Pumpkin: A superfood rich in vitamins, fiber, and sleep-boosting benefits

NEW YORK: As Halloween fades away, nutritionists are reminding people not to forget pumpkins — the vibrant orange vegetable that’s not only decorative but also one of the most nutritious superfoods of autumn.

Behind the sweet, bright orange flesh of pumpkins lies a wealth of nutrients. Rich in carotenoids, including beta-carotene — which converts to vitamin A in the body — pumpkins are vital for maintaining good vision, skin health, and immunity.

Studies show that carotenoid-rich diets help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic illnesses such as heart disease and cancer.

Pumpkins are also packed with vitamin C, which supports the immune system and collagen production, keeping skin firm and healthy. Additionally, they contain potassium, which benefits heart health and helps balance the effects of sodium in the body.

Just 100 grams of cooked pumpkin provides about 2 grams of fiber, promoting better digestion, stable blood sugar levels, and a lasting feeling of fullness. With its natural sweetness and creamy texture, pumpkin can easily replace sweeteners or dairy in soups, smoothies, and baked dishes.

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While pumpkins are widely available, not every type is fit for eating. The large pumpkins often carved for Halloween are usually watery and bland. Smaller, fleshier varieties are best for cooking and nutrition.

• Crown Prince: Blue-gray skin, deep orange flesh, and rich in carotenoids.

• Kabocha: A sweet Japanese pumpkin, high in beta-carotene.

• Butternut Squash: Technically a squash, but with pumpkin-like flavor and nutrition, perfect for soups.

• Hokkaido (Red Curry): Edible with skin on, offering a nutty, chestnut-like taste.

• Harlequin Squash: Small, colorful, and creamy, ideal for salads or stews.

All these varieties provide high levels of vitamins A, C, and E, along with fiber and potassium, making them essential for a healthy diet year-round.

If the pumpkin flesh is its body, the seeds are truly its heart. Pumpkin seeds are loaded with essential minerals like zinc, magnesium, and selenium, all crucial for immune strength, hormonal balance, and gut health.

Zinc supports white blood cell production — the body’s first defense against infection — while selenium helps reduce inflammation and maintain thyroid health. Magnesium aids in sleep quality, muscle relaxation, and digestion.

Nutrition experts highlight that magnesium-rich foods such as pumpkin seeds, leafy greens, and cocoa help reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and support muscle recovery.

Pumpkin seeds are also beneficial for gut health and digestion. They provide fiber and plant-based protein that nourish good gut bacteria, improving immunity, mood, and overall well-being.

Research also suggests pumpkin seed oil may help reduce intestinal inflammation and support a healthier digestive system.

These seeds can be eaten raw, roasted, or ground — and soaking or grinding them helps the body absorb nutrients more efficiently.

Perhaps the most surprising benefit is their positive effect on sleep. Pumpkin seeds contain tryptophan — an amino acid that helps the body produce serotonin and melatonin, the hormones that regulate mood and sleep cycles.

Having a small handful of pumpkin seeds before bedtime can serve as a simple, natural way to improve sleep quality.

There are countless easy ways to add pumpkin and its seeds to your meals:

• Roast pumpkin slices with olive oil, cumin, and garlic.

• Blend pumpkin pulp into smoothies for creaminess and extra nutrition.

• Mix pumpkin puree into pancake or muffin batter.

• Sprinkle roasted pumpkin seeds on salads, soups, or yogurt.

• Create pumpkin hummus by combining roasted pumpkin with chickpeas, tahini, and lemon juice.