Like all, or at least most, orange foods, pumpkins are packed with beta-carotene and other carotenoids. And would you believe- it’s yet another food that provides lutein?

Beyond that, pumpkins also are a good source of vitamin A, niacin, vitamin C, calcium, and potassium. AND, they’re low in calories, yet easily substitute for fats in most baking recipes (and some others as well).

Pumpkins are also high in zinc, which helps to control hormonal balance among other things. In fact, pumpkin seeds are highly recommended for women suffering from PCOS (Poly Cystic Ovary Syndrome) which is caused by a hormonal imbalance.

And it’s not difficult to make your own pumpkin puree, so there’s really no reason to have to buy canned pumpkin, or avoid cooking with it all together.

And yes, all the sugar and flour and so on in the pumpkin pies at this time of year are not good for you, but if you’re going to indulge in something, make it something with at least a little nutritional value!