

• Fragrant aroma.

• Slightly dried tail with no signs of decay.

The ideal storage temperature for pumpkins is no more than + 7 ° С. In a dry, cool place, it can be stored throughout the winter.

How do you eat pumpkin? 6 delicious meals

Pumpkin is an affordable, tasty, versatile product from which you can cook a lot of dishes:

• Dessert cream.

• Pancakes, pancakes.

• Sweet and snack pies.

• Porridge.

• Soups

• Vegetable stew.

1 roasted pumpkin

A wonderful autumn dish that will appeal to all family members. For cooking you will need:

• Half a ripe pumpkin.

• 100-150 g sour cream.

• 3 garlic cloves.

• Pepper.

• Koriandr.

• Salt.

• Dill.

• Parsley

• Vegetable oil.

The pumpkin is well washed, peeled, cut into small pieces. All manipulations are best done on a plastic cutting board that is easy to clean, as pumpkin pulp can stain surfaces.

Vegetable oil is heated in a frying pan over low heat. Pour the chopped pumpkin into the pan and fry until the pieces are browned. It should be said that the pumpkin during frying smells incredibly pleasant and tasty. While the pieces are browning, prepare the sauce.

Dill and parsley finely chopped with a knife, mixed with sour cream. Garlic, passed through a press or grated on a fine grater, is added to the sauce. The amount of coriander, pepper and salt is adjusted to taste. All ingredients are thoroughly mixed.

When the pieces of pumpkin are covered with an appetizing, fried crust, add sour cream sauce to the pan and add a little water (100-150 ml). The pumpkin is mixed, covered with a lid and stewed until the pieces become soft. Approximate cooking time is 10 minutes. After that, the lid is removed and the excess water is allowed to evaporate for another 5 minutes. As a result, a fragrant, spicy sauce remains, which perfectly complements the pumpkin pieces.

[Video] Fried pumpkin (the most delicious recipe):

3 Pumpkin in the microwave in 5 minutes

A very simple recipe for which you will need:

• 150-200 g of peeled pumpkin.

• 2-3 tablespoons of sugar or liquid honey.

The pumpkin is washed, peeled, seeds, fibrous pulp and cut into cubes. The prepared pumpkin is poured into a glass bowl suitable for use in a microwave oven. The dishes are placed in the microwave for 3 minutes. Any special mode does not need to be set, you can cook in the “Heating” mode.

After the set time, the pumpkin is taken out of the microwave oven and covered with sugar or honey is added, mixed. After that, the container is again placed in the oven for 3-4 minutes. The readiness of the pumpkin is checked with a fork, if it is soft, then it is ready. If the piece does not pierce well, then the pumpkin needs to be put in the microwave for a couple more minutes.

Juicy, soft, sweet and very fragrant pumpkin will appeal to the whole family and even children who do not like vegetables. It can be served as a light snack or dessert.

[Video] Pumpkin in the microwave in 5 minutes:

6 Pumpkin puree soup

Pumpkin puree soup is a dietary dish with exceptional properties. It is introduced into the diet as a component of complex therapy for:

• Detoxification.

• Normalization of visual function.

• Cleansing the liver, kidneys.

• Strengthening blood vessels.

• Stimulation of the work of the heart.

• Restoration of normal CNS function.

Nutritious, but low-calorie pumpkin puree soup helps restore metabolism, get rid of excess weight. The diuretic effect allows you to remove excess fluid, eliminate swelling. The laxative effect of the soup normalizes bowel function and relieves constipation. There are several main types of pumpkin puree soups – on beef, chicken broth or on vegetable broth.

If you want to lose weight, be sure to cook a diet puree soup according to a simple recipe:

• Finely chop the onion, fry in vegetable oil in a saucepan with a thick bottom.

• Add crushed apple, pumpkin pieces, 0,5 ml vegetable broth and 0,5 ml water.

• Salt, add spices.

• Bring the entire contents of the pan to a boil and simmer over low heat for about 30 minutes.

• Remove the pan from the heat, chop all the vegetables with a blender, add a little low-fat cream.

• Put the container on low heat, simmer without bringing to a boil for several minutes.

The light puree-like structure of the puree soup provides a feeling of satiety, compensates for the lack of nutrients and microelements. Pumpkin puree soup is quickly digested without being deposited in physiological depots.

American nutritionist Simon Reese recommends Wisdom Soup to his patients.

To prepare it at home, use the following tips:

• Cut 300 grams of beef pulp into small pieces, roll them in flour, fry in vegetable oil until golden brown and transfer to a saucepan.

• 1 large onion finely chopped, fry until golden brown.

• Grind 2 carrots, 3 potatoes, add 4 tablespoons of grated pumpkin and mix everything with fried onions.

• Pour 3 cups of water over vegetable mixture, add bay leaf, salt, pepper, parsley and poppy seeds.

• Simmer over low heat for about 1,5 hours.

• Grind the finished ingredients with a blender.

According to the observations of doctors, regular consumption of puree soup stimulates the function of the central nervous system, helps the synthesis of valuable amino acids. To enhance the positive healing effect, you can add nutmeg, turmeric or ginger to the dish.

[Video] Recipe from Chef Belkovich – PUMPKIN SOUP EVERYONE EATS: