Why You Should Feel Guilt Free This Thanksgiving

When we think of pumpkin pie, we think of Thanksgiving and now that Thanksgiving is past, you may be feeling guilty about your pumpkin consumption. The truth is you don't have to feel guilty! Pumpkin pie is extremely healthy and there's no reason why it should only be eaten once or twice a year!

Pumpkin is extremely low in fat and calories as well as it is rich in disease fighting properties. It's packed full of alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, fiber, vitamins C and E, potassium, magnesium and pantothenic acid. Alpha and beta-carotene are potent antioxidants. Pumpkin promotes healthy vision and ensures proper immune function. It can also help reverse the signs of aging in skin while reducing the risk of cataract growth and tumor growth. Because pumpkin is high in fiber, it can also help reduce levels of bad cholesterol. Pumpkin also contains potassium, which can help make bones stronger and aids in energy production. Finally, pumpkin can help boost the immune system and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Cinnamon is also extremely good for lowering levels of cholesterol. In fact, researchers have proven that consuming just half a teaspoon of cinnamon a day can make a difference! Cinnamon is also extremely beneficial to people with type II diabetes, because it can help regulate blood sugar levels. Some studies show that cinnamon has the ability to stop medication-resistant yeast-infections. It can also help keep blood from clotting. One final interesting fact about cinnamon is that it naturally inhibits bacterial growth and food spoilage, so it is a natural food preservative.

Ginger has been used for hundreds of years to settle stomach ailments, reduce headaches and as a natural soothing agent.

As far as good health goes, cloves are often overlooked in Western medicine, however, cloves have powerful medicinal properties. Cloves are full of antiviral, antibacterial and antiseptic properties. Before there were dentists and modern medicine, individuals packed ground cloves in a sore tooth to reduce toothache. Cloves also help blood circulation and the digestive system (like ginger, cinnamon and pumpkin).

Overall, pumpkin pie is extremely healthy. Because most of the ingredients promote and aid digestion, the pie makes a great end to a hearty Thanksgiving meal, so the next time you stuff yourself silly at Thanksgiving, don't forego eating that savory piece of pumpkin pie, because it's actually quite healthy (in reasonable quantities).