7 reasons why you should eat pumpkin all year round - not just at Halloween

Thought pumpkin was just for Halloween? Wrong. 

Pumpkin is highly nutritious and a great seasonal autumn food, and can be enjoyed in a number of different ways.

Flesh, seeds and oil are all highly beneficial to our health for a host of different reasons. 

Here, two nutrition experts give us their low-down on why this delicious autumnal vegetable in its different forms is so good for us.

WEIGHT LOSS  

Low in calories and carbohydrates, there doesn't seem to be a logical reason to avoid having pumpkin in your diet.

It's delicious flavour - similar to that of a sweet potato - means it makes a great swap for those trying to lose weight.

But the vegetable will also help to keep people full-up for extended periods of time, preventing them from snacking throughout the day.

London-based nutritionist Cassandra Barns said: 'It contains a good amount of fibre too – around 3 grams per one-cup serving – so will help keep you fuller for longer.

IT'S GOOD FOR YOUR SKIN

Pumpkin, along with vegetables such as carrots, squash and sweet potatoes, contains high levels of beta carotene and other carotenoids.

These are responsible for its bright orange colouring.

Beta-carotene converts to vitamin A within the body, which is one of the most important nutrients for skin integrity.

This allows the skin to stay firm, resisting damage and allowing it heal quicker.

While the compound may also help to prevent free radical damage to our cells that can result in ageing, as it works as an antioxidant. 

Dr Marilyn Glenville, author of Natural Alternatives to Sugar, said: 'The orange vegetables are delicious as a basis for stews and soups in the winter, or roasted with other vegetables such as peppers, red onions and beetroot.'

FULL OF NATURAL ANTIOXIDANTS

Pumpkin seed oil contains very high levels of natural antioxidants and polyunsaturated fatty acids. 

It is especially high in the gamma-tocopherol form of vitamin E, which is a powerful antioxidant. 

Previous research has found the compound can reduce inflammation and protect against some forms of cancer.

Scientists have also found it activates genes involved in preventing the onslaught of Alzheimer's disease.  

IT CAN HELP BOOST YOUR MOOD

Feeling a bit down in the dumps? Try a pumpkin-spiced latte - known to help improve moods of people. 

Full of magnesium, which is involved in many brain chemistry reactions, it could help to cure depression and anxiety.

Previous research has found a deficiency in the compound means people are more at risk of depressive symptoms.

Ms Barns said: 'Pumpkin seeds are one of our best sources of magnesium. 

'This vital mineral is often called "nature's tranquiliser", as it's associated with helping us feel calm and relaxed.' 

VISION-BOOSTER

We've all heard the myth that eating carrots can make you see in the dark - but what about pumpkin?

Full of beta-carotene, the body converts this into vitamin A - which then further breaks down into retinol.

By providing the eyes with retinol, they can see more light - preventing degenerative eye diseases. 

This helps to improve eye health eye and slow the decline of retinal function which can cause blindness.

Ms Barns said: 'A cup of cubed pumpkin is an easy and tasty way to get your daily-recommended amount of vitamin A.' 

KEEPS YOUR HEART PUMPING

The antioxidants in pumpkin can have a protective effect for the whole body, including our heart and blood vessels. 

High in fibre, both flesh and seeds may help to keep cholesterol levels in check, experts say. 

While previous research found a high-fibre diet can help to lower blood pressure - potentially preventing heart disease 

For maximum fibre, try oatcakes topped with roasted pumpkin chunks, or try sprinkling pumpkin seeds on top of your salad.

HELPS THE IMMUNE SYSTEM

Thanks to its helpful servings of both vitamin A and C - pumpkin can be a great way to fend off winter bugs.

The nutrients are both deemed vital for the maintenance of a healthy immune system, experts say.

Ms Barns said: 'Make a big batch of warming pumpkin soup with ginger and spices for cold winter evenings.'

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