October 22nd, 2015
It’s that spooky time of year again! With Halloween around the corner, pumpkins are back in season. Many individuals only think of pumpkins as decorative jack-o’-lanterns and the tasty addition to a thanksgiving dinner. From pumpkin pies to pumpkin spice lattes, the options are endless! However, did you know that these huge orange fruits, as well as the seeds within them contain an abundance of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals? Pumpkins are considered one of nature's top nutritional foods. Pumpkins are a rich source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin B5, essential fatty acids, fiber, potassium, magnesium, zinc, and iron. Not only do these nutrients help protect skin and fight off disease, but they also help prevent cavities and tooth decay!
It is important to remember that a healthy diet is essential in maintaining a healthy mouth and body. Luckily, pumpkin seeds make great nutritional snacks! Pumpkin seeds do not require refrigeration and are easy to pack in your child's lunchbox or throw in a Ziploc bag.
In addition to keeping your teeth strong and healthy, here are few reasons you should indulge in the delicious taste of pumpkin throughout the year:
Pumpkins keep your skin youthful.
Pumpkins are rich in Vitamin A, which helps increase the rate of cell renewal and the production of collagen to keep your skin smooth and soft. In addition, pumpkins are packed with essential fatty acids that help diminish wrinkles. Vitamin E and Beta-carotenes found in pumpkins also helps promotes skin health.
Pumpkins defend against disease.
According to the National Cancer Institute, it is estimated that up to 30 percent of all cancers can be prevented by a healthy diet, including a diet that's rich in carotene. Merely a 1/2 cup serving of pumpkin fulfills the recommended intake of alpha-carotene and beta-carotene!
Pumpkins aid vision and provide UV protection.
Similar to carrots, the beta-carotenes gives pumpkin its' bright orange color, as well as protection against sun damage. Further, according to the National Institutes of Health, a cup of cooked pumpkin has more than 200 percent of the recommended daily intake of Vitamin A, which aids vision.
Pumpkins can help you process information more efficiently.
Zinc and omega-3 fatty acids found in pumpkins can help promote healthy bone density and even sharpen your brain skills.
Pumpkins aid weight loss.
Pumpkins are rich in fiber and low in calories! Fiber helps aid gastrointestinal health, weight-loss, and balanced cholesterol levels.
Pumpkins may reduce the risk of cancer.
According to the National Cancer Institute, a diet rich in foods containing the antioxidant beta-carotene may play a role in cancer prevention and protect against heart disease.
Pumpkins can help refuel your body after exercise.
Like bananas, a cup of cooked pumpkin contains an ample amount of potassium, which helps restore electrolytes after a hard workout and keeps your muscles operating efficiently.
As you carve your pumpkin, keep the insides and the seeds for a nutritious treat! Eating pumpkin seeds is an easy way to consume many nutrients vital to your overall health. Even though fresh pumpkins are in season in the fall, freezing pumpkin seeds or purchasing canned pumpkin or pumpkin seed oil is a good alternative for enjoying pumpkin throughout the year.
Don't forget, our Annual Candy Drive is shortly after Halloween! Make sure that your school is involved for a chance to win a grand prize of $1000 for your school's PTO. At our office (5 Seaward, Wellesley) we are collecting candy donations and hand-written cards for the troops from Nov. 1-Nov.5th. Please join us Nov. 5th at 10AM at the office for our big kickoff event. We're so excited, as this year's drive is bigger and better!
For more info on the Candy Drive and photos from previous events, like our Facebook page.
Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or firstname.lastname@example.org to set up an appointment and consultation.
Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist Dr. Van. Dr. Emad is happy to help with your orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs Dr. Ghazi would be more than willing to help.