Cook easy dishes asian flavors and taste of the orient - Asia cooking - China - Korea - Japan - Taiwan - Laos - Vietnam - Cambodia - Thailand - Burma - Malaysia - Singapore - Brunei - Indonesia - Philippines - India - Sri Lanka - Bangladesh - Nepal - Bhutan
As the vibrant color suggests, pumpkins are full of antioxidants reducing the risk of developing certain age-related diseases (including cardiovascular diseases and cancer). The compounds are the most numerous:
The beta-carotene in addition to its antioxidant action, is an excellent source of vitamin A in the body. It may also improve immune system functions.
Lutein and zeaxanthin are two carotenoids other compounds with antioxidant action. They tend to accumulate in the macula and retina of the eye to protect them from harm due to aging (including macular degeneration and cataracts).
Other carotenoids reduce the proliferation of certain cancer cells.
Some clinical studies also suggest that eating pumpkin seeds may reduce the blood glucose concentration and thus be a protective factor against hyperglycemia or diabetes.