9 reasons to eat pumpkin more often
On the tables of our compatriots, pumpkin appears relatively rarely. Many Russian housewives do not even know what dishes can be prepared from it. Meanwhile, pumpkin is so healthy that it deserves daily consumption. We will tell you about the healing and nutritional qualities of this vegetable today.
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Beneficial effect on skin and hair
Pumpkin pulp contains vitamins A and C. The first of them regulates the process of sebum production, while the second has an antiseptic and tightening effect. This is why the vegetable is ideal as a base for nourishing and anti-aging masks. Even a simple rub on your face with a slice of raw pumpkin improves the condition of the skin, making it smooth and silky.
To combat acne and oily sheen, you can prepare a mask of fresh pumpkin pulp, honey and egg yolk, ground into a gruel. Dry skin will soften if you periodically apply a mixture of boiled pumpkin with olive or peach oil. Masks of pumpkin pulp are made every other day, the course consists of 20 procedures.
In cosmetology, pumpkin seeds are also used. They are rich in substances that help brighten the skin. To get rid of age spots and freckles, a mask of raw seeds, honey, lemon juice and sour milk pounded into gruel is suitable. An emulsion containing water and grated pumpkin seeds is rubbed into the scalp to accelerate hair growth and improve hair condition.
Stimulating libido
It is not for nothing that pumpkin has been considered an aphrodisiac since ancient times: its regular use really has a beneficial effect on the human reproductive system. Its effect is most clearly manifested in relation to the male intimate sphere. Pumpkin seeds are rich in zinc, which normalizes prostate function and increases sperm production. The complex of substances contained in the pumpkin pulp plays a leading role in the production of sex hormones and the metabolism of vitamin E, which is necessary for the maintenance of reproductive function.
An interesting study was conducted by American scientists: with the help of special devices, they determined with which aromas the appearance of the strongest sex in the stronger sex is associated. According to the results of the experiments, the smell of pumpkin turned out to be the undisputed leader: it was he who significantly increased the libido in the subjects.
Protection of blood vessels and brain
Like all orange-colored fruits and vegetables, pumpkin is rich in carotenoids. It contains record amounts of alpha and beta carotene, as well as powerful antioxidants (zeaxanthin and lutein). These substances help maintain brain health and slow down the aging process. In addition, pumpkin consumption lowers blood cholesterol levels, and hence the likelihood of sclerotic plaques.
Pumpkin seeds contain iron compounds and amino acids, which have a beneficial effect on vascular tone.
Help with nausea
Pumpkin seeds help fight nausea. In folk medicine, they have been used since ancient times to improve the well-being of pregnant women suffering from toxicosis.
Easing menopause symptoms
Pumpkin seeds and vegetable pulp contain phytoestrogens (substances that act similarly to female sex hormones). Therefore, pumpkin is extremely useful for the fair sex who have reached the age of menopause. Regular use of this product reduces the unpleasant manifestations of climacteric syndrome, helps to maintain visual attractiveness and maintain the overall tone of the body.
Protection against diabetes and obesity
Pumpkin pulp is low in calories (only 22 kcal per 100 g). Varieties containing a moderate amount of sugars are recommended for dietary nutrition for obesity and diabetes. Boiled or baked pumpkin dishes are suitable for snacks when it is difficult for a person to go without food in the evenings.
Pumpkin seeds help normalize blood sugar levels. As with all seeds, the amount of fat in them is high, but with moderate consumption, the figure will not be harmed.
Fight intestinal parasites
Gruel made from pumpkin seeds is a popular anthelmintic agent. It acts gently, successfully expelling intestinal parasites from the body.
Until recently, the only inconvenience complicating the use of the drug was the need to clean the seeds from the top skin. However, today varieties of gymnosperms have already been bred that are devoid of this drawback.
Improved mood
Pumpkin seeds and pulp contain substances that increase the production of serotonin. Eating these foods helps to lift your mood and help you cope with stressful situations more easily. In addition, pumpkin is rich in magnesium and tryptophan, which have a beneficial effect on the nervous system and improve sleep quality.
Protecting the stomach, kidneys and liver
Pumpkin is a valuable dietary product. Its pulp has an almost neutral reaction (pH), which makes it possible to use it in case of disturbances in the acidity of gastric juice. A large amount of fiber, useful for the body, helps to normalize the process of digesting food and improve bowel function.
In addition, pumpkin pulp (especially when baked) is a mild choleretic and diuretic.
Pumpkin is very useful for people who have reached old age. It has a decongestant, anti-sclerotic and tonic effect, prevents congestion in tissues, and saves from chronic constipation. Carotenoids, which are rich in pulp, prevent visual acuity impairment.
Recent studies have shown that pumpkin contains substances that can fight the pathogen of tuberculosis. There is also evidence of the anticancer activity of the product.
The pumpkin is perfectly stored: whole fruits lie at room temperature from autumn to spring, without losing their nutritional and medicinal properties. You can cook dishes for every taste from pumpkin, and freshly squeezed juice is recommended to be consumed daily: in terms of its useful qualities, it has practically no competitors.
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Maria Kulkes Medical journalist About the author
Education: First Moscow State Medical University named after I. M. Sechenov, specialty "General Medicine".
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