WHAT IS NUTRITIONAL CONTENT OF PUMPKIN?

Pumpkin is rich in minerals such as fiber, calcium, potassium, phytosterols, polyunsaturated fatty acids, antioxidants such as carotenoid and tocopherol, trace elements such as zinc and its sodium content is quite low.

Pumpkin, also known as winter squash, is one of the best sources of beta carotene, a vitamin A precursor. Even 100 grams of it can meet more than your daily vitamin A needs. It also contains approximately 3 mg of omega-3 fatty acids per 100 grams.

Pumpkin is a good source of vitamin A. Vitamin A, one of the fat-soluble vitamins; When there is enough oil in the environment, it is absorbed by 80%. It helps the synthesis of mucus secretion that protects the epithelial tissue from drying out, hardening and degeneration. This tissue is found in the upper layer of the skin covering our body, nose, mouth, respiratory, and digestive system. When it is healthy, it prevents the entry of bacteria into the body. In addition, vitamin A, which is very useful for eye health, provides vision in the dark. It also plays a role in supporting bone growth, reproductive function, and the overall growth process.

PUMPKIN’S BENEFİTS

· Diabetes is a very common disease today with many complications. Pumpkin plays a role as an antidiabetic with the bioactive ingredients it contains. In a study with rats, consumption of pumpkin keeps glucose levels under control by reducing the need for insulin, due to the high content of polysaccharide in pumpkin, the concentration used to prevent Type 2 diabetes in alloxan-induced diabetic rats.

However, protein-bound polysaccharides from pumpkin increase glucose tolerance by lowering blood glucose levels. It has been stated that the active polysaccharides contained in it can significantly increase serum insulin levels, reduce blood glucose levels, improve glucose tolerance, and therefore can be developed as a new antidiabetic agent.

· It has been observed to be more effective than the drug. Pectin Carotenoids, which give pumpkin its red color and have many health benefits, hold free radicals by showing antioxidant activity. In this way, it has protective properties against many types of cancer, cardiovascular diseases.

· Lycopene is a carotenoid and serum lycopene level has been determined to be associated with neurological diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. High lycopene level shows protective properties against these diseases.

· At the same time, there is lycopene in the retina and lens of the eye, and it has been determined that carotenoids have a great role in preventing cataract formation against oxidative damage due to light.

· There is approximately 9 mg of vitamin C in 100 grams of pumpkin, and this meets 35% of the daily vitamin C requirement of a person. Vitamin C contributes to the strengthening of immunity and easier absorption of iron.

· At the same time, it supports the collagen production of the skin and provides a younger and healthier appearance. Pumpkin is an essential source of potassium that maintains electrolyte balance, which is essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system and muscles.

· Potassium also protects cardiovascular health and lowers blood pressure.