Autumn Pumpkins: Not Just For Decoration (They Contain 15 Bone-Building Nutrients!) - Save Our Bones

Nothing says “autumn” like beautiful, orange pumpkins piled high at farmers markets and grocery stores. Some are as small as grapefruits; others are larger than manhole covers! Because of their beauty, it’s easy to think of pumpkins as purely decorative. But don’t let those lovely pumpkins go to waste!

You see, pumpkins are a rich source of many important bone-healthy nutrients. They yield delicious flesh and crunchy, edible seeds, which are alkalizing and full of vitamins and minerals that infuse your bones with nutrients they need to thrive.

Other than pumpkin pie, you may be wondering how to prepare this seasonal gourd. So I’ve developed three scrumptious pH-balanced recipes to share with you today.

What’s In A Pumpkin?

Here are the vitamins and minerals in pumpkins:

Vitamin A

One cup of mashed, cooked pumpkin has 12,231 IU of this vitamin. There are multiple constituents to Vitamin A, including lutein and various carotenes. Beta-carotene is the best-known of these nutrients. Your body converts beta-carotene into Vitamin A, which promotes healthy liver and kidney function.

Beta-carotene is sometimes called the “sunscreen nutrient” because of its skin-protective qualities.

Vitamin C*

There are 11.5 milligrams of Vitamin C in a cup of mashed pumpkin. Vitamin C is crucial for immune system function, and it is necessary for the formation of collagen, a protein that forms the flexible part of bone. Collagen is necessary for healthy skin and cartilage as well.

Vitamin C is an antioxidant as well, and it actually plays a direct role in bone remodeling by suppressing osteoclasts and stimulating osteoblasts. Vitamin C works with Vitamin D, and research has shown that a deficiency in both of these vitamins is more detrimental to bone than a deficiency in just one of them.

Choline*

At 15.2 milligrams per cup, pumpkin flesh is a good source of this little-known B vitamin. Human cell membranes depend on choline for the proper formation of their structural components.

Other B vitamins in pumpkin include:

Niacin (B3)*, Riboflavin (B2)*, and Thiamin (B1)*

Niacin releases energy from carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, and riboflavin is required for the regeneration of glutathione, the Master Antioxidant. Thiamin supports the metabolism of carbohydrates, and is necessary for normal functioning of the nervous system.

One cup of pumpkin has 1 milligram of niacin, .2 of riboflavin, and .1 of thiamin.

Folate*

Another B vitamin, folate is the naturally occurring form of synthetic folic acid (B9). It is essential for the metabolism of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, of which your bones are partially composed. Folate is anti-inflammatory, prevents anemia, and is involved in nucleic acid metabolism primarily by producing genetic material from precursors. Because of this, folate is able to help reverse the aging process at the genetic level.

Vitamin E

Providing 2 milligrams per cup, which is 10 percent of the US RDA, pumpkin is a good source of this powerful antioxidant/vitamin. Vitamin E helps build muscle tissue, a vital aspect of building bone. Strong muscles, after all, are necessary for the proper stimulation of bone growth via exercise.

Minerals In Pumpkin:

Calcium*

This bone-building mineral needs no introduction! While many vitamins and minerals work in synergy to produce strong bones, calcium is one of the most crucial of them all. It is the primary mineral that handles bone strength, and it is one of the first alkalizing minerals to be leeched from bone in the body’s attempt to correct acidosis, or a highly acidic body environment brought on by an acid-forming diet.

You’ll find 36.7 milligrams of calcium in one cup of mashed pumpkin.

Magnesium*

A cup of pumpkin provides 22 milligrams of magnesium, a mineral that is every bit as important as calcium in rejuvenating bone. This amazing mineral is a cofactor in more than 300 enzymatic processes, and it regulates a number of vital body functions, such as the synthesis of protein and the function of nerves and muscles. With magnesium deficiency a rampant problem, it is a good idea to include lots of magnesium-rich foods in your diet.

Potassium

This same cup of mashed, cooked pumpkin offers 564 milligrams of this powerfully alkalizing electrolyte mineral. Potassium works to balance sodium in the body, correcting the sodium-heavy imbalance so prevalent in industrialized nations today.

Copper*, Manganese*, and Zinc*

These three trace minerals are listed together because they work as a trio to promote healthy bones. Together, they make up the chemical structure of Superoxide Dismutase, a bone-protective antioxidant that is essential for preventing bone loss.

Pumpkin flesh contains .2 milligrams of copper and manganese, and .6 of zinc.

Pumpkin seeds also contain this powerful trio, and many of the other bone-building nutrients mentioned above.

*Foundation Supplement

Polyphenols in Pumpkin:

Besides providing high levels of beta-carotene, pumpkin is a rich source of several polyphenols, including, lutein and zeaxanthin, both of which reduce the risk of macular degeneration and cataracts.

How To Prepare A Whole Pumpkin

Instead of choosing canned pumpkin, which may contain unhealthy amounts of sugar, salt, and other additives, you can prepare your own mashed, pureed pumpkin. Here’s how.

First, choose a small pumpkin (or several small ones). A six-inch pie pumpkin will yield about 2 ½ cups of mashed pumpkin. Then follow these steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.
  2. Using a serrated knife, cut the pumpkin in half lengthwise. You may want to remove the stem first.
  3. Scrape out the seeds and fibrous mass surrounding them. Your best bet is to use a grapefruit spoon for this. Save the seeds to make into delicious, crunchy pumpkin seeds that are rich in bone-smart nutrients.
  4. Cut the pumpkin halves in half again, and then cut the resulting fourths into two or three pieces.
  5. Place the pumpkin pieces in a shallow baking dish, skin side up.
  6. Pour in enough water just to cover the bottom of the dish.
  7. Cover the dish and bake at 325 for about 45 minutes, or until the flesh is soft and can be poked easily with a fork. Add a little more water if necessary.
  8. Allow the cooked pieces to cool, and then scoop the flesh away from the skin with a serving spoon. It should easily lift away from the rind.
  9. Mash the pulp with a fork for a chunky consistency, or place in the blender for a smooth puree.

Now you are ready to try these three delectable recipes!

Pumpkin “Ice Cream” Pie

Servings: 8 to 10
pH-balanced

Here’s an alternative to traditional pumpkin pie that will be sure to please ice-cream lovers and pumpkin pie-lovers alike.

Ingredients:

Crust:

  • 1 cup chopped dates
  • 1 cup whole, raw almonds
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • Virgin coconut oil

Filling:

  • 4 cups plain, organic Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup honey (adjust to taste)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup pureed pumpkin
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon each ground ginger, cloves, and nutmeg

Directions for crust:

  1. In a blender or food processor, whirl almonds until they form a fine meal consistency. Add the dates, pinch of salt, and vanilla, and grind/pulse until the mixture becomes a ball.
  2. Oil a nine-inch pie plate with the coconut oil.
  3. Press the date-almond mixture evenly onto the bottom and sides of the pie plate, cover, and place in the freezer while you prepare the filling. Crust should be in the freezer for at least 90 minutes; if you finish the filling before then, cover and refrigerate the filling until the crust is frozen.

Directions for filling:

  1. Using an electric mixer, blend the honey with the yogurt. Add the pumpkin, blend well, and mix in the vanilla and spices.
  2. Remove the crust from the freezer and pour in the filling.
  3. Cover and freeze until firm, which will take at least two hours. To make cutting into servings easier, dip a sharp knife into hot water before slicing.

Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal (While You Sleep)

Servings: 2
pH-balanced

Wake up to already-prepared, spiced, creamy oatmeal with this recipe.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk
  • ½ cup mashed or pureed pumpkin
  • 1 large, ripe banana, mashed
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg)
  • Pinch of sea salt

Directions:

  1. Simply combine all ingredients in a glass container with a lid – a jar or food storage container works fine – and give the mixture a good stir or shake.
  2. Place the container in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, you can eat the softened oatmeal cold or gently heat it up. Top it with a little honey if you like.

Flourless Pumpkin Mini Muffins

Servings: 12 muffins
pH-balanced

These tasty little flourless muffins are almost bite-sized, making them perfect for snacking. If you do not have a mini muffin tin, you can use a regular-sized tin; it will just make fewer muffins, and you’ll need to increase the baking time.

Ingredients:

  • 1 large, ripe banana
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup pureed pumpkin
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • ¼ cup chopped dates
  • ¾ cup unsweetened almond milk
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder

Directions:

  • Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Oil your muffin tins with coconut oil.
  • Using an electric mixer, blend all of the wet ingredients until smooth. Add in the dry ingredients – oats, spices, dates, and baking powder – and mix well.
  • Fill muffin cups with the mixture – it’s okay to go all the way to the brim, as these mini muffins will puff up above the rims.
  • Bake for 12 to 15 minutes (20 to 25 minutes if using regular-size muffin tins), or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool thoroughly before removing muffins from the tin.

Creative Ways To Use Pumpkin And Other Bone-Healthy Foods

Pumpkin can also be used as a substitute for sweet potatoes and carrots. In Bone Appétit, the companion cookbook to the Osteoporosis Reversal Program, you’ll find more creative pumpkin dishes. Curried Pumpkin Bisque (page 47) is a savory dish that includes tomatoes, scallions, and green peppers. Superb Pumpkin Casserole (page 72) features small chunks of pumpkin flesh cooked in a creamy plain yogurt base.

As you can see, pumpkin is surprisingly versatile! The good news is, so are many other bone-healthy foods. Bone Appétit will show you exciting new ways to prepare nutritious foods that are delicious, creative, and full of bone-rejuvenating nutrients.

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Till next time,

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Comments on this article are closed.

  1. Kathy

    In New Zealand we grow a number of varieties of pumpkin(not the hard skinned variety) and it is eaten as a regular vegetable. It is a favourite when roasted like potatoes or sweet potatoes(kumera). Pumpkin is used as a savoury food not a dessert food so we eat it two or three times a week.

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Sounds delicious, Kathy! Enjoy!

  2. Rosemary Hamp

    Hi Vivian! What is your opinion on stem cell injections for treating severe osteo-arthritis please? This form of using one’s own blood is being offered locally here in Perth, West. Australia by an experienced Doctor and if you would approve of it then I might consider having the injections. Would appreciate your advice please. With grateful thanks, Rosemary.

    • Save Institute Customer Support

      Dear Rosemary,

      We’re happy to help you out with your questions, so please check your email inbox within the next 48-72 hours.

      In excellent health,
      Customer Support

  3. Elizabeth Di Blasio

    Hello Vivian!

    I truly enjoyed all that you say regarding pumpkin- the many health- benefits! Henceforth it will certainly be on my menu !
    I frequently eat zucchini.. My late mother was born in Italy and her meals consisted of fresh vegetables…. fresh fruit…. seafood…. fresh poultry from a special farm where the chickens run! Mediterranean Diet.
    As for pumpkin, I never thought of eating it …. I used it only for Halloween !
    I thank you so much for bringing it to our attention, henceforth, It will be on my menu!

    My very best regards,

    Elizabeth Di Blasio

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      You’re welcome, Elizabeth. Enjoy!

  4. Christine Foulkes-Taylor

    Thank you for all your information Vivian. Can you tell me what is the best way to prepare pumpkin seeds for eating?

  5. joy markman

    Hi Vivian, you are fantastic, thank you for all these delicious articles, especially the one on healthy chocolate!

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      You are welcome, Joy! I enjoyed the chocolate post myself. 🙂

  6. Roma Lester

    You are always advertising free booklets and I have asked for these from time to time, but never received anything.

    Also what do you know about the 6-monthly injection Prolia?

    Thanks

    • Save Institute Customer Support

      Hi Roma,

      The free booklets we offer are delivered in downloadable format. Check your inbox for a message from Customer Support for more on this. 🙂

  7. Sue

    These recipes sound lucious! I have two large pumpkins on my front stoop, but for convenience can we use canned pumpkin? I keep the pumpkins out front until Thanksgiving and want to give the recipes a try asap!

    Thanks for all your advice and recipes over the years, Vivian. I look forward to the emails.

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Hi Sue,

      You can certainly use canned pumpkin, but it will likely not be as nutritious due to the high level of processing. Remember to look for BPA-free cans and organic pumpkin without additives. 🙂

  8. Maria

    I made the muffins this morning, and they’re absolutely delicious! Thank you so much for giving us these yummy recipes.

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      You are welcome, Maria!

  9. Sonia Villacres

    Dear Vivian , can you give me your advice about bonexcin? Tks.

    • Suzy

      Hi, Sonia. It looks like Bonexcin is mostly calcium phosphate. I believe that’s non-organic (i.e., a mineral), and Vivian doesn’t recommend that form of calcium. [She highly recommends plant-based calcium, however.] You can do a search of her webpage to see all the articles she has about calcium and its many forms. Good luck!
      – Suzy

      • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

        Well said, Suzy! Thank you.

  10. Linda

    And there’s nothing yummier than pumpkin soup. I had some for lunch today.

  11. Leona Yahata

    I am finding it difficult to order my Bone Density program.
    I tried 3 times and my visa information is not registering.
    Can you give me a phone number to call and put in my order.
    Thank you,
    Leona

    • Save Institute Customer Support

      Hi Leona,

      I’m sorry you’re having trouble placing your order! Please check your inbox for a message from Customer Support, and we will be glad to help you out. 🙂

  12. Corinne

    Do they sell pureed pumpkin in cans without BPA? I would love to try the recipes but would like to simplify things. I know that BPA is bad for our haelth, so I avoid it as much as I can. Thank you.

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Hi Corinne,

      A lot of organic companies sell canned foods in BPA-free cans. I suggest you check with your local health food store or grocery store to see if pumpkin specifically is sold in BPA-free cans.

  13. Laura

    Vivian, I can’t wait to try those recipes! Thank you (and thanks for all the information on pumpkins… I never knew they were so good for our bones).

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      You are welcome, and enjoy the recipes!

  14. Suzie

    Thanks for the article Vivian! Very informative!

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      You’re very welcome, Suzie!

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