You already know that pumpkins can be used to make great jack-o-lanterns at Halloween, but did you know that there is much more to them than that? These fun members of the squash family are also good for you. They are nutritious and packed with vitamins.

Let’s start with a few pumpkin facts. Pumpkins can be found growing in six of our continents. They are sometimes used as livestock feed. They contain 90% water and were even once used as a remedy for snakebites.

These wonderful vegetables can grow to enormous proportions. Several pumpkins have been grown that have weighed more than one thousand pounds. In the United States, in 2007, one gigantic pumpkin weighed in at an amazing 1,689 pounds.

Roasted pumpkin seeds are not only a tasty snack, but have the added benefit of being high in fiber. They also contain iron and protein. It has been said that the seeds lower the risk of prostrate cancer.

The edible pulp of the pumpkin contains Vitamin A and potassium, as well as Vitamin C and beta carotene. Beta carotene has been shown to help in the reduction of some kinds of cancer and lowers the risk of heart disease.

Other benefits to be found in pumpkins are that they are low in calories, low in fat, and they contain absolutely no cholesterol.

Recipes made with pumpkin however, are often high in cholesterol. This is due to the fact that eggs are often added when cooking with pumpkin and egg yolks are very high in cholesterol. To avoid this, a product such as Egg Beaters can be substituted for the eggs. They are made of only the egg whites. Low fat pumpkin muffins, cakes and loaves are a staple of many weight reducing plans.

Who knew pumpkins were so healthy? This, together with being delicious, makes a wonderful recipe for strength, well being and health. Here’s to your health. Here’s to pumpkins.