When your favourite fall squash is not the right choice

Pumpkin is renowned for its nutritional value. Despite being low in calories—with about 30 calories in 100 grams of pumpkin—it is rich in fibre, which aids digestion and provides a feeling of fullness. Pumpkin is also a valuable source of vitamins A, C, and E, which play key roles in maintaining healthy skin, eyesight, and the immune system.

Vitamins A and C act as powerful antioxidants, neutralizing free radicals and protecting cells from damage. Potassium, abundant in pumpkin, helps regulate blood pressure, contributing to heart health. Magnesium and iron support muscle and nervous system functions and also prevent anemia. All of this makes pumpkin tasty and an essential component of a daily diet.

One of the most significant advantages of pumpkin is its anti-inflammatory effects. Beta-carotene found in pumpkin helps reduce inflammation in the body. Consuming pumpkin also supports heart health thanks to its high potassium content, which helps regulate blood pressure. Pumpkin is also low in sodium, which benefits the cardiovascular system. The carotenoids in pumpkin protect the skin from harmful UV rays, and its high water content helps keep the skin well-hydrated. Additionally, pumpkin supports the immune system's health, which is especially important in autumn and winter.

Despite its many benefits, there are times when pumpkin is unsuitable or needs to be limited.

1. Pumpkin has a high glycaemic index of 75. It contains many simple sugars, so it quickly raises blood glucose levels. Therefore, it is not recommended for diabetics and people with insulin resistance. However, it doesn't need to be permanently removed from the diet. It’s important that pumpkin is part of a meal that also includes protein and fat.
2. A contraindication to eating pumpkin is taking lithium-based medications. Lithium increases serotonin release, thus having an antidepressant effect. Pumpkin can disrupt lithium excretion, leading to increased levels in the body. Therefore, people taking lithium medications should avoid consuming large amounts of pumpkin.
3. A high blood potassium level requires a low-potassium diet, and in this case, it's better to forgo pumpkin. It contains a lot of potassium, as 100 grams contains about 340 milligrams. Potassium supports the cardiovascular system, but for those on a low-potassium diet, an excess of this element can be dangerous. It can lead to, among other things, heart rhythm disturbances.
4. An allergy to pumpkin is very rare. In such cases, one should avoid not only pumpkin but also its seeds and oil pressed from them.