August 28, 2023

The Scary Good Health Benefits of Pumpkin

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The Scary Good Health Benefits of Pumpkin

Take a closer look at some of the health benefits of pumpkin, its history, and how you can include it in your daily routine.

What comes to mind when you think of pumpkins? For many people, images of jack-o-lanterns, pumpkin pies, and pumpkin spice lattes might fill their minds. (Eeek, we can’t wait until that first fall leaf hits the ground!) However, there is much more to this unique food than just its fall-flavored treats or its use as a holiday decoration for your front stoop.

While some might consider pumpkin to be a vegetable, pumpkin is technically a fruit. We know some people will find that pretty surprising. In fact, it’s considered to be a winter squash in the fruit family known as Cucurbitaceae, which also includes melons and cucumbers. Aside from their relevance in the fall months, pumpkins offer numerous health benefits when incorporated into your diet. With the right sources, you can enjoy these advantages throughout the year.

But we get it — changing up your diet to include more nutritious foods can be challenging. That’s why we make it easy at Clean Juice with fresh smoothies, cold-pressed juices, bowls, and so much more delivered right to your door. Find your nearest Clean Juice and place your order today to get some more superfoods in your life! This is your sign to do so.

Back to pumpkin. Never considered it to be a superfood? After you finish this read, you might think otherwise. Let’s take a closer look at some of the health benefits of pumpkin, its history, and how you can include it in your daily routine.

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The Historical Significance of Pumpkin

Pumpkins and other similar squash were considered to be staples in the Native American diet.

According to scientists, pumpkin likely originated as early as 7000 B.C. in North America. Some of the oldest known seeds were found in Mexico and likely date back to that early era.

Pumpkins and other similar squash were considered to be staples in the Native American diet. In fact, we know today that many Native American communities used specific planting techniques using the fertile soil alongside rivers to grow the healthiest, juiciest squash.

While pumpkin has been a part of many North American diets historically as well as today, one of the most significant uses of the fruit doesn’t involve eating it at all. The tradition of carving jack-o-lanterns began in Ireland, where people would carve faces into other foods such as turnips or potatoes.

Once they realized that pumpkins were much easier to carve because of their hollow interior, jack-o-lanterns carved into pumpkins became far more common. This tradition is based on the myth of Stingy Jack, a trickster who loves to play pranks. Over time, this practice became closely linked with the celebration of Halloween, an ancient Celtic holiday that has spread worldwide for many generations since its inception. Make sure to use this interesting fact at your next holiday get-together!

Aside from its close link to Halloween, pumpkin is a very popular flavor for a variety of dishes and delicacies during the autumn season. Pumpkin pie is considered to be a staple of many Thanksgiving celebrations, and a lot of people enjoy this dessert on Christmas Day as well. (Definitely Team Pumpkin Pie over here at Clean Juice, although Pecan comes in as a close second.)

Additionally, the popularity of the pumpkin spice latte can’t be overstated. This decadent twist on the classic latte includes sweetened pumpkin syrup and a variety of spices like pumpkin spice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. At this point, nearly every major coffee chain offers its unique take on the pumpkin spice latte when autumn rolls around. We are sure you have seen a meme or two about pumpkin spice while scrolling through social media. And if you’re wanting to stay on trend, might we suggest our “The Pumpkin One with Cold Brew.” It’s essentially an organic PSL in smoothie form and for all those that think fall drinks come too early, here’s your solution! A refreshing, cold version without all of the added artificial sweeteners and processed sugar. A PSL option that is good for you.

Health Benefits of Pumpkin

Pumpkin may be delicious, but what can it do for your health? Here are a few of the top health benefits of pumpkin and why this superfood should be a staple in your diet.

Supports a Healthy Heart

Pumpkins are rich in many nutrients, but one of the most plentiful is potassium. This mineral, in particular, is known to help keep blood pressure regulated when you consume it each day. Additionally, pumpkin also contains other heart-healthy nutrients, including antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber.

Aids in Weight Loss

If you’re currently on a weight loss journey, don’t automatically assume that your favorite pumpkin-flavored foods and drinks will be off the table. This fruit is usually associated with decadent treats like pie, muffins, and lattes, which all contain added sugar. However, without the added ingredients, pumpkin itself is very low in calories.

As long as you take in the health benefits of pumpkin the smart way, you can still enjoy the delicious flavors of fall without compromising your weight loss goal. We recommend our pumpkin bowls, smoothies, and other offerings at Clean Juice when it comes to enjoying pumpkin the healthy way. Don’t worry — the delicious taste you crave will still be present and accounted for but without the processed sugar and additives.

May Reduce Bladder Symptoms

Ongoing research indicates that the consumption of pumpkin seeds may help alleviate or reduce urinary frequency, sudden urges, and nocturia. Additionally, the fruit is sometimes used to help with bladder irritation and to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) symptoms.

Helps Improve Eyesight

Of the many nutrients present in pumpkin, one of the most prominent is beta-carotene.

Of the many nutrients present in pumpkin, one of the most prominent is beta-carotene. This antioxidant gets turned into vitamin A by your body through natural processes, which is an essential vitamin for many bodily functions.

Vitamin A is extremely important for proper eyesight. That’s why consuming pumpkin could be linked to better vision. Vitamin A helps to support cornea and retina health. Additionally, pumpkin also contains vitamin C, which can reduce your likelihood of developing cataracts later in life.

May Reduce Cancer Risk

The vitamin A present in pumpkins may help support healthy eyesight, but this vitamin is also known for other benefits. In fact, vitamin A is known as a cancer-fighting compound and can help reduce your risk for multiple types of cancer, including lung cancer and prostate cancer.

Another cancer-fighting element of pumpkin is the presence of carotenoids, which is an antioxidant that can help to prevent a variety of diseases. Carotenoids are linked to reduced risk of throat, stomach, pancreatic, and breast cancers.

Supports Smooth Digestion

When it comes to a healthy digestive tract, dietary fiber is one of the most essential compounds you can include in your diet. Pumpkin is known for its high levels of dietary fiber per serving, making it a great way to support healthy digestion. Just one cup of cooked pulp contains a whopping seven grams of fiber, which can help support regular bowel movements, reduce bloating, and balance the microbiome in the gut.

Other Ways to Use the Health Benefits of Pumpkin

When it comes to the health benefits of pumpkin in your diet, the list can go on and on. However, did you know that you can use pumpkins to benefit your health in other ways?

The fruit actually makes a highly effective ingredient in many skin care products. Additionally, pumpkins can be beneficial beyond just the pulp or the seeds. There are a variety of ways to use the entire fruit and truly make the most of this superfood.

Pumpkin Skin Care

Pumpkin actually makes a highly effective ingredient in many skin care products.

From the pulp to the seeds, pumpkin is packed with nutrients such as vitamins, magnesium, beta-carotene, omega-3 fatty acids, and more. Consuming these nutrients can be very beneficial for your overall health, but when they are present in skin care products, they can be particularly helpful for the health of your skin.

Skin care products that include pumpkin in their ingredients are known to support anti-aging, reverse damage from UV rays, and treat breakouts. In fact, some of the properties present in pumpkin might even help to reduce the appearance of acne scarring. If you’re looking for a new way to revitalize your skin care routine, look for pumpkin on the label of your next product!

Using the Whole Pumpkin

The health benefits of pumpkin can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, whether you purchase pumpkin puree in a can, order a fresh smoothie or refresher from Clean Juice, or try out a pumpkin-based skin care product. If you choose to purchase a whole pumpkin, however, make sure you put every part to use with these helpful tips.

You can use the pulp in all kinds of tasty recipes, from healthy baked goods to soups. Separate the seeds and roast them with olive oil and seasonings for a tasty, protein-rich snack. If you want to grow your own pumpkins, you can save some seeds to plant in late summer.

Once you’ve removed all the pulp and seeds from your pumpkin, you’ll be left with the rind. While this part of the pumpkin doesn’t have much flavor, it makes a perfect snack for the wildlife in your area! Leave pieces of the pumpkin rind near the back of your yard or a nearby forested area to help keep your local wildlife healthy and fed.

All About Pumpkin: Taste, Texture, and Ways to Enjoy

Many of the nutrients and health benefits of pumpkin are located within the pulp.

There are two major parts of the pumpkin that can be consumed: the pulp and the seeds. The pulp makes up the inside of the the fruit, and it’s what most people think of when they think of the classic pumpkin taste. The flavor is similar to sweet potato but with notes of nuttiness and sweetness.

Pumpkin pulp is used for pies and other desserts, as well as stews, chilis, curries, and more. Additionally, many of the nutrients and health benefits of pumpkin are located within the pulp. The pulp is rarely consumed raw, but when you use it in its whole form in a recipe, it tends to have a similar texture to cooked squash: crunchy and firm on the outside and soft and slightly mushy on the inside.

Pumpkin seeds also contain many health-boosting nutrients. The most popular way to prepare the seeds is to roast them with oil and seasonings, which gives them a pleasant crunchy texture and savory flavor. Pumpkin seeds are a convenient, healthy snack that you can prepare at home with just a few easy steps.

At Clean Juice, we recognize the incredible health benefits of pumpkin and its unique addition to the flavor palate of many dishes. That’s why we’ve incorporated pumpkin into a variety of our smoothies, salads, and bowls to make them extra nutritious and delicious!

There’s nothing more refreshing than a smoothie, especially during the hot summer months. Our smoothie, The Pumpkin One, includes pumpkin, banana, and almond milk blended with vanilla and pumpkin pie spice, making it the perfect way to satisfy your pumpkin pie craving any time of year. For a little more caffeine, try “The Pumpkin One with Cold Brew.” It’s an extra tasty pick-me-up and the combination of coffee and pumpkin can’t be beat!

If you want something lighter than a smoothie but just as refreshing, the Apple Cider One is a popular refresher on our menu that features all the best fall flavors. This tasty beverage is a mixture of apple juice, banana, cinnamon, and maple syrup.

Our açaí bowls pack a nutritious and flavorful punch. If you love the taste of fall, our pumpkin açaí bowls are the perfect way to enjoy them with your health in mind.
The Apple Crisp Bowl is made with an apple juice base blended with banana, almond butter, vanilla, date paste, and cinnamon. Then, it’s topped with sliced apple, granola, cinnamon, and a drizzle of your choice. The Fall Bowl also has a pumpkin base, but instead of apple juice, the pumpkin is blended with banana. This bowl is topped with banana, granola, pumpkin seeds, and your choice of drizzle.

Craving something more savory? The Autumn Bowl is sure to satisfy. It begins with a spring mix base topped with pumpkin seeds, apple slices, feta, walnuts, and pumpkin hummus. Our Apple Pie Toast may be more sweet than savory, but it packs a crunchy texture very different from our other offerings. Once you choose your favorite bread, we add almond butter, apple, cacao nibs, honey, and cinnamon.

Ready to explore all of our pumpkin drinks, bowls, eats, and everything else on the Clean Juice menu? Find your nearest Clean Juice and place your order today!

Include the Health Benefits of Pumpkin in Your Routine With Clean Juice

With Clean Juice, you don’t have to wait until Thanksgiving to enjoy your favorite fall flavors. Our varied menu of pumpkin-based goodies makes it easy to take full advantage of the health benefits of this fruit with none of the added sugar or artificial ingredients. Find your nearest Clean Juice today to get started on your delicious health journey!

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Disclaimer: The information presented here is for educational purposes only and is in no way intended as a substitute for medical counseling. Consult your doctor before using any health treatment, including natural remedies, and tell your doctor if you have a serious medical condition or are taking any medications.

If you’re unsure whether pumpkin would be a healthy addition to your wellness routine, ask your doctor if any of your health details might make pumpkin unsafe for you.

 

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