Page 62 - Harnett Life Fall 2018

Healthy

Fall

Food

By Dr. Ryan Beck D.C. QNCP

Fall is the time where the weather gets cooler, the leaves promotes good vision. Vitamin A also helps to form and
change color, and EVERYTHING becomes pumpkin fla- maintain healthy skin, teeth and bones.
vored. Coffee, candy, beer and even potato chips have be-
come the trend that is called “pumpkin spice.” But what Estrogen Boosting Effects- Pumpkin seed oil is full of
pumpkin spice is missing is the actual pumpkin and all of phytoestrogens. When eaten phytoestrogens may affect a
the health benefits that go along with it. Pumpkin is a high- person in the same way as estrogen produced by the body.
ly nutrient dense food rich in vitamins while low in calo- Positive studies have shown relief of hot flashes, prevention
ries. When eaten in one of its true forms, either pulp, seeds, of osteoporosis and even treatment of acne.
or oil it can not only be trendy and delicious but also very Better Sleep- Pumpkin seeds are high in tryptophan, the
healthy for you. same amino acid that is found in turkey and helps with
the post meal sleepiness. Tryptophan is also responsible
Pumpkins are part of the squash family but are also classi- for making Serotonin and Melatonin, which are both neu-
fied as a fruit. This delicious fruit packs a powerful punch, rotransmitters that help you relax. So as a bonus you will
with just 1 cup it contains only 49 calories, 2.7 grams of not only get to sleep better but it may improve your mood.
high quality dietary fiber, delivers 245 percent of daily rec-
ommended vitamin A, 19 percent of vitamin C, 16 percent Immune Health Booster- Pumpkin seeds and pulp are high
of potassium, and 11 percent of magnesium. This bountiful in both Vitamin C and beta Carotene. These can protect
combination of superfood can have major positive health immunity by offering a boost to the immune system by con-
effects on the human body. verting into Vitamin A and triggering the creation of White
Blood Cells that can fight infection.
Feel Fuller Longer- Pumpkin seeds contain nearly 2 grams
of dietary fiber per ounce. Fiber rich foods help you feel This fall remember that pumpkins should be incorporated
fuller longer which helps keep your appetite at bay so you into more than just your coffee or beer. Incorporate it into
can eat less overall. your diet and your taste buds and your body will thank you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of
Vision Booster- One cup of cubed pumpkin contains nearly our offices and ask for a free consultation.
twice the recommended daily amount of Vitamin A which

Page 62 Harnett Life ~ Fall 2018