Health benefits of eating pumpkin, including youthful appearance and weight loss
During fall, pumpkins become a popular household decoration. They are often carved, decorated and displayed for passers-by, but did you know they could be carved and put right on your dinner plate, too?
It can also be used in more savory dishes such as soup, pasta, hummus and more. And while pumpkin might be fall’s favorite fruit, it’s also packed with vitamins and minerals that can help improve your health.
Here are a few facts you should know about pumpkins before you stop by your local pumpkin patch or grocery store.
Pumpkins are a high source of vitamin A, which plays a significant role in eye health, according to experts.
Christie Gagnon, a registered dietitian at the food and lifestyle blog Hoorah to Health, told Fox News Digital that pumpkins are “packed full of vitamin A,” which is a nutrient that can “lower the risk of developing cataracts, a common cause of blindness.”
Vitamin A also helps promote “good eyesight,” according to Michelle Rauch, a registered dietitian at the Actors Fund Home, an assisted-living facility in Englewood, New Jersey.
Rauch added, “It plays an important part in forming and maintaining soft and skeletal muscle tissue, bone and mucus membranes.”
Additional compounds found in pumpkins that support vision health are lutein and zeaxanthin, two plant pigments that help to protect the eyes from harmful light waves, according to WebMD.
Vitamin A, lutein and zeaxanthin are beneficial to eye health, experts say.
An article reviewed by one of WebMD’s registered dietitians said a single cup of pumpkin can give a person 200% of their recommended daily vitamin A intake.
“If you get it, your eyes will thank you. Vitamin A helps you have healthy eyes and see more clearly, especially in low-light conditions,” the WebMD “Health Benefits of Pumpkin” article states.
Zinc, a mineral found in pumpkin, helps keep the retina healthy.
Aside from vitamin A, pumpkins are a high source of vitamin C, which is a nutrient that has long been associated with boosting immunity.
“Vitamin C aids neutrophils, a type of immune cell, in carrying out various immune functions such as getting rid of harmful bacteria,” Mackenzie Burgess told Fox News Digital. Burgess is a registered dietitian and recipe developer at Cheerful Choices, a food blog focused on offering simple meal solutions.
“With flu season just around the corner, consuming more pumpkin may be a great way to support your immune system,” Burgess told Fox News Digital.
Pumpkins are also full of vitamins D and E, beta-carotene, folate and iron.
Aside from vitamin A, pumpkins are a high source of vitamin C, which is a nutrient that has long been associated with immunity-boosting.
Mixing pumpkin into your diet can give you the immunity boost you need as the temperatures start to drop.
If you feel sickness coming on during fall, put together a warm pumpkin soup to help you feel better in no time.
“There are about 250 milligrams of potassium per half-cup serving of cooked pumpkin,” said Kimberly Baker, who is the director of the Clemson University Extension Food Systems and Safety Program.
“Potassium helps to contract muscles, regulates fluid and mineral balance within the cells of the body, and helps to maintain normal blood pressure.”
She added, “Males who are older than 19 should consume approximately 3,400 milligrams of potassium per day, and females older than 19 should consume 2,600 milligrams potassium per day unless told differently by a doctor or registered dietitian.”
Bananas aren’t the only fruit rich in potassium. Pumpkins can be a great source for the mineral.
A potassium fact sheet published by the National Institutes of Health matches Baker’s nutrition guidance for individuals who don’t have medical conditions with “impaired potassium excretion” or use medications that “impair potassium excretion.”
About 90% of potassium is excreted through urine and less than 10% is excreted through sweat or stool, according to a potassium-focused health report on Medscape, a website owned by WebMD that provides medical information to clinicians.
Pumpkins are 90% water. If you’re looking to shed a few pounds on a healthier diet, pumpkins could become your secret weapon, according to Burgess.
“Pumpkin is beneficial for weight loss because it’s largely made up of water, so it is low in calories while still containing many nutrients,” Burgess told Fox News Digital.
“Try adding more pumpkin to your diet by making pumpkin soup, pumpkin oatmeal, roasted pumpkin or pumpkin energy bites.”
If you’re looking to shed a few pounds on a healthier diet, pumpkins could become your secret weapon.
Including pumpkin in sugary treats like desserts and drinks is going to take away the weight-loss benefits.
Instead of a sugar-filled pumpkin pie, opt for a healthy roasted pumpkin — or a yummy pumpkin smoothie.
Pumpkins are high in fiber, which has a list of benefits, including satiating hunger and lowering “bad” cholesterol, called low-density lipoprotein, according to Rauch.
Other fiber-based benefits include improved bowel health and a lessened chance of blood sugar spiking, she said.
Since pumpkins are so high in fiber, they will help you stay full longer, which can help promote weight loss.
Pumpkins are high in fiber and antioxidants, which offer a list of health benefits, including improved bowel and skin health.
“Pumpkin is a good source of fiber and the pumpkin’s seeds which, in addition to being delicious, are rich in antioxidants and contain magnesium, iron, zinc and manganese,” Rauch told Fox News Digital.
“Canned pumpkin contains seven grams [of fiber] per cup.”
Pumpkins are loaded with antioxidants. These molecules help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals — unstable atoms.
Antioxidants neutralize these atoms, which in turn slows the aging process, according to Harvard Medical School.
Antioxidants have been connected to skin anti-aging.
One of the most prevalent antioxidants in pumpkin is beta-carotene, Baker told Fox News Digital.
In her words, “beta-carotene is an antioxidant, which can provide anti-inflammatory benefits [and] prevent aging in the skin.”
Are you tired of dealing with skin imperfections like wrinkles, blemishes, melasma, moles, and warts? Look no further! We have a natural and effective solution for you – banana peels combined with baking soda.
Why Banana Peels and Baking Soda?
Banana Peels: These peels are not just food waste! They are actually packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can nourish and revitalize your skin.
Scrape the inner white part of the banana peel with a spoon and collect about 2 tablespoons of the material.
In a small bowl, mix the banana peel paste with the baking soda until a smooth paste forms.
Application
Thoroughly clean and dry the area of skin where you intend to apply the mixture.
Apply the paste directly to the areas affected by wrinkles, blemishes, melasma, moles, or warts.
Leave the mixture on for about 15-20 minutes.
Rinse Off
Wash off the paste with lukewarm water. Be gentle to your skin while washing to avoid any irritation.
Moisturize
After drying your skin, apply a gentle moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and protected.
Tips for Best Results
Frequency of Use: To see significant improvements, use this treatment two to three times a week. Consistent application is key!
Patch Test: Before applying the mixture broadly, always perform a patch test on a small area of skin, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Sun Protection: Protect your skin from the sun, especially after using this treatment, as the skin may be more sensitive to UV rays.
Precautions
If you have moles or warts, it’s important to have them checked by a healthcare provider before trying any home treatments.
Baking soda can be drying and may irritate sensitive skin. If you experience any redness, itching, or discomfort, discontinue use and consult with a dermatologist.
Hot water, sea salt, chamomile, and apple cider vinegar can be used as a home remedy to relieve cramps, arthritis, tingling, osteoarthritis, pain, and inflammation. Each ingredient has special qualities that help to alleviate discomfort and promote relaxation. Here’s how these ingredients operate together and how to use them efficiently.
2. Sea Salt: Contains minerals such as magnesium and potassium, which can help reduce edema and relax muscular contractions.
3. Chamomile: Chamomile is known for its anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate pain and inflammation. It’s also a natural relaxant that can reduce muscle spasms and improve sleep.
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4. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV): Known for its anti-inflammatory effects, ACV can help relieve joint pain and stiffness by dissolving acidic crystals in the joints and promoting mineral absorption.
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How to Prepare the Remedy
Here’s a simple recipe for making a soothing bath using these materials, which can be especially useful for soaking affected areas such as the hands, feet, or even the entire body if general pain treatment is required.
Ingredients
2 cups of Epsom salt or sea salt
1 cup of apple cider vinegar.
A handful of chamomile flowers (or 3–4 chamomile tea bags)
A tub full of hot water
Instructions
1. Prepare the Bath:
Fill your bathtub with hot water that is at a suitable temperature for soaking without producing burns or discomfort.
2. Add the Ingredients:
Dissolve the Epsom salt or sea salt in the bathtub.
Allow the chamomile flowers or tea bags to soak in the bath water for about 10 minutes before entering (you can do this while the tub fills).
3. Soak:
Soak in the bath for at least 20 to 30 minutes. Allow the combination to relax your muscles and joints. Instead of soaking the entire bathtub, you can use a basin to soak only the localized areas, such as your hands or feet.
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4. Rinse Off:
After soaking, rinse with fresh water if necessary, especially if the vinegar scent is strong or your skin is sensitive to extended salt exposure.
5. Repeat:
Repeat this bath 2-3 times each week to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
Precautions
Always check the temperature of the bath to avoid burns.
Individuals with sensitive skin should test their skin’s reaction to apple cider vinegar in a tiny area before fully soaking in it.
People with chronic health conditions or who are pregnant should consult a doctor before beginning any new treatment plan.
Conclusion
This cure addresses a variety of muscular and joint pain complaints by combining the natural medicinal elements of hot water, sea salt, chamomile, and apple cider vinegar. It’s a natural, cost-effective, and calming way to alleviate pain from illnesses such as arthritis and osteoarthritis.
Cockroaches are among the most despised household pests, and with good cause. While chemical remedies such as insecticides provide a quick remedy, they frequently pose health hazards to humans and pets, as well as significant environmental damage. If you’re tired of using chemical sprays to keep pests at bay, it’s time to look into safer, natural options.
Essential oils such as peppermint, eucalyptus, and tea tree oil are proven to repel cockroaches. Combine a few drops of your preferred oil with water and spray it in areas where cockroaches are likely to hide, such as under sinks, along baseboards, and around garbage cans.
Bay Leaves
Bay leaves are a simple and effective treatment. Cockroaches loathe the fragrance of bay leaves, thus they are an effective natural deterrent. Crush a few leaves and arrange them in corners, cabinets, or near entryways. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>
Diatomaceous Earth (food grade)
Diatomaceous earth is a natural powder derived from fossilized algae. When cockroaches come into touch with it, the powder destroys their exoskeleton, causing dehydration and death. Sprinkle a small layer in areas where you suspect cockroach activity, taking care not to inhale the fine particles.
Citrus peels
Cockroaches detest the aroma of citrus. Place leftover lemon, lime, or orange peels in areas prone to cockroach activity. Alternatively, clean surfaces with a citrus-infused water solution.
Baking Soda and Sugar Trap
This DIY trap is a simple and effective technique to get rid of cockroaches. Combine equal parts baking soda and sugar, and distribute small amounts in shallow containers near cockroach hotspots. The sugar attracts the cockroaches, while the baking soda interacts with their stomach acid, resulting in their death.
