Health Benefits of Pumpkin

Pumpkins contain key vitamins that boost your immune system: vitamin A, which benefits healthy skin, tissues and eyes, as well as vitamin C and antioxidants which promote healthy immunity. The pumpkin seeds are one of the best plant sources of zinc, as well as an excellent source of good fats and protein.  

During this time of year, having a healthy digestive system is also key when you want to prepare for some healthy winter months ahead. Pumpkins are high in fiber, which is very beneficial for constipation and for diarrhea. Pet owners have sometimes even added pumpkin to their dog’s food to aid in a healthy gut. 

So instead of only enjoying the commercial-ness of pumpkins this season with snacks and coffees, try to keep it simple by adding some raw pumpkin to your soups and smoothies, and taking advantage of the tasty seeds, either raw, or roast them at home with a little sea salt.  

To sum it up, you cannot go wrong with eating pumpkin! Here is a simple cookie recipe that uses the pumpkin and the seeds:

Double Pumpkin Cookies

• 2 1/2 cups organic oats

• 1 cup cooked pumpkin

• ½ cup maple syrup

• 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

• 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract

• 1 tbs pumpkin seeds roasted

• ¼ cup dark chocolate chips

Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees. Mix all ingredients in a bowl to form a dough.  Roll in to cookie shapes. Place cookies on greased pan and bake for 10 minutes.