The Nutritional Value of Pumpkin
Pumpkin is a low-calorie fruit that is packed with nutrients. One cup of mashed pumpkin contains:
- Calories: 49
- Protein: 1.8 grams
- Fat: 0.2 grams
- Carbohydrates: 12 grams
- Fiber: 2.7 grams
- Sugar: 5.1 grams
Pumpkin is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including:
- Vitamin A: Pumpkin is an excellent source of vitamin A, which is important for vision, immune function, and skin health.
- Vitamin C: Pumpkin is a good source of vitamin C, which is an antioxidant that helps to protect cells from damage.
- Potassium: Potassium is a mineral that is important for heart health, blood pressure control, and muscle function.
- Magnesium: Magnesium is a mineral that is important for bone health, muscle function, and nerve function.
- Iron: Iron is a mineral that is important for red blood cell production.
The Health Benefits of Pumpkin
Pumpkin has been shown to have a number of health benefits, including:
- Anti-inflammatory effects: Pumpkin contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory effects. These compounds may help to reduce inflammation in the body, which can lead to a number of health benefits, including reduced pain, swelling, and stiffness.
- Anti-cancer effects: Pumpkin has been shown to have anti-cancer effects in both laboratory and animal studies. The compounds in pumpkin may help to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and promote the death of cancer cells.
- Heart-protective effects: Pumpkin is a good source of potassium, which is a mineral that is important for heart health. Potassium helps to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Tips for Incorporating Pumpkin into Your Diet
Pumpkin is a versatile fruit that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Here are a few tips for incorporating pumpkin into your diet:
- Add pumpkin to smoothies: Pumpkin puree can be added to smoothies for a boost of nutrients and flavor.
- Make pumpkin soup: Pumpkin soup is a delicious and healthy way to warm up on a cold day.
- Roast pumpkin seeds: Pumpkin seeds are a healthy and crunchy snack that can be roasted in the oven.
- Add pumpkin to baked goods: Pumpkin puree can be added to baked goods, such as muffins, bread, and cookies, for a boost of nutrients and flavor.
How many calories are in Pumpkin?
Each 1 cup, mashed of Pumpkin contains 49 calories.
Pumpkin Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Amount per 1 cup, mashed (245g) |
---|---|
Calories | 49 Calories |
Protein | 1.8g |
Fat | 0.2g |
Saturated Fat | 0.1g |
Cholesterol | 0mg |
Carbohydrates | 12g |
Dietary Fiber | 2.7g |
Sugar | 5.1g |
Sodium | 0.0025mg |
Potassium | 0.5635mg |
Calcium | 0.037mg |
Iron | 0.0014mg |