We take pumpkin for granted once the pumpkin season comes, yet this is by far one of Nature’s own wonders offering nutrition which is conserved for a long period of time. Popularized through folk tales as the legend of the Sleepy Hollow and Cinderella, we often use them for decoration and overlook the health benefits they provide when eaten raw or cooked.
Pumpkin are part of the cucumber and melon family which also include melons and squashes. You can see in our illustration below just how many vitamins and minerals one pumpkin can provide in nutritional value for its modest cost during the fall season.
Another health tip would be saving the pumpkin seeds and drying them at home to eat raw seeds, or baking them would also be viable to preserve nutrition by using lower temperatures.
Pumpkin seeds are a wonderful source of B Vitamins, many minerals including zinc, phytonutrients and essential fatty oils. Including Vitamin B17 known as laetrile which is reputed as anti-tumor and anti-cancer effects. Furthermore, they supply a safe and natural source of tryptophan – the least abundant amino acid in most people’s diets. Also interesting note, these seeds help to remove intestinal worms, so they are excellent cleansing foods for the gut.
Interesting fact: pumpkin seeds contain hormone building elements. The old in the seeds not only support sexual function, they also help protect against heart disease. Which is why they have been traditionally used for prostate disorders. Make sure to eat them raw to preserve full potency of the oil – or by cold-pressed pumpkin seed oil.
At Indigo Age Cafe, vegan restaurant in Vancouver, we celebrate the colourful pumpkin season by making pumpkin the star of our fall menu! Try our pumpkin spice latte served with our own vegan coconut cream, warm squash and pumpkin soup served with cashew cream, and our signature entree – stuffed pumpkin with marinated mushrooms. Mmm! Worth your visit, right?
Friends we are pleased to share that we are now serving VEGAN COCONUT WHIPPED CREAM that you can enjoy on top of all of our warm beverages:
New Pumpkin Spice Latte with cinnamon, cardamom and nutmeg spices
As well as our signature Hot chocolate, Chai* Latte or Matcha Latte – all served with our *house-made almond mylk* and sweetened with dates.
