15/01/2026
Pumpkin or squash, is called Elegede/ Agbeje by the Yoruba people, the Igbos calls it Ugboghoro or Anyụ and Kabewe in Hausa.
It is a versatile ingredient used in various dishes, including soups, stews, curries, and tempura. The skin is edible once cooked.
Pumpkin is packed with essential nutrients such as:
Vitamins: It is an excellent source of beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. It is also rich in vitamin C and contains some B vitamins, vitamin E, and folate.
Minerals: It is a good source of potassium, magnesium, iron, and manganese.
Fiber: The squash is loaded with fiber, which helps one feel fuller for longer.
Other compounds: It contains various antioxidants, including carotenoids, and healthy fats and protein in its seeds.
It helps in Immune System Support: Pumpkin is rich in immune-promoting nutrients like vitamins A, C, and E, which can help boost immunity and protect against infections.
Healthy Eyesight and Skin: The squash contains high levels of beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A, essential for good eyesight and healthy skin.
Digestive Health: With a good amount of fiber, the squash can aid in digestion and help prevent constipation.
Heart Health: Nutrients like potassium, fiber, and vitamin C support heart health and can help regulate blood pressure.
Mineral content: It also provides essential minerals such as iron and magnesium, which are important for overall growth and development.
Cancer Prevention: Pumpkins are packed with antioxidants and nutrients like vitamin A and carotenoids, which may lower the risk for certain types of cancer, including prostate and lung cancer.
Blood Sugar Management: Pumpkin has a low glycemic index and is rich in fiber (polysaccharides), which helps maintain stable blood sugar levels by preventing them from rising quickly.
Weight Management: Being high in fiber but low in calories, pumpkin can help manage weight by promoting a feeling of fullness without significantly increasing overall food intake.
