Oh My Gourd! Have You Heard of These Health Benefits?

It seems like Fall has just begun here in Chicago, but the winter season is quickly approaching and that means grocery stores and farmers markets are filling up with one of our favorite winter veggies: gourds! Gourds aren’t just great to look at during this season, they also taste great. Plus, they have a variety of health benefits that aid in boosting blood circulation, immunity, bone strength and more. Here’s what you need to know about these seasonal favorites that will have you feeling gourd!

What is a Gourd?

The gourd family of food includes some vegetables you can probably guess like squash and pumpkins, but it also encompasses melons and cucumbers. The latter is seen more in the summer, whereas squash and pumpkins are fall and winter favorites. They can be savory or sweet and although their delicious flavor should be enough to add them to your diet, their numerous health benefits are sure to give you a boost.

Health Benefits

Gourds are for more than centerpieces. When eaten, they provide many health benefits including, but not limited, to the following:

  • Heart health: Winter squash are rich in potassium, which is essential to regulating blood pressure. Just one cup of butternut squash provides nearly 1/4 of your daily potassium requirement.

  • Fight inflammation: The very great gourds contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce inflammation throughout the body. Compounds like omega-3 fatty acids, different carotenoids, and some naturally occurring sugars work together to fight chronic inflammation.

  • Improve circulation: Many gourds are high in minerals such as copper and iron that can aid in the improvement of circulation and deliver oxygenated blood to the cells in your body.

  • Strengthen muscles: Did you know you can find protein in pumpkins? Your body needs protein if your muscles are going to build and repair themselves, to get pumped with pumpkin.

  • Strong bones: Certain minerals like magnesium, zinc, manganese, and calcium play a role in maintaining bone strength and density. Guess where you can find these minerals? That’s right, in gourds!

  • Healthier digestion: Gourds are full of fiber that helps to enhance digestion (insoluble fiber) and promote healthy cholesterol levels (soluble fiber).

  • Boost immunity: A healthy immune system is always a good thing, but especially so in winter when it seems like everyone has a bug. Gourds like pumpkin are high in an antioxidant called beta-carotene, which also gives it its beautiful orange color. Gourds are also full of Vitamin C that links up with the beta-carotene to help keep your immune cells healthy and functioning at their very best.

Gourds are great for decorating, but are even better for your health. Next time you’re out shopping to make your home a little more festive, pick up a few extra gourds for the dinner table. For more tips on maintaining a healthy diet, click here to contact us or ask during your next adjustment!

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