Four reasons why pumpkin is a superfood.

Pumpkin is not only a typical modern symbol of autumn, but it also has a number of health benefits. Let's take a look at the four most important ones - and one bonus :)

1. Pumpkin regulates digestion

Pumpkin is rich in fiber , which helps regulate digestion. It contains both soluble and insoluble fiber, which means it is suitable for dogs suffering from both diarrhea and constipation. Soluble fiber absorbs water and bulks up stool, while insoluble fiber promotes regular bowel movements and facilitates digestion. Fiber also helps regulate blood sugar levels and ensures that nutrients are absorbed gradually , which is important for maintaining a healthy body weight in dogs.

2. Contributes to healthy vision

Pumpkin is an excellent source of beta-carotene, a pigment that the body converts into vitamin A, which is essential for healthy vision. Vitamin A helps maintain healthy retinas and may help reduce the risk of eye disease in older dogs . Especially for dogs prone to eye problems such as cataracts or retinal degeneration, regular pumpkin consumption can positively impact long-term eye health.

3. Helps maintain healthy skin and coat

Thanks to its high omega-3 fatty acid content and high water content, pumpkin is great for maintaining healthy skin and a shiny coat. Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and contribute to making the skin less prone to irritation and allergies. The hydration provided by the high water content, in turn, helps prevent skin dryness and promotes coat regeneration . Pumpkin can therefore be a suitable dietary supplement for dogs that suffer from dry skin, flaking or brittle hair.

4. Contributes to longevity thanks to antioxidants

Pumpkin is rich in antioxidants , especially the aforementioned beta-carotene, which protects cells from free radical damage . This process is key to fighting aging, as free radicals can cause oxidative stress, which contributes to the development of a number of diseases, including cancer and heart disease. Regular intake of antioxidants like beta-carotene can help improve your dog's immune system and promote longevity.

Bonus: Pumpkin for Healthy Joints

In addition to the benefits mentioned above, pumpkin also contains a significant amount of vitamin C, which plays a key role in the formation of collagen , which is the essential building block for healthy joints and connective tissues. This means that dogs suffering from joint problems such as arthritis can benefit from regular consumption of pumpkin, which contributes to the regeneration and protection of their joints.

Pumpkin is simply one of the best foods to add to your dog's diet, whether in the form of treats , as a side dish, or as part of meat dishes.

Do you give your dog pumpkin? And does he like it?

Resources:

• Zafalon, RVA, et al. "Effect of digestibility, diet composition, and energy intake on pet obesity." Veterinary Sciences , 2018.
• Hall, JA, et al. "The role of beta-carotene in promoting canine health." Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition , 2019.
• Freeman, LM, et al. "Nutritional Management of Gastrointestinal Diseases in Dogs." Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice , 2017.