Weight loss clinics recommend pumpkin as a super food not just for its fiber-rich content, but because it offers a multitude of health benefits. It’s extremely easy to prepare, filling and delicious, and both the pulp and seeds offer a host of benefits. A one cup serving has zero fat and cholesterol, and only eight grams of carbohydrates.
Pumpkins are antioxidant-rich—they offer vitamins A, B6, C and E and are excellent sources of magnesium, folate, iron, phosphorus, niacin, thiamin, lutein and zeaxanthin. They also are loaded with carotenoids, including beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A.
Not only does eating pumpkin boost weight loss programs, it benefits your overall health significantly. Lutein and zeaxanthin helps prevent cataract formation and reduces the risk of macular degeneration, while beta carotene can prevent night blindness and other sight issues. Another reason why medical weight loss centers recommend eating foods like pumpkin is because it boosts your immune system by providing more than 11 milligrams of vitamin C.
Pumpkin’s high content of magnesium and zinc helps strengthen teeth and bones, and also boosts heart health. The seeds have been shown to promote a healthy prostate, and their anti-inflammatory benefits help provide arthritis relief. In addition, pumpkin seeds contain phytosterols, a compound that helps lower LDL “bad” cholesterol.
Medical weight loss centers also promote the consumption of pumpkins because their antioxidant content has been shown to play a role in cancer prevention, according to the National Cancer Institute. The carotenoids neutralize free radicals which can help reduce the risk of cancer.
Last but not least, weight loss clinics promote the consumption of pumpkin because it’s loaded with potassium, which gives your energy for working out, maximizes muscle functions and helps restore the body's balance of electrolytes after exercise.
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