Pumpkin-More Than Just a Jack O’ Lantern

  Posted on September 26, 2010  by Joy of Living  No comments

With Halloween just around the corner, canned and fresh pumpkins are showing up everywhere.  As it turns out, pumpkin is a great health food for us and our pets.

Pumpkin is low in calories (40 calories per 1/2 cup), has many nutrients and fiber (3.5 grams per serving).  The first Hungry Girl book has many recipes for yummy desserts and drinks using pumpkin.  I tried one recipe for muffins that has only two ingredients, a 15 oz can of pumpkin and a devil’s food cake mix…..very good stuff!

Pumpkin can be used as an ingredient for homemade dog treats, I found a treat recipe online containing only three ingredients; canned pumpkin, powdered milk and cream of rice cereal, dogs really seem to like them!

Canned pumpkin can be used to supplement an overweight dog’s diet too by reducing the amount of food per feeding and adding pumpkin.  Your dog won’t be wondering where the rest of his food is, the fiber will help fill his tummy.

Cats with irritable bowel disorder can benefit from the fiber in pumpkin as well.  My cat Bo (contributor on this blog) LOVES it, but I have to be careful of the amount I give him daily.  I’ve been giving 1/4 per day and that amount seems to be right for him.

Pumpkin, great for jack o’ lanterns and a whole lot more!