Pumpkin
Benefits of Pumpkin
- Eyes
- From: North America
- Form: Powder
What is Pumpkin?
We're all familiar with pumpkins from carving them for Halloween, but it's probably worth thinking twice before you chuck out all the pumpkin flesh and seeds. Pumpkin contains a variety of vitamins, minerals and plant compounds, including carotenoids, beta-carotene and vitamin E, and its seeds contain zinc and phytosterols.
Carotenoids are naturally occurring plant pigments and include lutein, zeaxanthin and meso-zeaxanthin. Lutein and zeaxanthin are found in pumpkin.
What does the research say about Pumpkin?
Researchers have looked at pumpkin's nutritional value and phytochemical potential, and much of the interest is in our eyes. Lutein and zeaxanthin levels have been measured in everyday foods, both raw and cooked. Together with meso-zeaxanthin, they are found in your macular pigment and have antioxidant activity. Researchers have also studied the antioxidant activity of polysaccharides from pumpkin.
The body converts beta-carotene to vitamin A, and vitamin A contributes to the maintenance of normal vision. It is a component of 'rhodopsin', a pigment in your retina that is very sensitive to light and is responsible for how our vision adapts in the dark. Vitamin E contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress. There is a high concentration of fatty acids in the retina, and vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant. Researchers have reviewed vitamin E in relation to the lens and other parts of the eye.
Zinc contributes to the maintenance of normal vision. Pumpkin seed extract has also been clinically studied in men, with researchers looking at the prostate and bladder.
You may also enjoy reading 'Tips for better eye health'.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is vital for our immune system, fighting off infections and in the production of white blood cells. It is also essential for healthy skin, vision and eye health.
Vitamin B2
Vitamin B2 is an antioxidant, a compound that keeps the number of unstable molecules (known as ‘free radicals') at a healthy level in the body.
Vitamin E
One of Vitamin E’s main benefits is that it acts as an antioxidant. Antioxidants combat harmful ‘free radicals’ (unstable molecules), helping prevent damage to cell membranes.
Algae
Algae is one of the main starting points for omega 3 in the food chain and is the source of our Vegan Omega 3, vital for our heart, brain and eye health, and much more.
Astaxanthin
Carotenoids - Lutein, Zeaxanthin, Meso-zeaxanthin and Astaxanthin - are found at the back of the eye, forming the macular pigment which is so important to protect for long-term vision.
Beta Carotene
Beta-carotene is a carotenoid that gives carrots their distinctive colour. Our body converts it into Vitamin A for a range of health benefits, particularly for our eyes.
Bilberry
Bilberry is an antioxidant, supporting the retinal function, helping maintain eye health, and providing a natural defence against free radicals.
Carrot
We all know carrots are good for us and this is because they're packed with nutrients, vitamins and antioxidants, that all work to benefit the health of your body.
