Top 10 Reasons to Eat More Pumpkin (Benefits, Nutrition & More)

November 20, 2024

Whether you’re using canned pumpkin to make homemade pumpkin bread or toasting pumpkin seeds after carving one at home, you might be curious about what type of pumpkin nutrition benefits there are.

Considering it’s one of the greatest sources of vitamin A, plus rich in other antioxidants and nutrients like fiber, pumpkin benefits include the ability to help support skin and eye health, keep blood pressure levels healthy, and even fight certain types of cancer.

What is pumpkin?

Is pumpkin a vegetable or fruit?

Although we typically think of pumpkins as vegetables (since they are a type of squash, like the hubbard squash), they are technically fruits. That’s because fruits are edible products of seed-bearing, flowering plants.

From a botanical standpoint, a pumpkin is a cultivar of winter squash that usually comes from the Cucurbita pepo or Cucurbita maxima plants. It’s a member of the Cucurbitaceae plant family, which means it’s related to veggies and fruits like watermelon, zucchini and cucumber.

Less commonly, edible pumpkins are also sourced from squash cultivars including C. argyrosperma and C. moschata.

Not only can you eat the “flesh” of pumpkin (the smooth, orange filling), but you can also enjoy the seeds and even the leaves and juices from the plant, which are full of nutrients, including healthy fatty acids.

Pumpkins are thought to be native to North America, specifically Northeastern Mexico and the Southern U.S.

They are actually one of the oldest domesticated plants. It’s believed that tribes native to North America have been growing them since at least 5,000 BC.

Benefits

1. Very high in vitamin A/beta-carotene and other antioxidants

According to one review focused on pumpkin nutrition benefits, this type of squash “contains several phyto-constituents belonging to the categories of alkaloids, flavonoids, and palmitic, oleic and linoleic acids. Various important medicinal properties including anti-diabetic, antioxidant, anti-carcinogenic, anti-inflammatory and others have been well documented.”

Beta-carotene is one type of carotenoid antioxidant that is responsible for pumpkins’ signature orange color. Beta-carotene is found in cancer-fighting fruits and vegetables and may help reduce the risk of some types of cancer, including colon and prostate cancer.

Studies have shown that eating produce rich in vitamin A/beta-carotene may not only defend against cancer, but also protect vision, prevent macular degeneration, and boost heart and neurological health. This is due to vitamin A’s ability to counteract oxidative stress and free radical damage, which harm healthy cells and neurons.

One study even concluded that high-beta-carotene diets can lower risk of all-cause mortality. Additionally, there’s evidence that high beta-carotene consumption can offer protection against obesity and risk factors for metabolic syndrome.

It’s thought that vitamin A is a potent regulator of adipose (fat) tissue development and is therefore important for obesity prevention.

2. Good source of vitamins C and E

Vitamin C that is found in pumpkin can help protect cells and tissues from damage — plus it supports synthesis of collagen protein, which forms and strengthens skin and other connective tissues.

Vitamin C is also important for healthy immune system function, cancer prevention and neurological health.

Another vitamin with antioxidant effects that is found in pumpkin is vitamin E. Diets rich in vitamin E are linked to a reduced risk for heart disease, hormonal problems like PMS, Alzheimer’s disease, and skin issues like acne and wrinkles.

Vitamin E also seems to help prevent damage from free radicals and may decrease the risk of certain types of cancer, including colorectal and prostate cancer.

Pumpkin seeds are also sources of cancer-fighting compounds, which is why these seeds have been used in folk medicine as remedy for kidney, bladder and prostate cancer, along with other disorders such as erectile dysfunction, for centuries.

Pumpkin seed oil that is made from the seeds also can help defend against skin damage and slow-healing wounds due to antioxidants, such as tocopherols, fatty acids and phytosterols.

3. Can help regulate heart health and blood pressure

Each one-cup serving of cooked pumpkin provides about 12% or more of your daily potassium needs. Potassium is an electrolyte that many adults lack in their diets, considering it’s primarily found in veggies and fruits such as bananas, potatoes, squash and avocados.

Consuming plenty of potassium offers benefits such as lowering the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease and having a stroke. It counteracts the effects of sodium in your diet, which many people eating a “standard American diet” consume too much of, helping prevent hypertension.

In addition to potassium, pumpkin and pumpkin seeds provide other nutrients that promote cardiovascular health, including fiber and vitamin C. Fiber can promote healthy cholesterol levels, while vitamin C defends against oxidative stress.

4. Provides fiber and supports metabolic and gut health

Studies have shown that eating a diet rich in plant foods, especially those high in antioxidants and fiber, helps decrease the risk of a number of chronic diseases — including metabolic syndrome, obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Fiber aids in gut health by promoting elimination and preventing constipation. It also “feeds” healthy probiotic bacteria in the gut and helps them thrive, while also helping manage blood levels.

Another benefit of a high-fiber diet is that it helps make you feel full, which can allow you to control your calorie intake more easily and potentially manage your weight.

5. Provides manganese and copper

Adding pumpkin to your diet is beneficial for bone health because manganese helps defend against loss of bone density and fractures. Additionally, manganese has some anti-inflammatory properties and plays a role in cognitive, metabolic and joint health.

Copper is another mineral found in pumpkin that has a number of roles in helping form hemoglobin and collagen in the body. Copper also helps with synthesis of several enzymes and proteins that are involved in energy metabolism, DNA synthesis and respiration.

6. May boost immune health

Pumpkin is rich in vitamin A and vitamin C, both of which play critical roles in supporting a healthy immune system.

Vitamin A helps regulate immune responses, while vitamin C stimulates the production and function of white blood cells, essential for fighting infections.

A 2023 study found that adequate vitamin C intake can shorten the duration and severity of colds, making pumpkin an excellent choice for cold and flu season.

7. Protects eye healthy

The vibrant orange hue of pumpkin comes from its high levels of beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A. This antioxidant is essential for maintaining good vision, particularly as you age.

Studies have suggested that beta-carotene may lower the risk of age-related macular degeneration and cataracts, two common causes of vision loss.

In addition, lutein and zeaxanthin, other antioxidants found in pumpkin, help protect the eyes from UV light and oxidative stress.

8. Can support weight maintenance

Pumpkin is a low-calorie, nutrient-dense food that can help with weight management. Its high water content and fiber promote feelings of fullness, which may reduce overall calorie intake.

In addition, research published in 2018 also found that pumpkin extract can inhibit adipose fat tissue, indicating pumpkin extract may help control obesity.

9. May lower risk of cancer

The antioxidants in pumpkin nutrition, including beta-carotene, vitamin C and vitamin E, help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, a key factor in cancer development.

Some research has linked high beta-carotene intake with a lower risk of certain types of cancer, including lung and prostate cancers, though results have been mixed.

Additionally, the seeds of the pumpkin contain compounds that may help inhibit cancer cell growth.

10. Supports healthy skin

The nutrients in pumpkin, including vitamins A, C and E, as well as zinc, contribute to healthy, glowing skin.

Vitamin C promotes collagen production, improving skin elasticity and reducing signs of aging.

Zinc helps reduce inflammation and may improve acne-prone skin.

Furthermore, carotenoids, such as beta-carotene, protect the skin from damage caused by UV rays, according to research published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

Nutrition facts

There are many things to love about pumpkin nutrition — including that this “fruit” is high in fiber, low in calories, basically fat-free, and full of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, copper, manganese and more.

Pumpkin seeds (also called pepitas), on the other hand, are high in manganese, iron, zinc, magnesium, phosphorus, amino acids and even some antioxidants, such as phenolic compounds, vitamin E and carotenoids.

Even the peel of pumpkin provides anti-inflammatory compounds that can help fight disease.

Additionally, pumpkin seed oil is created from this plant, which is a thick oil pressed from roasted pumpkin seeds that is high in beneficial fatty acids, such as oleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid.

A one-cup serving of cooked, mashed pumpkin (about 245 grams) contains approximately:

Calories: 49
Total Carbohydrates: 12 g
Fiber: 2.7 g
Sugar: 5.1 g
Total Fat: 0.2 g
Saturated Fat: 0.1 g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.01 g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.02 g
Protein: 1.8 g
Sodium: 2.5 mg (<1% DV*)
Vitamin A: 706 mcg (78% DV)
Copper: 0.2 mg (22% DV)
Riboflavin: 0.2 mg (15% DV)
Vitamin C: 11.5 mg (13% DV)
Vitamin E: 2 mg (13% DV)
Potassium: 564 mg (12% DV)
Pantothenic Acid: 0.5 mg (10% DV)
Manganese: 0.2 mg (9% DV)
Iron: 1.4 mg (8% DV)
Thiamine: 0.1 mg (8% DV)
Phosphorus: 73.5 mg (6% DV)
Folate: 22 mcg (6% DV)
Niacin: 1 mg (6% DV)
Vitamin B6: 0.1 mg (6% DV)
Magnesium: 22 mg (5% DV)
Zinc: 0.6 mg (5% DV)
Calcium: 36.8 mg (3% DV)

*Daily Value: Percentages are based on a diet of 2,000 calories a day.

Is pumpkin a carb or protein?

Pumpkin contains more carbs than protein. While it’s relatively high in carbs for a veggie (which is how it’s treated, rather than a fruit), it’s also high in fiber. This lowers its net carb count.

For example, one cup of pumpkin has about nine grams of net carbs, which makes it moderately high in carbs if you follow a low-carb diet but not very high overall.

Pumpkin is not a very high source of protein, although it does contain several grams per serving. If you follow a plant-based diet and are looking for plant proteins, better option include beans, legumes, whole grains, nuts and seeds.

Pumpkin seeds, as opposed to the flesh of the fruit, are a bit higher in protein.

How to add to diet

In grocery stores and farmers markets you can find both fresh/whole pumpkins and canned pumpkin puree. The canned type is easier to use — you simply pop open the can, and it’s ready to go — however freshly carved and cooked pumpkin may taste a bit better and pack in even more antioxidants.

If you do choose to buy and cook whole pumpkins, look for those that feel heavy for their size, are firm, smooth and have no noticeable rotting spots.

Pumpkin is used in a variety of cuisines around the world, including Chinese, Japanese, Korean, African, Cajun and Creole recipes. It pairs well with spices and flavors such as:

cinnamon
ginger
cardamom
turmeric
nutmeg
cayenne
vanilla
black pepper

Of course, in the U.S. it’s most popular during the fall when it takes center stage in recipes like pumpkin bread, lattes and muffins. It can also be used to make healthy desserts, puddings, soups, preserves and “butters,” and roasted and used in salads.

One secret benefit of using pureed pumpkin in recipes is that its natural sweetness and smooth texture can help cut back on the need for added sugar and fats like cheese, cream or oil.

Try some of these favorite pumpkin recipes:

Risks and side effects

Who should not eat pumpkin? If you’re allergic to other types of winter squash, avoid consuming pumpkin.

Like other canned goods, some canned pumpkin products are high in sodium, so stick to about one cup per day. You’ll also want to read ingredient labels carefully to avoid products with added sugar.

Conclusion

Pumpkin is a type of winter squash that is technically a fruit. It’s an excellent source of vitamin A, plus supplies you with vitamins C and E, fiber, potassium, manganese, and more.
Pumpkin nutrition can help support healthy eyes/vision, skin, a strong immune system, and cardiovascular, digestive and skeletal health.
You can either purchase canned pumpkin puree (opt for the unsweetened type) or make your own. Use the flesh/puree in recipes including desserts, soups, pies, marmalades, muffins, breads and lattes.
The seeds are also rich in healthy fatty acids and minerals. They can be roasted and snacked on or added to salads and trail mixes.