President of the Association of Nutritionists and Health Coaches (ANCH)
Who should not eat pumpkin?
Beautiful, bright, juicy and flavorful – all about her majesty pumpkin. The queen of autumn rules the ball on the shelves of stores and beckons to try all dishes with it: soups, porridge, casseroles and desserts. Pumpkin dishes are really delicious, and the vegetable itself is very healthy – but not for everyone.
We tell you who needs to eat pumpkin with caution and why some people should refuse this fall treat.
What is the usefulness of pumpkin
Pumpkin is a nutritious and hearty vegetable, rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. In 100 g contains about 60 kcal, 30 g of carbohydrates and 2 g of protein, which makes it a suitable product for diet. The vegetable is also rich in vegetable fiber, vitamins A and C, thiamine, iron, pyridoxine, magnesium, potassium, folate and manganese. Such a composition has a positive effect on the nervous system, gastrointestinal functions and heart function.
A healthy person, pumpkin also helps to strengthen immunity, which is especially important in the off-season. In addition, the high vitamin C content has a positive effect on collagen production, which is necessary for smooth skin and strong hair and nails. B vitamins and magnesium strengthen the nervous system.
Bright orange pumpkin is high in alpha-carotenoids, which can reduce the risk of diabetes and eye disease.
Pumpkin seeds contain the amino acid cucurbitin, which has an antihelminthic effect – the substance is toxic to some varieties of parasites, but completely safe for humans. Pumpkin increases intestinal peristalsis, so that toxins, parasites and toxic traces of their vital activity are removed from the body.
Potassium and iron, phosphorus and magnesium, vitamins B and E from the seeds are quickly assimilated by tissues and together with the blood are spread throughout the body. It also helps strengthen immunity, weakened against the background of parasites, helps restore intestinal microflora.
Who can not eat pumpkin
Pumpkin is a useful vegetable, but it is not possible to eat it for everyone. And eating too much is not recommended for anyone.
Allergies to pumpkin are very rare, and most often it is due to the body’s reaction to the protein f225, which is in the composition of the fruit. Nevertheless, if you notice signs of allergy, exclude this vegetable from your diet and seek help from a specialist. Most likely, you will need to take antihistamine medication.
In addition to allergies, there are a number of common diseases in which this vegetable should be excluded from the diet or used in minimal quantities:
- severe forms of diabetes – pumpkin has a high glycemic index, so it provokes sugar spikes;
- low stomach acidity and diseases of the gastrointestinal tract in the acute stage;
- intestinal cramps and abdominal bloating.
In the fall, it is necessary to support the body and add vitamin products to the menu. I strongly recommend including pumpkin in it, if you do not have medical contraindications. Perhaps this tasty and healthy vegetable will be the first step towards a healthier and vegetable-rich diet.
Remember, you should eat up to 400 grams of fresh vegetables and herbs per day. Start taking care of your health today and eat a full diet, so that tomorrow you do not need to seek help from doctors.