Butternut squash, acorn squash, pumpkins, and their kin are known as "winter squash." They have a tough rind that lends them well to storage in the cold season, when they are a tasty source of several key nutrients.

Winter squash are packed with carotenoids, a class of plant compounds including beta-carotene and alpha-carotene, important because the body converts them into vitamin A. Carotenoids give the flesh of the many varieties of winter squash their distinctive hues, ranging from creamy white to yellow to vibrant orange.

Many of the carbohydrates found in winter squash are polysaccharides, a kind of complex carbohydrate that adds valuable soluble fiber to the diet. These polysaccharides not only aid in digestion but prevents the small intestine from absorbing dietary cholesterol. This in turn lowers blood cholesterol levels.

Pumpkin seeds (also called pepitas) have a unique nutritional profile all their own that makes them one of the healthiest snacks around. For one thing, they are a mineral powerhouse, providing plentiful manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, copper and zinc.

To find out more about chiropractic's drug-free, revolutionary and highly effective approach to health care, call Dr. William Groskopp. Dr. Groskopp is available to answer questions over the phone at (920) 756-2151 or via email at groskoppchiropractic.com

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