Feeling a little tired?
Feeling a little tired? Pale face? Want to sleep during the day? We’ll stop you right there: no, you aren’t becoming a vampire, you are missing some good source of beta-carotene!
One of the best sources of this energizing nutrient is, of course, pumpkin – a perfect autumn fruit. We at Jo & The Sisters decided to incorporate it into our offer for a limited time, so make sure to visit us from 28.10. to 03.11. to get your dose of pumpkin.
Pumpkins are anything but boring, so make sure to get familiar with some interesting facts about them and check out our special offer during Pumpkin Week.
What are pumpkins famous for?
Pumpkins became a symbol of Halloween due to the tradition of carving jack-o’-lanterns. This practice has its roots in Irish folklore, where people carved turnips and placed candles inside them to ward off evil spirits. When Irish immigrants brought the tradition to the United States, they discovered pumpkins were more abundant and easier to carve, leading to the modern Halloween decoration.
The glowing jack-o’-lanterns symbolize the transition from harvest season to winter and are associated with beliefs about warding off negative spirits. Today, pumpkins are a central part of October celebrations, appearing in decorations, costumes, and festive treats.
Pumpkins are also autumn symbols for practical reasons. Nature provided them just before the cold season because they can be stored for several months, making them perfect for winter recipes. They are used in soups, stews, pies, and many seasonal dishes.
Which country is the biggest fan of pumpkins?
The United States.
Pumpkins are especially popular in the USA around Halloween and Thanksgiving. States like Illinois, Indiana, and California are major producers, with Illinois known for growing some of the largest pumpkins.
Learn more about pumpkins
The most common pumpkin species is Cucurbita pepo, which includes varieties used for carving and cooking.
Another species, Cucurbita maxima, is known for its large varieties grown for weight and size, including giant pumpkins.
Cucurbita moschata is recognized for its sweet flesh and is widely used in cooking, especially for pies.
Additionally, Cucurbita argyrosperma, also known as white-seeded or gray pumpkins, offers unique culinary uses.
What do pumpkins do for your health?
Pumpkins are popular for their vibrant orange color, which comes from beta-carotene. Beta-carotene is highly beneficial for the skin because it acts as an antioxidant that protects skin cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Pumpkins are also rich in vitamins C and E, potassium, fiber, magnesium, iron, and folate – a powerful combination for overall wellbeing.
Pumpkins may symbolize the gloomy season, but their nutrients help keep you lively and energized, which perfectly fits the philosophy of Jo & The Sisters.
What are pumpkin seeds good for?
Pumpkin seeds are a great source of plant protein, making them an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans.
Their high fiber content supports digestion and gut health. Rich in antioxidants, pumpkin seeds can also reduce inflammation and help lower the risk of chronic diseases.
They contain tryptophan, an amino acid that may improve sleep quality. Some studies also suggest pumpkin seeds can support prostate health.
Pumpkin seeds are versatile and tasty. They can be eaten raw, roasted, or added to salads, granola, and baked goods, making them a popular addition to a balanced diet.
How many seeds are in a pumpkin?
A pumpkin can contain anywhere between 100 and 800 seeds, depending on its size and variety. Larger pumpkins generally contain more seeds, while smaller ones contain fewer.
The seeds are found in the fibrous pulp inside the pumpkin and vary in size and shape.
Daily intake of pumpkin seeds
You can generally eat 1 to 2 ounces (28–56 grams) of pumpkin seeds per day as part of a healthy diet. This amount provides a good balance of nutrients without excessive calories or fats.
However, tolerance may vary, so it is best to start with smaller portions. Pumpkin seeds are calorie-dense, so moderation is important.
Pumpkin Week at Jo’s and The Sisters
We jumped on the pumpkin train and created menu additions that are hard to resist.
Season your daily caffeine intake with a dash of pumpkin spice and try our Pumpkin Latte, or explore our Matcha Pumpkin version.
Our Pumpkin Granola is a crunchy dream filled with all the goodness you need for a guilt-free morning treat.
And to sweeten these cloudy autumn days, try our Pumpkin Muffin, which is as adorable as its name suggests.
So what are you waiting for?
Visit our breakfast bar in Split from October 28th to November 3rd and discover some of the best pumpkin creations for your daily menu.