Fall is here, which means cooler weather, back to school, and…pumpkins!
Did you know that pumpkins are actually great for you? It’s true! They are loaded with carotenoids, the pigments responsible for the pumpkin’s deep, rich orange color, which is also found in other vegetables like winter squash and sweet potatoes.
Deep orange-colored foods also contain high amounts of beta carotene, a key nutrient that becomes vitamin A. Powerful properties of beta carotene include:
- antioxidants that help protect body cells from damage
- protection against cancer and heart disease
- strengthening of immune system
- promotion of healthy vision, bones, and skin
How can you work pumpkins into your healthy diet without consuming lots of sugary pumpkin pie? Stay tuned, and we’ll tell you!