October 21, 2022

It’s pumpkin season and when most people think about pumpkins, they probably envision a warm pumpkin spice latte. However, besides this massive marketing of pumpkins, there’s so much more worth highlighting in its overall health benefits. 

Not only are pumpkins filling, keeping you feeling full for longer periods of time, they are packed with nutrients. Let’s dive into some of these major benefits to your health. 

Pumpkin: An Anti-inflammatory Superfood

Pumpkins are considered a major superfood and believe it or not, they’re actually an exceptional anti-inflammatory food. They are rich in carotenoids, especially in lutein, alpha-carotene and beta-carotene, along with other vitamins and minerals. These bioactive compounds actually play a critical role in our bodies. The antioxidant properties protect our body from oxidative damage, which may lead to degenerative diseases. Pumpkins help fight off the harmful effects of inflammation. 

Improved Gut Health

Proper gut health is extremely important. It helps your body digest the foods you eat, absorb nutrients, and function more efficiently in every possible way. If there is an imbalance in your gut biome, your immune system is compromised which could lead to hormonal problems and other health issues. Thankfully, pumpkins are full of fiber and other gut-healthy promoting qualities. 

Helps Regulate Blood Sugar Levels

Pumpkins contain the compounds, trigonelline and nicotinic acid, which help your body regulate insulin. This improves your blood sugar levels, helping relieve symptoms of Type 2 diabetes. Not only does your blood sugar see improvement when eating more pumpkins, but also your heart. Pumpkins are known to improve triglyceride levels, reducing the risk of heart disease while lowering blood pressure.

Prevents Cancer

Pumpkins are a wonderful food to incorporate to help reduce your risk of cancer. Several large population studies have found that those who have higher levels of carotenoids, including beta-carotene, which is found in abundance in pumpkins, have a lower risk for certain cancers including: lung cancer, skin cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, etc. 

Even pumpkin seed extract has been shown to potentially inhibit the growth of cancer cells. So next time you’re indulging in that pumpkin pie, think about how you’re also reducing your risk for cancer!.

Supports Skin Health

Pumpkins are especially rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, which promote positive skin complexion by creating a protective barrier to UV damage from the sun. They also help improve your skin’s tone, texture and overall appearance. Pumpkins are a rich source of vitamin A, C and E, which allow your skin to remain well-nourished and protected against oxidative stress.

Pumpkins are for Every Time of the Year

Don’t limit your pumpkin intake to one season of the year, take advantage of the many benefits all year round. There are many canned pumpkin options, pumpkin seeds and seed oils to get your superfood intake any time of year. Your body and mood will improve with  this simple change to your diet.

Peddler’s Son is Arizona’s Top-Quality Food Supplier

Peddler’s Son is the go-to farm-fresh food supplier for Arizona restaurants, hospitals, schools and more. Family-owned and operated since 1988, Peddler’s Son brings you honest pricing, unparalleled customer service and farm-fresh produce every day. 

We believe in quality and that’s what you’ll get when you rely on us to deliver high-value foods for your favorite dishes. We put our food quality and reliable delivery service first, along with the customers we serve all across the state. 
Do you need reliable, quality fresh foods for your restaurant, school or business? We can help! Contact us today to see how we can get you the food you need delivered fresh and on time!