Butternut squash, acorn squash, pumpkins,
and their kin are known as winter squash.
They have a tough rind that lends them well
to storage in the cold season, when they are
a tasty source of several key nutrients.
Winter squash are packed with carotenoids,
a class of plant compounds including beta-carotene
and alpha-carotene, important because the
body converts them into vitamin A. Carotenoids
give the flesh of the many varieties of winter
squash their distinctive hues, ranging from
creamy white to yellow to vibrant orange.
Many of the carbohydrates found in winter
squash are polysaccharides, a kind of complex
carbohydrate that adds valuable soluble fiber
to the diet. These polysaccharides not only
aid in digestion but prevents the small intestine
from absorbing dietary cholesterol. This in
turn lowers blood cholesterol levels.
Pumpkin seeds (also called pepitas) have a
unique nutritional profile all their own that
makes them one of the healthiest snacks around.
For one thing, they are a mineral powerhouse,
providing plentiful manganese, magnesium,
phosphorus, iron, copper and zinc.
To find out more about our food drive and
the benefits of chiropractic, call Dr. Robinson,
a chiropractor and holistic-care provider,
at (757) 588-8908 or visit us at our office
at 7400 Granby Street, Suite F in Norfolk.
Dr. Robinson is a noted health speaker. If
you would like Dr. Robinson to speak for your
organization, please call Wards Corner Chiropractic
at (757) 588-8908.