Healthy Living

Pumpkins have long history and health benefits

Pumpkins are known for turning into Jack-o-lanterns and tasting good in holiday recipes. But, what don’t you know about them?  Pumpkin is part of the squash family – they are believed to have originated around 3500 BC in South America. David Trinklein, a horticulturalist with University of Missouri Extension, says pumpkin was a staple food of Native Americans, adopted by early settlers. A recipe from colonial America appears to be the basis of today’s pumpkin pie.