Autumn is the time for the pumpkin harvest. And since pumpkin is considered the most useful and vitamin-rich vegetable, one cannot ignore it. Pumpkin has a characteristic orange color and is of great benefit to the body.
Like all bright orange fruits and vegetables, pumpkin is extremely rich in beta-carotene, which our body converts into vitamin A, which is essential both for strengthening the immune system and for the normal functioning of the digestive and respiratory systems.
Maintaining energy balance
Pumpkin is an important source of carbohydrates that performs an energy function, pumpkin at the same time contains a large amount of potassium, magnesium and trace elements necessary to maintain the body's energy balance. Lack of these micronutrients can lead to increased fatigue, muscle cramps, as well as an increase in blood cholesterol and spikes in blood pressure, which increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. In addition, regular consumption of pumpkin helps to alleviate the symptoms of toxicosis in pregnant women.
Curious facts
- The homeland of the pumpkin is Mexico, where it was eaten as far back as 3000 BC.
- The most delicious pumpkin is nutmeg. There are many varieties of it: spaghetti pumpkin, gourd, acorn, nut, marble, golden pear.
- The most important antioxidant beta-carotene, which is abundant in pumpkin, is much better absorbed when dishes are cooked with a small amount of vegetable oil.
- The largest pumpkin in the world was grown in 2010 by American Chris Stevens, it was 4, 7 meters in circumference.
