I get a wonderful feeling when I open a jar of my own pumpkin puree. Knowing exactly what went into that puree brings me joy. Save money and eat healthier!
Today as I was cutting up the pumpkin and setting the seeds to the side. I became mesmerized by the rich orange color and texture and I started thinking about all the goodness in that puree. The goodness of pure pumpkin, and the goodness of health from all the benefits of the pumpkin.
One (among many) reason to love pumpkins is the antioxidants. Beta-Carotene is the antioxidant that gives orange veggies and fruits like pumpkins their bright color. Foods rich in antioxidants are reported to help the body fight off certain cancers and diseases like diabetes. Here is one site that can tell you more if you want to learn more about the health benefits of pumpkins.
We usually stock up on pumpkins November 1st when the local pumpkin patches are liquidating after Halloween. We try to make the pumpkins last as long as we can by processing them into puree and storing the pumpkins in areas to prevent the rotting.
For our family we use the pumpkins to feed our chickens and our tortoises and sometimes the goats will partake. What I really enjoy is the puree though. I put a tablespoon on each bowl of dog food everyday. It helps with their digestion and they love it. If I forget, the dogs will just stare at me like I am forgetting something.
Occasionally I will make some pumpkin bread and let me tell you, there is a difference. Yum!
Here's a video my husband 
