Calorie content of steamed pumpkin. Chemical composition and nutritional value.

Pumpkin is a healthy food product that can rightfully be called a natural multivitamin. All substances that make up the bright pulp do not lose their benefits even during heat treatment. In addition, pumpkin seeds are another source of health. It is recommended not to throw them away, but to dry them and save them: in the spring they will help prevent vitamin deficiency and other health problems.

Decorative varieties of this plant can decorate the interior and delight the eye with their bright colors and impeccable shapes. Back in the old days, when sweets such as ice cream and chocolates were rare, a piece of baked sweet pumpkin was considered a real delicacy. The secret of the longevity of our ancestors can be explained by the fact that their daily diet was rich in healthy foods. Without having any special knowledge, they, relying on personal experience, were convinced of the beneficial effects of pumpkin on the body.

A little history

Content:

• A little history
• How it grows
• Compound
• Beneficial features
• Medicinal recipes
• Is it possible to retain beneficial properties after processing?
• Benefits of pumpkin juice
• Benefits of pumpkin seeds
• Benefits of pumpkin oil
• Pumpkin in cooking
• Application in cosmetology
• For weight loss
• Contraindications and harm

Pumpkin is an ancient crop. It came to Europe in the 19th century from Central America after potatoes and tobacco. Today, more than 20 varieties of this vegetable are known, differing in taste, color and size.

In many countries, pumpkin is rightfully considered the queen of vegetables. The American Indians were of the opinion that it was a cosmic eye connecting man with the Universe. The British believed that when sowing a pumpkin on Holy Friday, an oak tree would grow.

Calorie content of pumpkin seeds

If the taste of the pumpkin itself seems unusual to some, then everyone usually loves the seeds. Moreover, they are recommended as a natural medicine for diseases of the cardiovascular and digestive systems. Pumpkin seed fiber cleanses the body and saturates it well. And its anthelmintic properties are known to everyone. But do lovers of pumpkin delicacy know that its calorie content is very high? Due to the oils contained in 100 grams of seeds - 556 calories! Therefore, pumpkin seeds, the benefits and harms of which are inseparable, should be consumed with caution by those on a diet. Like nuts, you can eat a lot of them.

A vegetable with a bright appearance has a bright taste. Decorate not only your home with it, but also the healthy menu of your loved ones.

How it grows

Pumpkin is a dioecious, monoecious, annual herbaceous plant. It has a very powerful root system, which consists of a main tap root, the penetration depth of which is 1–1.7 m, and small, lateral, adventitious suction roots. Their main part is located at a depth of 40–50 cm, while other roots can penetrate 4–5 m deep. Lateral horizontal branches of the roots from the stem can spread over a radius of 4–5 m or more. The roots of one plant can have a total length of up to 25 km.

The creeping stem of a pumpkin can grow up to 4–5 m. First-order shoots come from the main stem, and second-order shoots from them, etc.

The leaves of the plant are quite large, have long stalks, and can reach up to 25 cm in diameter. Flowers and tendrils appear in the axils of each leaf. Varieties that are more resistant to drought and heat are characterized by the presence of a highly demarcated leaf blade. In some of them, aerenchyma can form - air-bearing tissue under the epidermis, the purpose of which is to protect the leaf from overheating. Some gardeners may mistakenly mistake areas of aerenchyma on the leaf surface for traces of disease.

The plant has large flowers of orange or yellow color. Female flowers can differ in size, color and shape, depending on the variety and type of pumpkin. The flowers are predominantly solitary, unisexual, but hermaphrodite can also be found. The number of male flowers exceeds the number of female flowers by 20–25 times. Females are more often located on the side braids of the first order, and males - on the main stem.

The fruit of the plant is a multi-seeded false berry (pumpkin), reaching large sizes and having different colors and shapes (from serpentine to round). The seed cavity of the pumpkin contains placentas with seeds. The pulp of the plant is distinguished by a variety of colors - from reddish-yellow and orange to cream and white. For most varieties, fruits can weigh 4–10 kg, for large-fruited ones - about 100 or even 200 kg. Their diameter can reach up to 1 m.

The seeds are covered with a peel or they are bare, ellipsoidal in shape, of different colors and sizes (depending on the variety). They are able to remain viable for 4–5 years. Pumpkin is a moisture- and heat-loving plant: germination of its seeds begins at +13–14 °C, but the most favorable temperature for this can be considered +20–25 °C. The vegetable is extremely sensitive to temperature changes at an early age: it dies at -1 °C. The growth of lashes and stems occurs at a temperature not lower than +12–15 °C, and the optimal temperature for fruit development is considered to be +25–27 °C.

Compound

The pumpkin fruit consists of peel (about 17% of the total mass), pulp (up to 73%) and seeds (about 10%). Pumpkin is a natural source of many important minerals and vitamins that have beneficial effects on the body.

Table 1 “Chemical composition of pumpkin” [1]

The energy value of pumpkin is 22 kcal.

Boiled pumpkin

Pumpkin is a valuable melon crop with a rich chemical composition. It is very easy to prepare at home. Boiled pulp makes excellent porridges, soups, and purees for baby food. The advantage of this method of culinary processing is the preservation of the beneficial qualities inherent in the raw vegetable.

Benefits and harms

Pumpkin contains a lot of useful elements that have a beneficial effect on all systems of the human body.

Vitamin T, which is found in large quantities in pumpkin, helps digest meat, legumes, and vegetables with a high content of coarse fiber.

Copper, iron, calcium, cobalt and zinc increase hemoglobin, strengthen bones, and strengthen the immune system.

Fiber accelerates the elimination of toxins and cholesterol and helps reduce excess weight.

Boiled pumpkin is suitable for baby food from an early age. The bright orange shade attracts the attention of little ones. Mashed potatoes, cereals and soups are often liked by little picky eaters. They perfectly saturate and replenish vitamins and minerals.

Boiled pulp helps pregnant women fight edema. This is facilitated by potassium, which gently and safely removes excess fluid from tissues.

Boiled pumpkin masks can replace many expensive cosmetic products. They fill the skin with moisture, nourish, vitaminize and smooth out the network of fine wrinkles.

In addition to its beneficial effects on the body, boiled pumpkin can harm people suffering from:

• diabetes mellitus (the pulp contains a lot of sucrose and fructose, which lead to sharp jumps in insulin);
• ulcerative lesions of the gastrointestinal tract in the acute stage;
• chronic diarrhea (pumpkin has a laxative effect).

Reference . The ban on pumpkin for stomach ulcers applies more to the raw vegetable. Boiled pulp is allowed to be consumed in small quantities.

Compound

The pulp of boiled pumpkin contains almost the same nutrients as the raw vegetable:

• vitamin A - useful for myopia, supports healthy teeth, skin, nails and hair;
• B vitamins - normalize sugar levels, strengthen the immune system, increase resistance to stress, improve the functioning of the digestive tract;
• vitamin D - forms and strengthens bones, inhibits the development of cancer cells, invigorates;
• vitamin K - prevents the leaching of minerals from bones;
• vitamin PP - normalizes the state of the nervous system;
• Vitamin T - helps digest food;
• iron - increases hemoglobin;
• magnesium - regulates the functioning of the heart muscle;
• cobalt - responsible for hematopoiesis;
• zinc - rejuvenates, relieves inflammation of the prostate gland, relieves sexual dysfunction;
• copper - helps the body absorb iron.

KBJU and glycemic index

Nutrients:

• proteins – 1 g;
• fats – 1 g;
• carbohydrates – 4.4 g.

How many calories are in boiled pumpkin? Per 100 g of pulp - only 28 kcal.

Glycemic index of boiled pulp is 75 units. This is a fairly high figure, so diabetics are advised to consume pumpkin in limited quantities. For them, the beneficial effect of pumpkin on the pancreas is especially noteworthy.

Reference . The glycemic index (GI) is an indicator that displays the rate at which blood sugar levels increase when specific foods are consumed. The body absorbs fast carbohydrates quickly. The jumping glucose level signals the pancreas to produce a portion of insulin.

Beneficial features

Pumpkin is a very healthy product. This is an almost waste-free vegetable, because both pulp and seeds can be used for food.

The high potassium content strengthens blood vessels and also improves cardiac activity [2].

A successful combination of potassium and magnesium is beneficial for women who care about their figure. This combination will help the body get rid of excess water and, as a result, cellulite. For the same reason, pumpkin puree is recommended for people who suffer from edema associated with kidney pathology.

Pumpkin is rich in iron, so it should be included in the diet of people with anemia [3]. This mineral is found not only in the pulp of the vegetable, but also in its seeds. By consuming several handfuls of seeds daily, you can satisfy the body's daily need for this microelement. Iron plays an important role in the activity of the immune system, the formation of interferon and phagocytes, so dishes made from this vegetable are very relevant during epidemics of ARVI and influenza.

The zinc present in pumpkin takes part in building the skeletal system. It is not for nothing that village women who regularly use this healthy product are less likely to encounter cases of age-related osteoporosis than city women of the same age.

The content of zinc in the body of men is directly related to potency. With its deficiency, sexual weakness occurs. Therefore, women who expect feats from their men in bed need to feed them dishes with the addition of pumpkin.

Pumpkin is a dietary vegetable. Due to the low content of organic acids and coarse fiber in the pulp, it can be used for inflammatory diseases of the intestines and stomach [4].

Any ophthalmologist will confirm that vitamin A, contained in large quantities in pumpkin, prevents vision deterioration. Dishes made from this vegetable are recommended for people who spend a long time at the computer: it helps compensate for high visual stress. Vitamin A, also known as retinol, has another useful property - it helps prevent the occurrence of cancer. Since pumpkin is also a source of natural beta-carotene, these substances together make it possible to fight back the emergence of any neoplasms. Doctors advise people with a hereditary predisposition to cancer to take courses of multivitamins that contain beta-carotene and vitamin A. We must not forget that the absorption of retinol occurs best with fats, therefore, when preparing porridge, it is advisable to cook it in milk or add it to it vegetable or butter.

This vegetable is enriched with rare vitamin T, which is very important for the body. It helps the digestive organs cope with the digestion of fatty foods and prevents obesity [5]. That is why it is recommended to serve pumpkin puree as a side dish for beef and pork dishes. This is especially true for people with metabolic disorders who easily gain extra pounds.

The powerful natural antioxidant vitamin E contained in pumpkin in large quantities allows you to maintain the proper level of elasticity, freshness and firmness of the skin. It is useful for women planning pregnancy, because it is due to vitamin E deficiency that female infertility can occur.

Pumpkin is very rich in fiber - a real “broom” for the intestines, removing everything unnecessary. There is a direct connection between the strength of the immune system and healthy intestinal activity. Therefore, by using pumpkin to support intestinal function without constipation and other problems, you can avoid many diseases that arise as a result of a weakened immune system.

Pumpkin contains a lot of pectin, which helps remove chlorides and “bad” cholesterol from the body. Many medicines for removing radionuclides from the body include pumpkin pulp extract. It is recommended to be consumed by patients who suffer from diseases associated with high salt content in the body: gout, rheumatism, osteochondrosis.

Due to its ability to remove toxins and excess salts from the body, pumpkin is useful for kidney and liver diseases. Consumption of this vegetable, especially in the form of freshly squeezed juice, can improve a person’s health during exacerbation of colitis, cholecystitis, and cholelithiasis.

In addition, pumpkin produces a slight antiemetic effect, so it is recommended to be eaten by women during pregnancy: this product copes well with the manifestations of toxicosis without harm to health. The pumpkin diet is also effective for seasickness.

Pumpkin porridge, due to its high content of vitamins and minerals, is extremely useful in baby food. Pediatricians recommend more often preparing dishes with the addition of this vegetable for children who suffer from hyperactivity: it can calm the child’s nervous system.

Calorie content of pumpkin puree soup per 100 grams

Calorie content of pumpkin puree soup per 100 grams is 60 kcal. 100 g of dish contains 2.4 g of protein, 3.2 g of fat, 7.6 g of carbohydrates.

Interesting: Calorie content of raisins per 100 grams

Pumpkin soup puree brings great benefits to the body, including the beneficial properties of this dish:

• normalization of heart function;
• cleansing the kidneys and liver of toxins;
• activation of metabolism;
• benefits for vision;
• calming effect on the nervous system.

Medicinal recipes

• For hepatitis and other liver diseases, the following recipe will be useful. A glass of pumpkin seeds must be dried, crushed in a blender, and poured with a glass of olive oil. Then you need to boil everything in a water bath, cool and leave for seven days in a dark place. Strain everything and drink three times a day before meals.
• To prepare a remedy for prostatitis, you need to grind two glasses of unpeeled fresh seeds in a blender, add a glass of honey to them and mix everything. Form the mixture into balls the size of a quail egg and place them in the refrigerator. Dissolve one ball every day half an hour before meals.
• For insomnia, use the following recipe: cut 100 g of pumpkin pulp into cubes, sprinkle it with sugar and eat it an hour before bedtime. Sugar can be replaced with honey.
• If you have problems with urination, it is recommended to eat pumpkin porridge three times a day.
• To prepare a remedy for the treatment of anemia, cut the pumpkin into cubes, add a glass of water, add herbs and a teaspoon of olive oil to this mixture. Next, you need to simmer everything and consume it three times a day.

Is it possible to retain beneficial properties after processing?

Pumpkin can be used in any form: raw, baked, boiled, frozen. Fresh pulp is considered the most effective, but the frozen product is also able to retain almost all the beneficial properties, and it can be used at any time of the year due to the possibility of long-term storage.

The beneficial substances of the vegetable are preserved even when it is baked. Baked pumpkin has diuretic, laxative and choleretic effects. First of all, it is useful for people suffering from cardiovascular diseases and excess weight: this dish can significantly reduce the load on the heart. The vegetable can be baked in small pieces or whole, in the peel.

The Persian physician Avicenna wrote about the medicinal properties of boiled pumpkin [6]. He considered it an excellent remedy for treating lung diseases and old coughs. To prepare it, you need to divide the fruit into two parts, remove the seeds and cut into medium-sized pieces. Then you need to put everything in boiling water, add salt and cook for half an hour.

There is another opportunity to preserve the beneficial properties of the vegetable - it can be dried. When dried, pumpkin gives strength during physical activity, has a beneficial effect on the digestive system, and strengthens memory. And most importantly, it is a semi-finished product that practically does not require additional processing.

Benefits of pumpkin juice

From pumpkin you can get healthy juice with a thick consistency and a pleasant honey taste, which retains almost all the substances necessary for the body. In addition to a rich set of minerals and vitamins, it has pronounced antioxidant properties. During a flu epidemic or the threat of a cold, it is recommended to drink 200 ml of pumpkin juice every morning to boost immunity. Due to its concentration, it helps well with increased nervous excitement, hemorrhoids, constipation, and vomiting. In addition, this juice can also be used to remove kidney stones.

The benefit of the drink also lies in its high pectin content, due to which it has restorative and rejuvenating effects. These abilities have found application in cosmetology. Pumpkin juice lotion helps eliminate skin redness, copes well with acne, and ensures skin regeneration at the cellular level. However, people who have increased stomach acidity should not abuse pumpkin juice, since it is the pectin in its composition that contributes to heartburn and nausea.

A freshly squeezed drink is recommended for people suffering from seasonal depression. It's all about the successful combination of vitamin C with almost all B vitamins. This combination allows, on the one hand, to relieve fatigue, increase tone, give strength, and on the other, calm the nervous system.

Pumpkin juice is useful for people with blood clotting disorders. Vitamin K present in the drink will help eliminate this problem. Its deficiency is especially acute in old age.

Benefits for weight loss

For weight loss and cleansing the body, pumpkin is an indispensable product. Girls in pursuit of a slim figure choose a variety of methods, and pumpkin diets are no exception. However, the best diet is proper nutrition. Only a properly structured diet and physical activity will help achieve good results.

If you decide to use pumpkin in your diet at the weight loss stage, give preference to dishes made from fresh vegetables. For example, fresh salads and cold cream soups are great options. Pumpkin cocktails and smoothies will be a good source of vitamins after a workout, so take pre-prepared fresh juice with you. In addition to pumpkin, choose your favorite fruits and vegetables.

We have already mentioned earlier that pumpkin has a beneficial effect on the intestines, therefore, at the stage of weight loss, the vegetable is used as a cleansing component, taken on an empty stomach.

The main thing is to remember that with the pumpkin diet you can only drink green tea, pumpkin juice and still water.

If you cannot give up coffee, drink the drink no more than once a day. It is recommended to drink coffee, like tea, without sugar.

But how do you take pumpkin for weight loss? There are a few rules to remember:

• Every day you need to drink a glass (200 ml) of pumpkin juice on an empty stomach, preferably 20 minutes before meals;
• drink a glass of water or green tea before meals throughout the day;
• exclude sweet fruits from the diet during the diet;
• if you feel hungry, eat pumpkin - a few pieces will be enough;
• You can't eat after six in the evening.

For main dishes, choose cereals, such as buckwheat. You should also eat several pieces of vegetables at each meal. As an alternative to the usual dishes, pumpkin soups, stews, etc. are suitable.

The pumpkin diet gives good results, the main thing is to stick to the regime.

Benefits of pumpkin seeds

Pumpkin seeds contain fatty oil (approximately 40%) and a large amount of protein. Despite their high calorie content, they are very beneficial for the body due to their high content of vitamin E, zinc, salicylic acid and other elements.

Raw seeds are rich in cucurbitin, a substance that has an anthelmintic effect. Therefore, they are advised to take half a glass on an empty stomach for the purpose of preventing or treating helminthiasis [7]. Pumpkin seeds, of course, are less effective compared to synthetic antiparasitic agents, but they have a number of advantages over them: they do not cause side effects or allergies, taste good, are accessible to everyone and are harmless. Thanks to this, such seeds can be used to eliminate an unpleasant disease in pregnant women and children. Based on pumpkin seeds, the drug “Tykveol” was created, which is used to treat liver pathologies.

Due to their high zinc content, pumpkin seeds are widely used in cosmetology (both externally and internally) for problems such as seborrhea, dandruff, acne and others. They are also recommended for use by representatives of the stronger sex, since zinc also helps increase potency and the production of male hormones.

It is necessary to take into account the fact that pumpkin seeds can sometimes harm the body. Due to their high calorie content, it is not advisable to include them in the diet of people who are prone to obesity. In addition, overuse of pumpkin seeds can cause inflammation of the gastric mucosa. This can be caused by salicylic acid contained in this product [8].

Benefits of pumpkin oil

An oil unique in its healing properties is produced by cold pressing from pumpkin seeds. It contains vitamins and microelements, as well as essential phospholipids and flavonoids of plant origin.

The introduction of such oil into the diet helps prevent atherosclerosis, neurosis, normalize hormonal levels in women and men, and remove cholesterol. A similar product is also used in cosmetology for skin and hair.

Before using pumpkin oil, it is recommended to consult a doctor, since it has a choleretic effect, and if used incorrectly (especially in large quantities) can be harmful to health.

Pumpkin and its glycemic index

The glycemic index is a relative indicator that characterizes the rate at which carbohydrates are absorbed by the body and their effect on changes in blood glucose levels.

Carbohydrates received by the body along with food are the main source of energy to maintain its vital functions. The molecules of these components have a simple structure, so they are quickly absorbed by the body.

This causes a sharp increase in blood sugar levels and provokes the release of insulin, which regulates the functioning of the pancreas. Carbohydrates belong to the group of monosaccharides.

We recommend that you read: The medicinal properties of turmeric and contraindications for use

Monosaccharides are found in sweets, baked goods, pasta, and carbonated drinks.

Excessive consumption of these products may lead to adverse effects:

• persistent feeling of hunger;
• wear and tear of blood vessels and pancreas;
• risk of diabetes.

In the absence of physical activity, simple carbohydrates in the body turn into fats and are deposited in the subcutaneous tissue.

Carbohydrates with a complex molecular structure are called polysaccharides. These include starch, glycogen, and fiber. They are slowly absorbed, so the body receives energy from them gradually and does not feel hungry for a long time.

Based on this, the glycemic index of food is determined. This indicator is measured in arbitrary units from 0 to 100. Products that contain simple carbohydrates have a high glycemic index, and products containing complex carbohydrates are classified as low in this indicator.

According to the glycemic index, products are divided into 3 groups:

• increased - more than 70 units;
• average - 56-69 units;
• reduced - up to 55 units.

This division of products was developed to organize dietary nutrition for diabetics. Now people who adhere to a healthy lifestyle are becoming interested in this issue. The glycemic index and calorie content of foods are not identical concepts.

Endocrinologists and nutritionists recommend including pumpkin in the diet for diabetics. It contains simple carbohydrates, but this product stimulates an increase in beta cells, which repair damaged areas of the pancreas.

Raw

The glycemic index of raw pumpkin is low. It is equal to 25 units. It contains more complex carbohydrates, they are slowly absorbed by the body, so pumpkin contains calories, which are also considered slow. It is more suitable for dietary nutrition. Systematic consumption of this product in its raw form reduces the risk of developing diabetes and obesity, reduces appetite, and promotes weight loss.

Boiled

After heat treatment of this product, the polysaccharides included in its composition break down into simple carbohydrates. Therefore, the glycemic index of boiled pumpkin increases to 75 units, and for a baked product it is 85 units.

We recommend that you read Growing Pineapple from the Top

Pumpkin in cooking

Pumpkin dishes are the key to good health and well-being. This product is perfectly absorbed by the human body. Most pumpkin dishes are prepared very quickly.

This vegetable is used in cooking in many countries around the world. In America, pumpkin is the main ingredient in the traditional Thanksgiving pie. In South Asia, desserts are mainly prepared from this product. In Japan, small pumpkins are used to make tempura. In Thailand, this small-sized vegetable is steamed, first stuffed with mustard. Italians often use pumpkin and cheese as a filling for ravioli.

The simplest recipe is pumpkin puree. To do this, cut it into cubes or grate it, simmer until soft under the lid, then mash it with a potato masher or spoon. To taste, the puree can be spicy, salty or sweet. You can add spices, herbs and herbs to it to diversify the taste of the dish.

Pumpkin mass can be prepared for future use and stored in the refrigerator for some time. It goes well with potatoes, tomatoes, carrots, zucchini and other vegetables, as well as meat or minced meat. You can make pies, pancakes or pies from pumpkin.

Pumpkin with chicken and lentils

Lentils are legumes and contain many microelements and vitamins. It goes well with many foods, including pumpkin.

Composition of ingredients

The main ingredients are:

• pumpkin - 1 pc. 2 kg;
• chicken breast - 500 g;
• lentils - 190 g;
• onion - 1 pc.;
• tomatoes - 200 g;
• sweet pepper - 1 pc.;
• sunflower oil - 45-60 g;
• salt, pepper - as needed;
• spices - paprika, thyme, coriander, cumin, hops-suneli - 1 tsp;
• adjika - 15 g.

Step-by-step cooking process

Cooking rules:

1. The chicken needs to be chopped and the onion cut into cubes. Heat the oil in a frying pan and fry the onion until it turns golden. Next, you need to add the meat to the frying pan, then fry for up to 5 minutes.
2. Be sure to soak the tomatoes in boiling water to remove the skin. They need to be cut into cubes and placed in a frying pan with the chicken. It is recommended to fry for about 2-3 minutes.

3. Pour chopped sweet pepper into a frying pan, simmer for 3 minutes, add adjika, spices, and salt.
4. Lentils need to be washed, poured into a frying pan with vegetables and meat, additional salt, if necessary, add water. The dish must be simmered until the water has completely evaporated.
5. The pumpkin needs to be cut by cutting off the lid and removing the seeds. Some of the pulp also needs to be removed so that the wall thickness is 1.5-2 cm.
6. The pumpkin pulp should be cut into pieces and added to the lentils in 5 minutes. until ready.
7. Lentils with meat and vegetables must be placed in a pumpkin and closed with a lid. Next, prepare foil to wrap the stuffed vegetable. The wrapped pumpkin is placed on a baking sheet greased with oil.
8. It is recommended to preheat the oven to 180°C and place the dish there. Baking duration is 1.5-2 hours. You can check readiness with a match or toothpick. At the end of the time, the pumpkin will be easily pierced with a match.
9. After heat treatment, the dish needs to rest for 10 minutes, after which it can be eaten.

How to serve

The dish is cut into pieces so that the filling and pumpkin get on the plate. When serving, the serving is decorated with herbs and green salad. You can add sauce to taste.

Application in cosmetology

Pumpkin is widely used in cosmetology. For example, rubbing your skin with a piece of pulp every morning will help get rid of acne. In addition, this ingredient is included in various face masks, some of which you can prepare yourself.

For dry skin

In 3 tbsp. l. boiled pumpkin pulp add 1 tbsp. l. olive or peach oil, mix everything thoroughly. Apply to skin for 20 minutes, then rinse with cool water.

For oily skin

Mix three tablespoons of raw pumpkin pulp with a teaspoon. honey and yolk, heat the mixture in a water bath to a temperature of 40 ° C, stirring continuously. Apply the paste to the face, except for the nasolabial triangle and the area around the eyes, for 15 minutes, then rinse with warm water. This mask is also effective for acne.

Toning mask

Grate the pulp, squeeze out the juice, moisten a cotton pad and wipe your face with it. After 10 minutes, you need to wash with warm water. Or you can apply the grated pulp for 15 minutes.

For weight loss

Pumpkin is a low-calorie vegetable, so it is often used in various diets. Regular consumption of this product helps speed up metabolism, making it easier for the body to absorb and digest food. This helps prevent possible problems with metabolism and the accumulation of fats and harmful substances in the body.

Due to its low calorie content, pumpkin dishes can be eaten every day without worrying about the possibility of gaining excess weight. The high fiber content of this vegetable allows it to be used to cleanse the body.

There is a special pumpkin diet. Its main principles are as follows [2]:

• remove salt and sugar from the diet;
• exclude alcohol and sweets;
• daily calorie content should not exceed 1200 kcal;
• food can be eaten until 18:00, excluding snacks;
• drink only coffee without adding milk, tea or still mineral water.

The diet menu can be varied; you can compose it yourself, following the above rules. You can make soups, porridges, salads from pumpkin, and eat it frozen, dried, baked or boiled.

Pumpkin porridge

Cut a small pumpkin in half, remove the seeds, trim the peel so that only the pulp remains. Then it needs to be washed and cut into cubes, 300 g of which should be poured with a glass of water and simmered for 15 minutes over low heat. Next, add 200 g of oatmeal and cook for 30 minutes without adding salt or sugar.

Pumpkin soup

Take 200 g of pumpkin, potatoes, red bell pepper and cut into cubes. Chop the greens, grate the carrots and add to the previously prepared vegetables. Then you need to add water and cook until done.

Pumpkin salad

On a coarse grater, grate the pumpkin pulp, green apple and carrots in equal parts. Mix everything, season with natural yoghurt.

Vegetable stew

Cut pumpkin, tomatoes, potatoes and eggplant into cubes in equal parts. Pour everything into a frying pan greased with olive oil, pour in 0.5 cups of water and simmer until done. Add parsley, rosemary, dill.

At the end of the diet, you need to switch to a normal diet, but be sure to limit your consumption of sweets. Under no circumstances should pumpkin be eliminated from your diet.

Pumpkin with apple in the oven

This recipe is considered the most popular, as apple and pumpkin go well together.

Composition of ingredients

To prepare the dish, use the following ingredients:

• pumpkin - 500 g;
• apples - 3-4 pcs.;
• lemon - 1 pc.;
• water - 100 ml;
• granulated sugar - 80 g;
• butter - 30 g.

It is recommended to choose sweet apples for the dish.

Step-by-step cooking process

The dish should be prepared as follows:

1. The pumpkin must first be cleared of seeds and skin, cut into cubes or cubes. It is not advisable to cut very coarsely, as it increases the baking time of the dish. The pieces should be poured onto a baking sheet lined with baking parchment.
2. Next you need to cut the apple. The fruit should be washed under running water and wiped with a napkin. Next, cut the apple in half, remove the seeds, and then chop into pieces the same size as a pumpkin. The chopped fruit is poured onto a baking sheet. If necessary, you can remove the peel from the apple.
3. After grinding the main ingredients, you need to add sugar and lemon juice. Next, mix everything with a spoon or your hands, add squeezed lemon cut into pieces, pour 100 ml of water, add pieces of butter.

4. Preheat the oven to 200°C in advance, then place a baking sheet. Baking duration is 35-40 minutes.

How to serve a dish

The dish is served on a plate. It is suitable for lunch as a dessert or instead of porridge for breakfast. The product is ideal for the holiday table.