Purely Pumpkin
Health Notes from Dr. Liz
Making their traditional appearance this time of year with ghoulishly carved faces, pumpkins also should make a showing on the dinner table for a boost to heart health. Pumpkins are packed with a staggering 10,000 milligrams of carotenes in a half-cup mashed (either made from fresh pumpkins or scooped right out of a can). These compounds, which act as antioxidants, help protect heart health by keeping the “bad” LDL cholesterol from damaging artery walls. Cooked pumpkin also supplies potassium and fiber, both crusaders for heart health.