1. Where did the term "pumpkin" originate?
a) in Mexico in the 1800s b) in the fairytale "Cinderella" in the 1600s
b) from a French explorer in the 1500s d) from an old Hallow's Eve story in the 1700s
2. Pumpkins do NOT contain:
a) 90% water c) 1g of fat per serving
b) more fiber than kale d) heart-healthy magnesium
3. Pumpkin juice has the following benefits for the skin:
a) vitamin C and E to keep the skin soft and radiant c) hydrating properties for youth
b) anti-oxidants to help with inflammation and irritation d) all of the above
4. Pumpkin juice is an active ingredient commonly found in what type of beauty product?
a) hair growth products c) skin moisturizers
b) weight loss products d) nail polishes
5. What would be the best combination of fall foods to eat for healthy nails?
a) pumpkin and cinnamon c) butternut squash and whole milk/cream
b) apples and carrots d) sweet potatoes and spinach
Ready for the answers? Question 1's correct response is B! Yes, we can thank Cinderella (but not Disney's Cinderella!) and her pumpkin coach for our colloquial use of the word "pumpkin." Although the word originates from the Greek word "pepon" -- meaning large melon -- the "pumpkin" we think of today (large, orange squash) became associated with the word in the 1600s.
Question 2's answer is C. Per half-cup serving, pumpkin has LESS than half a gram of fat! It is extremely high in nutrients but also fairly low in calories. Eat up!
Number 3 is D, of course! Drinking pumpkin juice is an awesome way to extract as many vitamins and minerals out of the pumpkin as possible. Plus, with just a little but of sugar and a few aromatics, it tastes awesome!
Number 4? A, believe it or not! Yes, pumpkin juice is found in many hair-growth products. Not only does it promote the growth of new hair, but the vitamins and minerals that naturally occur in this great squash will help keep your current hair shiny and strong.
Question 5 is tricky: The answer is D. Although none of these combinations are bad, sweet potatoes and spinach are both VERY high in vitamins A and C -- a great due for healthy nails.
We hope you enjoyed this brief quiz during this "pumpkin-y" month! Next time you see a pumpkin cookie or cake, think about the real fruit (yes, pumpkin is a fruit!) behind the name... and drink some pumpkin juice with your treat!
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