Image: ThinkstockIf the first talk of pumpkin spice lattes gets you giddy, you're not alone. Many food companies rolled out their seasonal items earlier than ever this year, thanks to our country's penchant for pumpkin foods.
The good news: pumpkins are your friend. “Remember, it’s actually a vegetable,” says Jaclyn London, a New York City-based registered dietician, “and it’s a high-quality one at that. Unlike some other produce, you don’t even need to buy pumpkin in its freshest form to reap the benefits.” And the benefits are many. One cup of canned pumpkin contains a mere 83 calories, 1 gram of fat, and 7 grams of fiber, while providing vitamins and minerals—potassium, magnesium, iron, vitamins C and E—that boost immunity and lower blood pressure. “It’s an incredibly versatile, heart-healthy flavoring option,” says London.
The bad news: Many processed “pumpkin” treats contain very little of the real thing, packing tons of sugar, saturated fat, and empty calories in its place. If you want to enjoy the taste of the orange superfood and avoid resembling one, read on for a list of the best and worst pumpkin treats in the land.
And for more smart ways to save calories without sacrificing flavor, check out Eat This, Not That! Skinny Comfort Foods
No comments:
Post a Comment