Its rare that a food can benefit multiple areas of your health. And the ones that can? Well, those are considered superfoods. These are my favorite health benefits of pumpkin and why I think pumpkin should become a staple in your pantry.

1. It boosts your gut health

Rich in dietary fiber - at approximately 2.7 grams per cup -  pumpkin can help promote both a healthy gut microbiome since fiber acts as a prebiotic that nourishes the beneficial bacteria already residing in your gut so that it can thrive and multiply. These bacteria also work to ferment the soluble fiber in pumpkins to produce short-chain fatty acids like butyrate, which can reduce any inflammation happening in your gut. And if you need a little help going number 2, fiber adds bulk to your stool so that things can keep moving smoothly.

2. It is a surprising source of protein

Pumpkin seeds usually get overlooked this time of year for lacking that delicious PSL flavor, but they are a part that you definitely shouldn’t sleep on. Containing 12 grams of protein per cup, pumpkin seeds are considered a complete plant protein due to their amino acid content. And did I mention that they are also high in fiber and healthy fats? Definitely a superfood in my book!

3. It is high in health-protecting antioxidants

Considered the "building blocks of life", your cells ensure all systems of your body function properly. Antioxidants are compounds that fight (1) against free radical damage caused by factors like toxins, poor diet, and stress that can damage your cells and result in everything from poor vision and sun damage to chronic diseases like heart problems and cancer.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture, (2) one cup of cooked pumpkin contains multiple antioxidants including alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, Vitamins A, E, and C, and lutein and zeaxanthin which are known for their next-level ability to support eye health.

4. It can help strengthen your immune system

Pumpkins can play a significant role in strengthening your immune system, thanks to their rich nutrient profile, most notably vitamin A, vitamin C, and zinc.

• Vitamin A: Pumpkins are loaded with Vitamin A and the precursor to Vitamin A - beta-carotene. Studies have shown that Vitamin A is necessary for a healthy immune system, going as far to classify (3) deficiencies as an immunodeficiency disorder.
• Vitamin C: This immune-boosting vitamin encourages white blood cell production - the defense mechanisms of your immune system - and can even reduce (4) cold symptoms by up to 30 percent.
• Zinc: This micronutrient is also responsible for producing white blood cells and combining it with Vitamin C can further increase Vitamin C’s immune-boosting benefits.

Plus, the same antioxidant capabilities of pumpkins we mentioned earlier, further support immune system resilience by fighting oxidative stress and inflammation.

5. It can help you maintain a healthy weight

Not only can the fiber content of pumpkins curb your cravings by helping you feel full and satiated, it is relatively low in calories at only 50 per cup since it is technically 94% water. Everything else? Pure superfood nutrients!

Protect Your Gut Health Today!!