Is it possible to eat too much pumpkin

Here, we examine the many benefits of pumpkins, provide a nutritional breakdown, and look at ways to include pumpkin in a healthful diet. Pumpkin has a range of fantastic benefits, including being one of the best-known sources of beta carotene. Beta carotene is a powerful antioxidant that gives orange vegetables and fruits their vibrant color. The body converts any ingested beta carotene into vitamin A. Consuming foods with high volumes of beta carotene may have the following benefits :.

Many studies have suggested that eating more plant foods, such as pumpkin, decreases the risk of obesity and overall mortality.

It can also help a person avoid diabetes and heart disease, promote a healthy complexion and hair, increase energy, and a healthy body mass index BMI. Eating pumpkin is good for the heart. The fiber, potassium , and vitamin C content in pumpkin all support heart health. Results of a study of 2, participants suggested that consuming enough potassium may be almost as important as decreasing sodium in the treatment of high blood pressure.

High blood pressure is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease CVD. Typically, reducing sodium intake involves eating meals that contain little or no salt. More research is necessary to confirm the effects of pumpkin consumption on stroke and CVD risk.

A study suggests a positive relationship between a diet rich in beta carotene and tumor suppression in prostate cancer. The results of a cross-sectional study also show that beta carotene slowed the development of colon cancer in a Japanese population. A study shows that a combination of two plant extracts, one of which was pumpkin polysaccharides, brought down blood sugar levels in mice.

Although the study did not involve humans, the research shows some potential for these plant compounds to limit type 2 diabetes. Due to their impact on blood sugar, scientists may be able to rework them into an antidiabetic medication, though further studies are necessary.

Here, learn more about diabetes. Here are 6 recipes to try:. For example, you could make a DIY face mask using pumpkin and a few kitchen staples.

Pumpkin may also help if your dog is dealing with diarrhea. Start small though to see how your pup reacts and be sure to check with your vet first to make sure this is a safe remedy for your furry companion.

Pumpkins are everywhere in the fall, and they make a nutritious addition to your meals, too. Pumpkin is rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium, and the seeds offer fiber and magnesium.

Enjoy it roasted or pureed and added into stews and baked goods. Just beware of pumpkin spice treats — they tend to be overly sweetened and devoid of real pumpkin. By subscribing you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Health Topics. Health Tools. Reviewed: October 29, Medically Reviewed. Pumpkins are a great source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium.

Pumpkin seeds are rich in fiber and magnesium and may help prevent breast cancer. Are there any side effects to eating pumpkins and are they poisonous? Are pumpkins a superfood? Yes, pumpkins have superfood qualities, like all fruits and vegetables. Pumpkins have vitamin A, antioxidants, and fiber — all of which make them a nutritious option.

Cut the pumpkin in half, remove the seeds, drizzle with oil, and sprinkle with salt. Place flesh-side down on parchment paper, pierce with a fork, and bake at degrees Fahrenheit for 45 to 50 minutes.

You can eat it like that or blend the pumpkin into a puree and add to stews, soups, or oats. What should I do with pumpkin seeds? Scoop them out of the pumpkin and rinse them in water to separate from the pulp.

Roast the seeds on a cookie sheet at degrees for 15 to 20 minutes. Season with salt and snack on them on their own or sprinkle on top of a salad. Preventing Diabetes Complications Another prior study in animals found taking a flax and pumpkin powder seed mixture helped prevent diabetes complications.

Protecting Eye Heath Pumpkin is a good source of lutein and zeaxanthin, which are two antioxidants that have been shown to offer a protective factor against age-related macular degeneration , according to a February study published in Nutrients. How To Cut It: Pumpkin. This fall fruit is good for more than just eating. Similarly, many other human studies have found that individuals with higher intakes of carotenoids have lower risks of throat, pancreas, breast and other cancers 19 , 20 , For instance, studies have shown that people with higher potassium intakes appear to have lower blood pressure and a reduced risk of strokes — two risk factors for heart disease 22 , When LDL cholesterol particles oxidize, they can clump along the walls of blood vessels, which can restrict your vessels and raise your risk of heart disease 24 , Pumpkins are loaded with nutrients that are great for your skin.

Studies show that carotenoids like beta-carotene can act as a natural sunblock Once ingested, carotenoids are transported to various organs including your skin.

Here, they help protect skin cells against damage from harmful UV rays 5. Pumpkin is also high in vitamin C, which is essential for healthy skin. Your body needs this vitamin to make collagen , a protein that keeps your skin strong and healthy Its sweet flavor makes it a popular ingredient in dishes like custards, pies and pancakes.

However, it works just as well in savory dishes such as roasted vegetables, soups and pastas. Pumpkins have a very tough skin, so it requires some effort to slice. Once you cut it, scoop out the seeds and any stringy parts, then slice the pumpkin into wedges. The seeds are also edible and packed with nutrients which offer many other benefits. For instance, pumpkin seeds may improve bladder and heart health 30 , Pumpkin is also available pre-cut or canned, giving you flexibility with your recipes and preparation.

The easiest way to eat pumpkin is to season it with salt and pepper and roast it in the oven. Many people also enjoy making it into pumpkin soup, especially during winter. However, some people may experience allergies after eating pumpkin This effect may harm people taking certain medicines such as lithium.

They do not offer the same health benefits as consuming the fruit. Its nutrients and antioxidants may boost your immune system, protect your eyesight, lower your risk of certain cancers and promote heart and skin health. Some foods can reduce appetite, cravings and help you burn more calories. These are the 19 most weight loss friendly foods on the planet. This article takes a look at 10 of the healthiest winter vegetables and why you should include them in your diet.

Antioxidants help defend your cells from damage. These 12 foods are high in antioxidants and can help keep your cells healthy. For optimal health, it's a good idea to choose the foods that contain the most nutrients. Here are the 11 most nutrient-dense foods on earth. Pumpkin is a very popular vegetable, but you may wonder whether it's healthy?

This article reviews the nutritional benefits of pumpkin, as well as…. What you eat affects many aspects of health — including your skin.