Pumpkins are not just a favorite fall decoration; they also make an appearance on many an autumn menu. That is good news for your taste buds and great news for your eyes. Pumpkins are rich in zinc, vitamin C, vitamin A, lutein, and zeaxanthin, making them a treat for your vision and overall health.
That may all sound great, but what exactly do those vitamins and minerals do for your eyes?
In summary, eating pumpkin can provide your eyes with a diverse array of benefits.
Now before you run off to get yourself a pumpkin spice latte or help yourself to an extra-large piece of pumpkin pie, it is important to note that not all pumpkin foods are created equal. A lot of fall favorites – pumpkin pies, cakes, and breads – are full of sugar and do not necessarily contain that much pumpkin. Some pumpkin spice lattes do not have pumpkin in them at all. The ones that do typically only contain trace amounts. Most of the pumpkin spice flavor comes from the cinnamon and nutmeg, not from the pumpkin. These fall treats are tasty and spread fall cheer, but they should be consumed in moderation.
Luckily there are plenty of healthy ways to satisfy your pumpkin palate. Baked pumpkin seeds make a great snack and can be an excellent substitute for popcorn or potato chips. Instead of reaching for a pumpkin muffin for breakfast or dessert, consider making a pumpkin smoothie. If you want something to warm you up on a cold autumn night, pumpkin soup or roasted pumpkin can serve as either a main course or side dish.
We hope you enjoy the fall season and try a new pumpkin dish or two in the process. See below for a couple of recipe suggestions.
Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash
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