Vegetables · Vegetable
Pumpkin
Cucurbita pepo, C. maxima · also called Calabaza, zapallo (Spanish); winter squash (some varieties)
Pumpkin is the orange fruit of a vine in the gourd family. The flesh is eaten cooked and is a rich source of provitamin A (beta-carotene). The only pumpkin-specific research on health is a small set of trials on blood sugar, and the authors call it inconsistent. The main cautions are beta-carotene capsules (not food) in smokers, potassium for people with kidney disease, allergy, and bitter squash, which should be thrown away.
General information, not medical advice. Last substantive update · Not medically reviewed. A named clinician has not signed off on this page. How this page is made
About Pumpkin
Pumpkin is a low-calorie orange vegetable and a rich source of provitamin A. It is a healthy food, not a proven remedy: most health claims come from studies of vegetables in general, or from capsules and by-products.
What it is
Pumpkin is the fruit of vining plants in the gourd family, mainly Cucurbita pepo and Cucurbita maxima. The orange flesh is eaten cooked. The seeds are covered on their own pages.
USDA data for raw pumpkin: 26 kcal per 100 g. One cup of raw 1-inch cubes (116 g) has about 30 kcal, 0.6 g fibre, 3.2 g sugars, 494 micrograms vitamin A (RAE), 3,596 micrograms beta-carotene, 394 mg potassium and 10 mg vitamin C. Boiled pumpkin (one cup mashed, 245 g) has about 49 kcal, 2.7 g fibre and 564 mg potassium. Plain canned pumpkin without salt (one cup, 245 g) has about 83 kcal, 7.1 g fibre and 1,906 micrograms vitamin A (RAE). A cup of canned weighs more than a cup of raw cubes, so it holds more of everything. Pumpkin pie filling or mix was not read.
What the research shows
The firmest fact is about a nutrient: pumpkin is rich in provitamin A, and vitamin A is needed for vision and skin. This is not a trial of pumpkin.
For blood sugar, a 2026 review found 9 small controlled trials of pumpkin or its by-products. The authors call the evidence inconsistent and ask for better trials.
Observational studies link vegetables and carotenoid-rich diets with less lung cancer and heart disease. People who eat more vegetables differ in other ways, so these links do not prove cause.
Food versus capsules and by-products
The capsule trials used beta-carotene (and in one trial vitamin A) at supplement amounts. Some blood sugar trials used pumpkin by-products rather than cooked pumpkin. These results do not carry over to eating pumpkin, in either direction.
Amounts
This page gives no amounts to eat. Ask a doctor, pharmacist or dietitian what is right for you, especially if you smoke, have kidney problems, take blood pressure medicine or have diabetes.
At a glance
Traditional uses history, not proof
- Eaten cooked as a vegetable in soups, purees and baking
- Long use as food is not proof that it treats any condition
Studied for research
- Provitamin A and vitamin A supply, high certainty for the nutrient, no pumpkin trial
- Blood sugar and type 2 diabetes, very low certainty (small trials, some of by-products)
- Heart disease and death (carotenoid-rich diets), low certainty, observational
- Lung cancer risk (vegetables), low certainty, observational
- Beta-carotene capsules and lung cancer in smokers, evidence against (capsules, not pumpkin)
- Blood pressure and potassium, insufficient evidence
Main compounds
- Beta-carotene
- Alpha-carotene
- Lutein and zeaxanthin
- Vitamin A (RAE)
- Potassium
- Vitamin C
Common forms
- Raw cubes and cooked (boiled or roasted) pumpkin as food
- Plain canned pumpkin (USDA: canned without salt)
- Pumpkin by-products and powders (used in some blood sugar trials, not the same as the vegetable)
- Pumpkin seeds have their own pages
Research links: MedlinePlus: Vitamin A · 2026 review: pumpkin and type 2 diabetes trials · MedlinePlus: Potassium in diet · Research Library · Genes & Biomarkers Library
What it is and its history
- Accepted scientific name
- Cucurbita pepo
- Naming authority
- L. (GBIF accepted); also Cucurbita maxima Duchesne (GBIF accepted)
- Common names
- Pumpkin (English); Calabaza (Spanish); Zapallo (Spanish)
- Family or group
- Cucurbitaceae (the gourd family), as given by GBIF.
- Classification
- Plantae > Tracheophyta > Magnoliopsida > Cucurbitales > Cucurbitaceae > Cucurbita > Cucurbita pepo
- Native range
- Not verified from a source read.
- Habitat
- Not verified from a source read.
- What it looks like
- Roots: Not verified.; Stems: Not verified.; Leaves: Not verified.; Flowers: Not verified.; Fruit: The orange flesh of the fruit is the food. USDA gives a household portion of one cup of raw 1-inch cubes as 116 g, one cup of boiled mashed pumpkin as 245 g and one cup of canned as 245 g.
- Cultivation
- Not verified from a source read.
- Harvest and processing
- Eaten cooked (boiled, roasted, in soups and purees), frozen or canned. Plain canned pumpkin and sweetened pie filling are different products (not confirmed from an official source).
- Look-alikes and adulterants
- Name: Other winter squash (such as butternut); Note: Different squash with their own pages; MedlinePlus names winter squash as a potassium source, not pumpkin specifically.; Name: Bitter ornamental or wild squash; Note: Some bitter-tasting squash are not fit to eat and have caused poisoning (French poison-centre series). Throw away any squash that tastes bitter.
- Sustainability and conservation
- Not assessed.
Photographs
What is inside, and how it may work
What it contains and how those compounds act in cells and animals. Laboratory and animal mechanisms are not proven effects in people.
Main compounds
| Compound | Family | Where it is concentrated | Activity studied | Level of evidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beta-carotene PubChem 5280489 | carotenoid | Flesh USDA: 3,100 micrograms per 100 g raw | Orange pigment the body can turn into vitamin A (MedlinePlus). Capsules raised lung cancer in smokers in two trials. 18 16 3 9 | Human data |
| Alpha-carotene PubChem 6419725 | carotenoid | Flesh USDA: 4,020 micrograms per 100 g raw | Another carotenoid; blood levels were linked to lower lung cancer risk in observational studies. 18 1 | Human data |
| Lutein with zeaxanthin PubChem 5281243 | carotenoid | Flesh USDA: 1,500 micrograms per 100 g raw | Carotenoid plant pigments measured by USDA; no pumpkin-specific effect was read. 18 | Human data |
| Vitamin A (as RAE, from provitamin A) | vitamin | Flesh USDA: 426 micrograms RAE per 100 g raw | Needed for vision, skin and the lining of the body (MedlinePlus). 18 16 | Human data |
| Potassium | mineral | Flesh USDA: 340 mg per 100 g raw | Mineral for heart and muscle function (MedlinePlus); relevant for kidney disease. 18 15 | Human data |
| Cucurbitacins (bitter squash only) PubChem 5281316 | triterpene | Fruit of bitter squash Not given in the sources read | The French poison-centre authors link bitter taste and toxicity of non-edible squash to cucurbitacins. Not described for normal pumpkin. 8 | Human data |
Mechanisms, receptors and pathways
| Target or pathway | Gene or receptor | What was found | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Provitamin A conversion | Not specified | Carotenoids such as beta-carotene are converted by the body into vitamin A; absorption is better with a little fat (MedlinePlus). 16 | Human data |
| Cucurbitacin irritation of the gut (bitter squash) | Not specified | The authors suggest the irritating effect of cucurbitacins explains the digestive symptoms from non-edible squash. 8 | Human data |
Absorption, metabolism and elimination
- Absorption
- MedlinePlus says absorption of beta-carotene sources is improved when they are eaten with a small amount of fat.
- Distribution
- Not found.
- Metabolism
- The body converts provitamin A carotenoids into vitamin A (MedlinePlus).
- Elimination
- Not found.
- Bioavailability
- Not established for pumpkin in the sources read.
Isolated compounds versus whole extracts
The harm signal in the lung cancer trials came from beta-carotene capsules (with vitamin A in one trial), not from vegetables. Observational studies of vegetables and of blood carotenoids point the other way, but they cannot show cause. Food, capsules and by-products used in diabetes trials are different products.
Nutritional composition
Nutrition from USDA FoodData Central (all SR Legacy, last updated 4/1/2019, read 2026-10-26). Raw pumpkin (FDC 168448), per 100 g: 26 kcal, 1.0 g protein, 0.1 g fat, 6.5 g carbohydrate, 0.5 g fibre, 2.76 g total sugars, about 92 g water, 21 mg calcium, 0.8 mg iron, 12 mg magnesium, 340 mg potassium, 1 mg sodium, 9.0 mg vitamin C, 16 micrograms folate (DFE), 426 micrograms vitamin A (RAE), 3,100 micrograms beta-carotene, 4,020 micrograms alpha-carotene, 1,500 micrograms lutein plus zeaxanthin, 1.06 mg vitamin E, 1.1 micrograms vitamin K, 0.127 mg copper. One cup of raw 1-inch cubes (116 g): about 30 kcal, 0.6 g fibre, 3.2 g sugars, 494 micrograms vitamin A (RAE), 3,596 micrograms beta-carotene, 394 mg potassium, 10.4 mg vitamin C, 0.15 mg copper. Boiled, drained, no salt (FDC 168449) per 100 g: 20 kcal, 1.1 g fibre, 230 mg potassium, 288 micrograms vitamin A (RAE), 2,100 micrograms beta-carotene; one cup mashed (245 g): about 49 kcal, 2.7 g fibre, 564 mg potassium, 706 micrograms vitamin A (RAE). Canned, no salt (FDC 168450) per 100 g: 34 kcal, 2.9 g fibre, 3.3 g sugars, 206 mg potassium, 5 mg sodium, 778 micrograms vitamin A (RAE), 6,940 micrograms beta-carotene; one cup (245 g): about 83 kcal, 7.1 g fibre, 505 mg potassium, 1,906 micrograms vitamin A (RAE). A cup of canned pumpkin weighs 245 g against 116 g for a cup of raw cubes, so a cup holds more of everything. Figures vary with variety, ripeness and storage. Pumpkin pie filling or mix was not read.
1 high certainty2 low certainty1 very low certainty1 not enough evidence1 evidence against
What was looked at
The 6 benefits and uses checked for Pumpkin, each with how strong the evidence is. Tap one to open it.
- Provitamin A (beta-carotene) for vitamin AHigh certainty
- Blood sugar and type 2 diabetesVery low certainty
- Heart disease and overall death (carotenoid-rich diets)Low certainty
- Lung cancer risk (vegetables, observational)Low certainty
- Beta-carotene capsules and lung cancer (not pumpkin)Evidence against
- Blood pressure and potassiumNot enough evidence
Lab markers tracked in the studies
Blood glucose and type 2 diabetes related markersHeart disease, stroke and death from any causeLung cancer casesBlood carotenoid levels
What is Pumpkin good for?
The main studied uses and how strong the human evidence is for each. Most results are for vegetables in general, for blood markers, or for capsules, not for eating pumpkin.
Benefits, one by one
Each card is a research question, not a promise. Tap a goal to filter. Open a card to see the studies, doses and limits.
Provitamin A (beta-carotene) for vitamin A
High certaintyPumpkin is an orange vegetable rich in carotenoids, plant pigments the body can turn into vitamin A. USDA lists 426 micrograms of vitamin A (RAE) in 100 g of raw pumpkin, about 494 micrograms in one cup of cubes (116 g). Vitamin A is needed for vision, skin and the lining of the body. MedlinePlus says deficiency is very rare in the United States. This is a nutrient fact, not a pumpkin trial.
5 studiesCooked or canned pumpkin as food. Values vary with variety, ripeness …
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
MedlinePlus says vitamin A helps form and maintain healthy teeth, skeletal and soft tissue, mucus membranes and skin and promotes good eyesight, especially in low light. It says provitamin A is found in plant foods, that deficiency can cause reversible night blindness and non-reversible corneal damage (xerophthalmia), and that orange and yellow vegetables and fruits are food sources (pumpkin is not named). USDA lists 426 micrograms vitamin A (RAE), 3,100 micrograms beta-carotene and 4,020 micrograms alpha-carotene per 100 g of raw pumpkin.
Results
Pumpkin is a rich provitamin A food. The vitamin A role is well accepted. No trial of eating pumpkin for vision, skin or vitamin A status was read.
Effect sizes as reported
USDA, per 100 g: raw 426 micrograms RAE (about 494 per 116 g cup of cubes); boiled and drained 288; plain canned 778. See the Overview tab.
Why this rating
High for the nutrient role and for pumpkin being a provitamin A food (health-agency statement and USDA data). No pumpkin-specific trial; a varied diet normally supplies vitamin A.
Form and dose studied
Cooked or canned pumpkin as food. Values vary with variety, ripeness and storage.
Who was studied
Anyone eating a varied diet. MedlinePlus links deficiency to too little intake or absorption.
Limits
Nutrient information, not a trial of pumpkin. It does not show that extra provitamin A helps someone who already has enough. The MedlinePlus and NHS pages do not name pumpkin.
Why researchers looked
Pumpkin is a well-known orange vegetable, so people ask whether it is a good source of vitamin A.
Traditional use
Pumpkin flesh is eaten cooked in soups, purees and baking. Long use as food is not proof that it treats any condition.
Proposed mechanism Authoritative guidance
The body converts provitamin A carotenoids, the most common being beta-carotene, into vitamin A. Absorption is improved when these foods are eaten with a small amount of fat (MedlinePlus).
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Beta-carotene food is not the same as beta-carotene capsules; see the Safety tab. Do not take vitamin A supplements without asking a clinician.
Blood sugar and type 2 diabetes
Very low certaintyA 2026 review of 9 controlled trials (316 people) of pumpkin or pumpkin products found the evidence inconsistent. The authors say pumpkin has potential as an add-on, and that better and longer trials are needed. Some of the trials used by-products, not plain cooked pumpkin.
1 studiesPumpkin or pumpkin by-products; forms and amounts are not given in th…
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
Ye and colleagues searched three databases to March 2025 and found 198 records. Nine controlled clinical trials with 316 participants were included in a qualitative review. The authors say clinical evidence on pumpkin and blood sugar is inconsistent and that pumpkin and its by-products have potential as add-on measures; more high-quality and long-term trials are needed. The abstract gives no numbers for blood sugar.
Results
Possible but unproven. The abstract gives no effect size, and the products tested were not all plain cooked pumpkin.
Effect sizes as reported
No numbers in the abstract.
Why this rating
The review is of small trials (316 people in total), the authors call the results inconsistent, and some products were by-products. We read the abstract only.
Form and dose studied
Pumpkin or pumpkin by-products; forms and amounts are not given in the abstract.
Who was studied
Adults with or without type 2 diabetes.
Limits
Abstract only: no effect sizes, trial quality or product details. Not a test of eating plain cooked pumpkin. Pie filling and sweetened products are different foods.
Why researchers looked
Pumpkin is a low-cost vegetable and has been tried in people with and without type 2 diabetes.
Traditional use
Pumpkin flesh is eaten cooked in soups, purees and baking. Long use as food is not proof that it treats any condition.
Proposed mechanism Unknown
The review abstract does not describe how pumpkin might act, so none is stated here.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Do not change diabetes medicine or diet on your own; ask your clinician.
Heart disease and overall death (carotenoid-rich diets)
Low certaintyLarge studies that follow people over time link diets and blood levels higher in carotenoids with lower heart disease, cancer and death from any cause. These are not studies of pumpkin alone, and they cannot show that carotenoids or vegetables cause the benefit.
1 studiesFruit and vegetables as food, and blood levels as markers.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
Aune and colleagues pooled 69 prospective studies. They report that dietary intake and/or blood levels of carotenoids (total, beta-carotene, alpha-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, lycopene) were inversely associated with coronary heart disease, stroke, cardiovascular disease, cancer and/or death from any cause. The abstract gives numbers for vitamin C but not for carotenoids. The authors conclude the results support eating more fruit and vegetables, but not antioxidant supplements.
Results
Higher carotenoid intake or levels went with lower risk of several outcomes in observational studies; the size of the carotenoid links is not in the abstract.
Effect sizes as reported
Carotenoid effect sizes not in the abstract.
Why this rating
Observational (prospective cohort) studies pooled; confounding by healthier habits is likely. Not specific to pumpkin.
Form and dose studied
Fruit and vegetables as food, and blood levels as markers.
Who was studied
Adults in prospective studies.
Limits
Observational. Blood carotenoids reflect many foods and habits. Carotenoid numbers not read. Does not support taking carotenoid capsules.
Why researchers looked
Pumpkin is rich in carotenoids, which researchers use as markers of fruit and vegetable intake.
Traditional use
Pumpkin flesh is eaten cooked in soups, purees and baking. Long use as food is not proof that it treats any condition.
Proposed mechanism Hypothesis
People who eat more fruit and vegetables differ in other ways too, so a link may not be caused by any one nutrient. The authors treat carotenoids as markers of fruit and vegetable intake.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
See the capsule trials on the Benefits tab and the Safety tab.
Lung cancer risk (vegetables, observational)
Low certaintyStudies that follow people over time link eating more vegetables, and having higher blood carotenoids, with lower lung cancer risk. They are not about pumpkin alone and cannot rule out the effect of smoking.
3 studiesVegetables as food (many kinds); blood carotenoid levels.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
Vieira and colleagues pooled prospective studies: highest versus lowest vegetable intake gave a summary RR of 0.92 (95% CI 0.87-0.97, 25 studies); each 100 g a day of vegetables gave RR 0.94 (0.89-0.98); fruit and vegetables together gave RR 0.86 (0.78-0.94). The authors say residual confounding by smoking cannot be ruled out and that stopping smoking is the best way to prevent lung cancer. Abar and colleagues found higher blood alpha-carotene (RR 0.66), beta-carotene (RR 0.84), total carotenoids (RR 0.66) and retinol (RR 0.81) linked with lower lung cancer risk; the beta-carotene and retinol links were seen only in men. MedlinePlus says eating food sources of beta-carotene may reduce cancer risk.
Results
Small to moderate inverse associations in observational studies. Not specific to pumpkin.
Effect sizes as reported
Vegetables highest vs lowest RR 0.92; per 100 g/day RR 0.94; blood beta-carotene RR 0.84 per 20 ug/100 mL.
Why this rating
Prospective observational studies; smoking can confound. Vegetables as a group, not pumpkin.
Form and dose studied
Vegetables as food (many kinds); blood carotenoid levels.
Who was studied
Adults in prospective cohorts, including smokers, former and never smokers.
Limits
Not a test of pumpkin. Smoking confounding. Does not show that carotenoid capsules help; trials of capsules found harm in smokers (next item).
Why researchers looked
Carotenoid-rich vegetables have long been studied for lung cancer, which is why beta-carotene capsules were tested (see the next item).
Traditional use
Pumpkin flesh is eaten cooked in soups, purees and baking. Long use as food is not proof that it treats any condition.
Proposed mechanism Hypothesis
People who eat more vegetables differ in other ways, including smoking, so a link may not be caused by the vegetables.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Stopping smoking is the best prevention (authors of the 2016 meta-analysis).
Beta-carotene capsules and lung cancer (not pumpkin)
Evidence againstLarge trials of beta-carotene capsules found more lung cancer in smokers and in asbestos-exposed workers. This is about capsules, not about eating pumpkin. Smokers should ask a clinician before taking any beta-carotene or vitamin A supplement.
4 studiesCapsules and tablets (beta-carotene, sometimes with vitamin A). Not p…
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
In the ATBC trial (29,133 male smokers, beta-carotene 20 mg a day for 5 to 8 years) lung cancer was 18 percent higher with beta-carotene (95% CI 3 to 36 percent) and total death 8 percent higher. In CARET (18,314 smokers, former smokers and asbestos-exposed workers; beta-carotene 30 mg plus retinol 25,000 IU a day) lung cancer risk was higher (RR 1.28, 1.04-1.57) and the trial was stopped 21 months early. A Cochrane review of 78 antioxidant trials found beta-carotene increased death in low-risk-of-bias trials (RR 1.05, 1.01-1.09). MedlinePlus says beta-carotene supplements do not reduce cancer risk and may increase it in current and former smokers and asbestos workers.
Results
Harm signal for capsules in smokers and asbestos-exposed workers. Nothing in these trials tests pumpkin.
Effect sizes as reported
ATBC: lung cancer +18%; CARET: RR 1.28; Cochrane: beta-carotene RR 1.05 for death.
Why this rating
Randomised trials and a Cochrane review agree on no benefit and some harm from capsules in these groups. The rating is for capsules, not food.
Form and dose studied
Capsules and tablets (beta-carotene, sometimes with vitamin A). Not pumpkin.
Who was studied
Smokers, former smokers and asbestos-exposed workers (the groups where harm was seen).
Limits
Capsules at supplement-level amounts, not food. Findings do not show that eating pumpkin raises risk.
Why researchers looked
Because carotenoid-rich vegetables were linked to less lung cancer, researchers tested beta-carotene capsules in people at high risk.
Traditional use
Pumpkin flesh is eaten cooked in soups, purees and baking. Long use as food is not proof that it treats any condition.
Proposed mechanism Unknown
The reason capsules differ from food is not established by these trials.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Smokers and former smokers: ask a clinician before any beta-carotene or vitamin A supplement.
Blood pressure and potassium
Not enough evidencePumpkin has a moderate amount of potassium: 340 mg per 100 g raw, about 394 mg in a cup of cubes (USDA). MedlinePlus says potassium supports heart health and names winter squash as a good source. No trial of pumpkin and blood pressure was found.
4 studiesCooked or raw pumpkin as food.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
MedlinePlus says potassium is needed to support heart health, proper muscle function and bone health, and lists winter squash among good vegetable sources. USDA lists 340 mg of potassium per 100 g of raw pumpkin; boiled pumpkin 230 mg and plain canned 206 mg per 100 g.
Results
Pumpkin supplies some potassium. No trial of pumpkin for blood pressure was read.
Effect sizes as reported
USDA: 340 mg potassium per 100 g raw (about 394 mg per 116 g cup).
Why this rating
The agency statement supports the nutrient fact only; no pumpkin trial on blood pressure.
Form and dose studied
Cooked or raw pumpkin as food.
Who was studied
General adult diet.
Limits
A food containing a nutrient is not proof that it lowers blood pressure.
Why researchers looked
Potassium is a mineral linked to heart health, and pumpkin contains it.
Traditional use
Pumpkin flesh is eaten cooked in soups, purees and baking. Long use as food is not proof that it treats any condition.
Proposed mechanism Authoritative guidance
Potassium is an electrolyte the body needs for the heart and muscles (MedlinePlus).
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
People with kidney disease or on some blood pressure medicines should ask a clinician about potassium-rich foods; see the Safety tab.
Connections to the rest of health
How Pumpkin connects to the rest of our health knowledge graph. Every link says what kind of connection it is. A safety link (for example to the liver) is a warning, not a benefit. A study that merely mentions a topic never creates a benefit link.
Explore every connection: goals, body systems, organs, symptoms, genes
B. Body systems
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eyes And Vision | Biological association | High certainty | Studied for: Provitamin A (beta-carotene) for vitamin A | 16 17 18 19 20 |
| Integumentary System | Biological association | High certainty | Studied for: Provitamin A (beta-carotene) for vitamin A | 16 17 18 19 20 |
| Endocrine System | Biological association | Very low certainty | Studied for: Blood sugar and type 2 diabetes | 11 |
| Blood Sugar Support | Biological association | Very low certainty | Studied for: Blood sugar and type 2 diabetes | 11 |
| Cardiovascular System | Biological association | Low certainty | Studied for: Heart disease and overall death (carotenoid-rich diets) Studied for: Blood pressure and potassium | 4 15 18 19 20 |
| Respiratory System | Biological association | Low certainty | Studied for: Lung cancer risk (vegetables, observational) Studied for: Beta-carotene capsules and lung cancer (not pumpkin) | 10 1 16 3 9 5 |
C. Body parts and organs
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kidneys | Adverse effect or risk | Documented risk | People with kidney disease or on potassium-raising medicines should ask about potassium-rich foods. Pumpkin contains potassium; caution for kidney disease and potassium-raising medicines. Preparation or compound: Potassium in pumpkin |
15 18 |
I. Biomarkers
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blood glucose and type 2 diabetes related markers | Biological association | Very low certainty | Measured in trials: unclear. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 11 |
| Heart disease, stroke and death from any cause | Biological association | Low certainty | Measured in trials: lowered. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 4 |
| Lung cancer cases | Biological association | Low certainty | Measured in trials: mixed. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 10 3 9 |
| Blood carotenoid levels | Biological association | Low certainty | Measured in trials: lowered. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 1 |
K. Biological pathways
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vitamin A (provitamin A carotenoids) | Preliminary mechanism | Human | Pumpkin is a rich provitamin A food; vitamin A is needed for vision and skin. | 16 18 |
| Potassium | Preliminary mechanism | Human | Pumpkin has a moderate amount; relevant for kidney disease and some blood pressure medicines. | 15 18 |
L. Active compounds
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beta-carotene | Biological association | Human | Orange pigment the body can turn into vitamin A (MedlinePlus). Capsules raised lung cancer in smokers in two trials. Preparation or compound: Flesh |
18 16 3 9 |
| Alpha-carotene | Biological association | Human | Another carotenoid; blood levels were linked to lower lung cancer risk in observational studies. Preparation or compound: Flesh |
18 1 |
| Lutein with zeaxanthin | Biological association | Human | Carotenoid plant pigments measured by USDA; no pumpkin-specific effect was read. Preparation or compound: Flesh |
18 |
| Vitamin A (as RAE, from provitamin A) | Biological association | Human | Needed for vision, skin and the lining of the body (MedlinePlus). Preparation or compound: Flesh |
18 16 |
| Potassium | Biological association | Human | Mineral for heart and muscle function (MedlinePlus); relevant for kidney disease. Preparation or compound: Flesh |
18 15 |
| Cucurbitacins (bitter squash only) | Biological association | Human | The French poison-centre authors link bitter taste and toxicity of non-edible squash to cucurbitacins. Not described for normal pumpkin. Preparation or compound: Fruit of bitter squash |
8 |
Each connection is stored with the ingredient, the connected record, the kind of connection, the evidence status, the supporting studies, the preparation or compound involved, and a review date (last reviewed October 26, 2026).
Evidence at a glance: what changed in 3 lab markers
Tap a number to show only those markers. Counts are markers, not people.
The evidence
The research centre for Pumpkin. Every record here was checked against PubMed or the publisher's page; we never list a study we have not verified.
Evidence by outcome
Bars show how many studies we found for each outcome, not how well it works. People are added up across trials only (reviews are not added, to avoid double counting).
How we rate evidence
High certainty
Several well-run trials or reviews agree; further research is unlikely to change the picture much.
Moderate certainty
Good trials point the same way, but some doubt remains.
Low certainty
Small, short or inconsistent trials. The finding could change with better research.
Very low certainty
Very little or very weak human data. Treat as a possibility only.
Mixed findings
Trials or reviews disagree with each other.
Not enough evidence
Not enough human research to say either way.
Evidence against
Good research found no benefit, or found harm.
We take the reviewers' own risk-of-bias and GRADE statements where they exist, and otherwise judge from study size, design, consistency, directness and whether a product matches what is sold. Many publications do not make evidence high. Method note: We started from our existing pumpkin summary, re-checked nutrition at USDA FoodData Central, read the health agency pages (MedlinePlus, NHS, FDA) and searched PubMed for reviews, trials and case reports. Only abstracts were read for studies, and two allergy reports had no abstract. Items we could not verify are flagged in the research gaps.
Study library: every study we checked 20
| Study | Design | People | Product, dose, length | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Abar 2016 Blood concentrations of carotenoids and retinol and lung cancer risk: an update of the WCRF-AICR systematic review of published prospective studies. Cancer Med · PMID 27384231 · DOI |
Systematic review meta analysis |
458434 17 prospective studies (18 publications), 3,603 lung cancer cases |
Blood carotenoid and retinol levels (markers of fruit and vegetable intake) Blood levels, not intake Prospective follow-up · vs Lowest levels |
Higher blood levels of alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, total carotenoids and retinol were linked to lower lung cancer risk. The link for beta-carotene and retinol was seen only in men. The authors say confounding by smoking is not ruled out and that more studies in never and former smokers are needed. Per 5 ug/100 mL alpha-carotene RR 0.66; per 20 ug/100 mL beta-carotene RR 0.84; total carotenoids RR 0.66; retinol RR 0.81 (Alpha-carotene 0.66 (0.55-0.80); beta-carotene 0.84 (0.76-0.94); total carotenoids 0.66 (0.54-0.81); retinol 0.81 (0.73-0.90)) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Lung cancer risk or death Limitations: Blood levels reflect many foods and things like smoking. Not a test of pumpkin. Does not show that carotenoid capsules help (see the capsule trials). Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Acikalin 2026 Immunoglobulin E-mediated pumpkin seed allergy in children: Case series and narrative review with a structured literature search. Allergy Asthma Proc · PMID 42343505 · DOI |
Case series |
25 25 children with pumpkin seed allergy at one Turkish clinic |
Pumpkin seed (allergy) Seed Records 2016 to 2024 |
Reactions were immediate in all 25 children and anaphylaxis occurred in 64 percent. Many also reacted to tree nuts (76 percent) and other seeds (72 percent). Pumpkin pulp was tolerated in all the patients. A review found 14 earlier cases, mostly adults, with 57 percent anaphylaxis. The authors call seed allergy uncommon but frequently severe. Anaphylaxis 64% of 25 children (Not applicable) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Allergic reactions Limitations: One clinic, children, seeds not flesh. Shows the seed allergy can be serious, not how common it is. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Alpha-Tocopherol 1994 The effect of vitamin E and beta carotene on the incidence of lung cancer and other cancers in male smokers. N Engl J Med · PMID 8127329 · DOI |
Controlled trial |
29133 Male smokers aged 50 to 69 in Finland |
Beta-carotene capsules (20 mg a day), vitamin E, both, or placebo Capsules, not a food Trial detail, not advice 5 to 8 years · vs Placebo |
No fall in lung cancer with vitamin E or beta-carotene capsules. Lung cancer was 18 percent higher in men given beta-carotene. Total death was 8 percent higher with beta-carotene, mainly from lung cancer and heart disease. The authors say the trial raises the possibility that the supplements may have harmful as well as beneficial effects. Lung cancer +18% with beta-carotene; total death +8% (Lung cancer +18% (95% CI 3 to 36%); total death +8% (1 to 16%)) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Lung cancer and other cancers; death Limitations: Male smokers only. Capsules, not food. Does not show that eating pumpkin does this. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract (US government research support listed in the record). Read: abstract |
| Aune 2018 Dietary intake and blood concentrations of antioxidants and the risk of cardiovascular disease, total cancer, and all-cause mortality: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of prospective studies. Am J Clin Nutr · PMID 30475962 · DOI |
Systematic review meta analysis |
69 prospective studies (99 publications) | Dietary intake and blood levels of vitamin C, carotenoids and vitamin E Fruit and vegetables (as the source) Per-increment analyses, not advice Prospective follow-up · vs Lower intake or levels |
Dietary intake and/or blood levels of carotenoids (including beta-carotene and alpha-carotene) were inversely linked with coronary heart disease, stroke, cardiovascular disease, cancer and/or death from any cause. The authors say the results support eating more fruit and vegetables, but not antioxidant supplements. The abstract gives numbers for vitamin C but not for carotenoids. Carotenoid figures not in the abstract (vitamin C per 100 mg/day: CVD RR 0.89) (Vitamin C, CVD: 0.89 (0.85-0.94). Carotenoid figures not in the abstract.) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Coronary heart disease, stroke, cardiovascular disease, total cancer, all-cause death Limitations: Observational; carotenoid levels are markers of vegetable intake and of healthier habits. Not a test of pumpkin. Carotenoid figures not in the abstract. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Bjelakovic 2012 Antioxidant supplements for prevention of mortality in healthy participants and patients with various diseases. Cochrane Database Syst Rev · PMID 22419320 · DOI |
Systematic review meta analysis |
296707 78 randomised trials of antioxidant supplements |
Beta-carotene, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E and selenium supplements Capsules and tablets, not food Varied 28 days to 12 years · vs Placebo or no intervention |
Overall the supplements had no significant effect on death in a random-effects analysis (RR 1.02). In the 56 trials with low risk of bias they increased death (RR 1.04). Beta-carotene in low-risk-of-bias trials: RR 1.05. The authors found no evidence to support antioxidant supplements for prevention and say beta-carotene and vitamin E seem to increase death. Beta-carotene, low risk of bias trials: RR 1.05; all low-bias trials: RR 1.04 (Beta-carotene 1.05 (1.01-1.09, 26 trials); all low-bias trials 1.04 (1.01-1.07)) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Death from any cause Limitations: Supplements only; says nothing about eating vegetables. Small increases in relative risk. Funding and conflicts: None known; the funding sources had no role (per the abstract). Read: abstract |
| González De Olano 2010 Allergy to pumpkin with cyclophilin as the relevant allergen. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol · PMID 20143656 · DOI |
Case report |
Case report (letter); number of patients not available from the record | Pumpkin |
Only the title and publication type were read (the PubMed record has no abstract). The title reports allergy to pumpkin with a protein called cyclophilin as the relevant allergen. Not available (Not available) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Allergic reaction Limitations: No abstract to read. Case report: shows it can happen, not how often. Funding and conflicts: Not stated. Read: abstract |
| La Shell 2010 Allergy to pumpkin and crossreactivity to pollens and other foods. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol · PMID 20306822 · DOI |
Case report |
Case report (letter); number of patients not available from the record | Pumpkin |
Only the title and publication type were read (the PubMed record has no abstract). The title reports allergy to pumpkin with cross-reactivity to pollens and other foods. Not available (Not available) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Allergic reaction Limitations: No abstract to read. Case report: shows it can happen, not how often. Funding and conflicts: Not stated. Read: abstract |
| Le Roux 2018 Poisoning by non-edible squash: retrospective series of 353 patients from French Poison Control Centers. Clin Toxicol (Phila) · PMID 29323540 · DOI |
Case series |
353 People reported to French poison centres, 2012 to 2016 |
Bitter-tasting squash not fit to eat Fruit |
Exposure was almost always through food (95.5%), and most squash was bought in a shop (55.8%). 204 patients (57.8%) had mainly diarrhoea, vomiting or stomach pain, sometimes with dehydration, low blood pressure, fast heartbeat, headache or dizziness. No deaths and no severe cases; 14 patients (4.0%) were moderate. The authors suggest the bitter compounds (cucurbitacins) cause the poisoning and recommend throwing away any squash with a bitter taste. 204 of 353 had symptoms; 14 moderate; none severe or fatal (Not applicable) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Digestive symptoms and severity Limitations: Retrospective, reported cases only, so true frequency is unknown. These are bitter, non-edible squashes, not normal sweet pumpkin. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Omenn 1996 Effects of a combination of beta carotene and vitamin A on lung cancer and cardiovascular disease. N Engl J Med · PMID 8602180 · DOI |
Controlled trial |
18314 Smokers, former smokers and workers exposed to asbestos |
Beta-carotene (30 mg a day) plus retinol (25,000 IU a day) capsules versus placebo Capsules, not a food Trial detail, not advice Average 4 years; stopped early · vs Placebo |
Lung cancer risk was 28 percent higher with the capsules (RR 1.28). Death from any cause RR 1.17; death from lung cancer RR 1.46. The trial was stopped 21 months early. The authors say the combination had no benefit and may have had an adverse effect. Lung cancer RR 1.28; all-cause death RR 1.17; lung cancer death RR 1.46 (Lung cancer 1.28 (1.04-1.57); all-cause death 1.17 (1.03-1.33); lung cancer death 1.46 (1.07-2.00)) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Lung cancer; death Limitations: Smokers and asbestos-exposed workers only. A combination of two supplements, not food. Does not show that eating pumpkin does this. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract (US government research support listed in the record). Read: abstract |
| Vieira 2016 Fruits, vegetables and lung cancer risk: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Ann Oncol · PMID 26371287 · DOI |
Systematic review meta analysis |
Adults in prospective cohort studies (World Cancer Research Fund Continuous Update Project) | Fruit and vegetables as food Fruit and vegetables Per 100 g a day (analysis unit, not advice) Prospective follow-up · vs Lowest intake |
Highest versus lowest vegetable intake: summary RR 0.92 (25 studies). Each 100 g a day of vegetables: RR 0.94. For fruit and vegetables together: RR 0.86 highest versus lowest. The authors say the results held across different types of fruit and vegetables, that residual confounding by smoking cannot be ruled out, and that stopping smoking is the best way to prevent lung cancer. Vegetables, highest vs lowest: RR 0.92; per 100 g a day: RR 0.94; fruit and vegetables: RR 0.86 (Vegetables 0.92 (95% CI 0.87-0.97, n=25); per 100 g/day 0.94 (0.89-0.98, I2 48%); fruit and vegetables 0.86 (0.78-0.94, n=18)) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Lung cancer risk Limitations: Observational. Smoking can confound. Vegetables as a group, not pumpkin alone. Association was marginal in current smokers and not significant in former or never smokers for fruit and vegetables combined. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Ye 2026 Effects of Pumpkin (Cucurbita spp.) on Glycemic and Type 2 Diabetes-Related Metabolic Biomarkers: A Systematic Review of Controlled Clinical Trials. Nutr Rev · PMID 41934368 · DOI |
Systematic review |
316 Adults with or without type 2 diabetes in 9 controlled clinical trials |
Pumpkin or pumpkin by-products (not only plain cooked pumpkin) Not given in the abstract Varied · vs Controls in each trial |
The authors say clinical evidence on pumpkin and blood sugar is inconsistent. From 198 records they included 9 controlled trials (316 people). They conclude that pumpkin and its by-products have potential as add-on measures for preventing or treating type 2 diabetes, and that more high-quality, long-term trials are needed. No effect sizes in the abstract (Not given in the abstract) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Blood glucose outcomes and type 2 diabetes related metabolic markers Limitations: The abstract gives no numbers. Only 316 people in 9 trials. Includes by-products, which are not the same as eating cooked pumpkin. The authors call for better and longer trials. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| s-fda-produce FDA: Selecting and Serving Produce Safely · Source |
Health agency n/a |
Methods, limits and fundingRead: full-text | ||
| s-gbif-cucurbita-maxima GBIF Backbone: Cucurbita maxima Duchesne (usageKey 2874515) · Source |
Reference database n/a |
Methods, limits and fundingRead: full-text | ||
| s-gbif-cucurbita-pepo GBIF Backbone: Cucurbita pepo L. (usageKey 2874508) · Source |
Reference database n/a |
Methods, limits and fundingRead: full-text | ||
| s-medlineplus-potassium MedlinePlus: Potassium in diet · Source |
Health agency n/a |
Methods, limits and fundingRead: full-text | ||
| s-medlineplus-vita MedlinePlus: Vitamin A · Source |
Health agency n/a |
Methods, limits and fundingRead: full-text | ||
| s-nhs-vita NHS: Vitamin A · Source |
Health agency n/a |
Methods, limits and fundingRead: full-text | ||
| s-usda-fdc-168448 USDA FoodData Central: Pumpkin, raw (FDC 168448) · Source |
Reference database n/a |
Methods, limits and fundingRead: full-text | ||
| s-usda-fdc-168449 USDA FoodData Central: Pumpkin, cooked, boiled, drained, without salt (FDC 168449) · Source |
Reference database n/a |
Methods, limits and fundingRead: full-text | ||
| s-usda-fdc-168450 USDA FoodData Central: Pumpkin, canned, without salt (FDC 168450) · Source |
Reference database n/a |
Methods, limits and fundingRead: full-text |
What we do not know yet
- No trial of eating plain cooked pumpkin was found for vitamin A status, vision, skin, heart disease, blood pressure or lung cancer.
- The type 2 diabetes review was read at abstract level only; it gave no numbers and included by-products as well as pumpkin.
- Observational findings are for vegetables or carotenoids in general, not pumpkin alone.
- Allergy to pumpkin flesh was found only in case reports with no abstract; how common it is was not found.
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding, young children and choking risk, pesticide residues, heavy metals, interactions with diabetes medicines and warfarin, and the difference between plain canned pumpkin and pie filling were not confirmed from official sources.
How new research is added
New studies are found by a saved PubMed search and placed in a review queue before the page changes.
Lab markers
What changed in blood or saliva tests during trials. A changed number is not the same as feeling or being healthier, and we give no "normal ranges".
Other 4
Blood glucose and type 2 diabetes related markers
Unclear in trials
Blood sugar levels and related markers measured in trials of people with or without type 2 diabetes.
Very low certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
Trials of pumpkin and its by-products measured glucose outcomes.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
Direction and size were not stated in the abstract.
Safety implication
Do not change diabetes medicine on your own.
| Study | Result | People | Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | The review calls the evidence inconsistent and says pumpkin and by-products have potential as add-ons; the abstract gives no numbers | 316 adults in 9 controlled trials | Pumpkin or pumpkin by-products |
Heart disease, stroke and death from any cause
Lowered in trials
How many people in a study develop heart disease or stroke, or die.
Low certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
These are the outcomes that matter most to health.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
An association in observational studies, not proof that pumpkin or carotenoids prevent disease.
Safety implication
None specific.
| Study | Result | People | Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | Carotenoid intake or blood levels were inversely linked with heart disease, stroke, cancer and/or death from any cause; carotenoid numbers are not in the abstract | Adults in 69 prospective studies | Carotenoids from fruit and vegetables (markers of intake) |
Lung cancer cases
Mixed results in trials
How many people in a study are diagnosed with lung cancer.
Low certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
Lung cancer is the main outcome studied for carotenoids.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
Lower in observational studies of vegetables; higher in trials of capsules. Neither tests pumpkin.
Safety implication
Capsules raised risk in smokers; ask a clinician before supplements.
| Study | Result | People | Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | Highest vs lowest vegetable intake RR 0.92 (95% CI 0.87-0.97); association with fruit and vegetables marginal in current smokers | Adults in prospective cohorts | Vegetables as food |
| 3 | Beta-carotene capsules: lung cancer +18% (95% CI 3 to 36%) | 29,133 male smokers | Beta-carotene 20 mg a day capsules, 5 to 8 years |
| 9 | Beta-carotene plus retinol capsules: lung cancer RR 1.28 (1.04-1.57) | 18,314 smokers, former smokers, asbestos-exposed workers | Beta-carotene 30 mg plus retinol 25,000 IU a day, about 4 years |
Blood carotenoid levels
Lowered in trials
The amount of carotenoids (plant pigments) measured in blood; used as a marker of fruit and vegetable intake.
Low certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
Pumpkin is rich in carotenoids, which show in blood tests.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
Markers of a vegetable-rich diet, not a treatment target.
Safety implication
None specific.
| Study | Result | People | Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Higher blood alpha-carotene, beta-carotene and total carotenoids linked to lower lung cancer risk (RR 0.66, 0.84, 0.66) | 17 prospective studies, 3,603 lung cancer cases | Blood levels, not an intervention |
Safety
What studies and official sources say about side effects, medicines and who should check first. Each point shows what kind of evidence it comes from.
Main points to know 5
- Beta-carotene capsules raised lung cancer in smokers (this is about pills, not pumpkin). Two large trials found more lung cancer in smokers, former smokers and asbestos-exposed workers who took beta-carotene capsules. MedlinePlus says beta-carotene supplements do not reduce cancer risk and may increase it in current and former smokers and in workers exposed to asbestos. Eating pumpkin is a different thing, but smokers should ask a clinician before any beta-carotene or vitamin A supplement. Controlled trial 3 9 5 16
- A bitter-tasting squash should be thrown away. French poison centres recorded 353 people poisoned by bitter squash that was not fit to eat. Most had diarrhoea, vomiting or stomach pain, a few were moderately ill, and none died. The authors advise throwing away any squash with a bitter taste. Normal pumpkin is not bitter. Case series 8
- Kidney disease and some blood pressure medicines: pumpkin has a moderate amount of potassium. USDA lists 340 mg of potassium per 100 g of raw pumpkin, and plain canned pumpkin 206 mg per 100 g. MedlinePlus says people with kidney problems, particularly those on dialysis, should not eat too many potassium-rich foods. It names ACE inhibitors, ARBs and potassium-sparing diuretics among causes of high blood potassium. MedlinePlus names winter squash as a good source but does not name pumpkin. Ask a clinician about potassium-rich foods. Authoritative guidance 15 18 20
- Allergy to pumpkin flesh is rare; pumpkin seed allergy can be severe. Case reports describe allergy to pumpkin, including cross-reactions with pollens and other foods. A 2026 series of 25 children with pumpkin seed allergy found that all had immediate reactions and 64 percent had anaphylaxis; pumpkin pulp was tolerated by all of them. These show it can happen, not how often. Case series 2 7 6
- Skin can turn yellow or orange. MedlinePlus says large amounts of beta-carotene will not make you seriously ill, but high amounts can turn the skin yellow or orange. The colour returns to normal once you reduce your intake. Authoritative guidance 16
Side effects 4
| Effect | How often | Severity and recovery | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| More lung cancer and death with beta-carotene capsules (not pumpkin) Capsules in smokers and asbestos-exposed workers. The trials do not show that eating pumpkin does this. | ATBC: lung cancer 18% higher, total death 8% higher; CARET: lung cancer RR 1.28 | serious Not applicable | Controlled trial 3 9 5 |
| Digestive upset (diarrhoea, vomiting, stomach pain) from bitter, non-edible squash Reported cases only, so the true frequency is unknown. Concerns bitter squash, not normal sweet pumpkin. | 204 of 353 reported people had symptoms; 14 moderate, none severe | mostly minor Not stated in the abstract | Case series 8 |
| Allergic reactions The two pumpkin reports were read by title only (no abstract). No source read says how common allergy to pumpkin is. | Not established | can be severe (seed allergy: anaphylaxis in 64% of 25 children) Not stated | Case series 2 7 6 |
| Yellow or orange skin colour (carotenemia) with high beta-carotene intake MedlinePlus describes this for beta-carotene in general; pumpkin is not named. | Not established | not serious (MedlinePlus) Returns to normal when intake is reduced (MedlinePlus) | Authoritative guidance 16 |
Liver
No liver injury from eating pumpkin was found. A liver-safety source (such as LiverTox) was not searched for this food page.
How often. No frequency was found.
Monitoring. No agency monitoring advice was found.
This is a safety connection. It is not evidence that Pumpkin supports liver health.
Medicines and supplements 2
| With | Why it matters | Importance | Evidence | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Medicines that raise blood potassium (ACE inhibitors, ARBs, potassium-sparing diuretics) prescription | These medicines can raise potassium in the blood (MedlinePlus). Pumpkin contains potassium (USDA: 340 mg per 100 g raw). | MedlinePlus does not name pumpkin; the link is our reading of two separate facts. Normal food amounts have not been tested in a trial. | Authoritative guidance Low certainty 15 18 | If you take one of these medicines or have kidney disease, ask a clinician or pharmacist about potassium-rich foods. |
| Beta-carotene or vitamin A supplements supplement | Same family of nutrients as in pumpkin, in concentrated form. | Capsule trials found more lung cancer in smokers and asbestos-exposed workers. MedlinePlus warns that large doses of vitamin A in pregnancy can cause birth defects. | Controlled trial High certainty 3 9 16 | Ask a clinician or pharmacist first, especially if you smoke, used to smoke, were exposed to asbestos, or are pregnant. |
Who should check first 5
| Situation | Advice | Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Smoker, former smoker or asbestos-exposed worker considering beta-carotene or vitamin A capsules | Ask a clinician first. The capsule trials found more lung cancer. This is about capsules, not pumpkin. | Controlled trial 3 9 16 |
| Kidney disease (especially on dialysis) or taking ACE inhibitors, ARBs or potassium-sparing diuretics | Ask a clinician about potassium-rich foods such as pumpkin. | Authoritative guidance 15 |
| Known allergy to pumpkin or to pumpkin seeds | Avoid it and ask an allergist. Call emergency services for trouble breathing or swelling of the face or throat. A 2026 children's series found pumpkin pulp tolerated in every child with seed allergy, but that is no reason to test it yourself. | Case series 2 7 6 |
| Pregnancy, young children, older age or weakened immunity (foodborne illness) | The FDA says these groups can be especially vulnerable to foodborne illness. Follow official food-safety advice for fresh produce. | Authoritative guidance 12 |
| Pregnancy and vitamin A supplements | MedlinePlus says large doses of vitamin A in pregnant women can cause birth defects. This is about supplements; no source read gives pregnancy advice for eating pumpkin. Ask your doctor. | Authoritative guidance 16 |
Overdose, product quality and regulators
Summary. No toxicity from sweet pumpkin eaten as ordinary food was found in the sources read. The cautions are for certain groups (smokers and capsules, kidney disease and potassium, allergy) and for bitter squash.
Animal. Not reviewed.
Human doses studied. The beta-carotene doses in the capsule trials (20 mg and 30 mg a day) are supplement-level amounts, not pumpkin amounts.
High dose or long term signals. Capsule signal for lung cancer in smokers. Orange skin colour with very high beta-carotene intake (MedlinePlus).
Overdose response. Not found.
Genotoxicity. Not researched.
Toxic or hazardous parts. Bitter, non-edible squash contains compounds (cucurbitacins) that the French poison-centre authors link to poisoning; they advise discarding bitter squash.
Fresh produce can carry germs. The FDA gives handling advice. Pesticide residues and heavy metals in pumpkin were not researched.
Food safety handling. The FDA says to wash all produce under running water, not to use soap, detergent or commercial produce wash, and to wash produce even if you do not plan to eat the skin so dirt and bacteria are not moved to the flesh when cutting. It says washing reduces but does not eliminate bacteria, to scrub firm produce with a clean brush, that cooking produce thoroughly kills harmful bacteria, and to keep cut or packaged produce at 40 F (4 C) or below. 12
Bitter squash. In the French series the squash was usually bought in a shop (55.8%) or grown in a garden (25.5%); the authors advise throwing away any squash that tastes bitter. 8
| Body | Action | Date |
|---|---|---|
| MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) (United States) | Vitamin A page: beta-carotene supplements do not reduce cancer risk and may increase it in current and former smokers and asbestos workers; large doses of vitamin A in pregnancy can cause birth defects; high beta-carotene can turn skin yellow or orange source | 2025-01-21 |
| MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) (United States) | Potassium page: people with kidney problems should not eat too many potassium-rich foods; ACE inhibitors, ARBs and potassium-sparing diuretics are listed among causes of high potassium; winter squash is a good source source | 2026-04-30 |
| NHS (UK) (United Kingdom) | Vitamin A page: beta-carotene is converted to retinol; limit on vitamin A from liver and supplements (1.5 mg a day average) for bone health; avoid liver in pregnancy source | 2020-08-03 |
| FDA (US Food and Drug Administration) (United States) | Produce safety page: wash produce under running water, do not use soap or produce wash, cooking kills harmful bacteria, refrigerate cut or packaged produce at 40 F or below; some groups are especially vulnerable to foodborne illness source | 2024-03-05 |
When to get medical help
- Trouble breathing, swelling of the lips, face or throat, or widespread hives after eating pumpkin or pumpkin seeds
- Severe or repeated vomiting, diarrhoea or stomach pain after eating a bitter-tasting squash
- Vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain or fever after eating fresh produce (food-poisoning signs in the FDA page)
- An irregular heartbeat in someone with kidney disease or taking potassium-raising medicines (MedlinePlus says very high potassium may cause dangerous heart rhythms)
Stop using the product and contact a clinician or emergency service. In the US, Poison Control is 1-800-222-1222.
General information only, not medical advice. Ask a clinician or pharmacist before use, especially with medicines, in pregnancy or with a health condition. See the Natural Remedy Safety guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is pumpkin good for?
Is pumpkin a good source of vitamin A?
Are beta-carotene pills the same as pumpkin?
Does pumpkin help with diabetes or blood sugar?
Not shown. A 2026 review of 9 controlled trials (316 people) of pumpkin or its by-products called the evidence inconsistent and said better trials are needed. Do not change diabetes medicine on your own.
Is pumpkin good for the heart?
Does pumpkin lower the risk of lung cancer?
Is pumpkin safe with kidney disease or blood pressure medicine?
Can pumpkin make you ill?
Can I be allergic to pumpkin?
Is pumpkin safe in pregnancy?
Can eating a lot of pumpkin turn skin orange?
MedlinePlus says high amounts of beta-carotene can turn the skin yellow or orange, that this will not make you seriously ill, and that the colour returns to normal when you reduce your intake.
Is canned pumpkin the same as fresh?
Explore by health goal
Editorial transparency
- Written by
- AlternativeMed editorial team. Research compiled with AI assistance, then checked against the sources listed.
- Medical review
- None. This page has not been reviewed by a physician or pharmacist.
- First published
- 2026-10-26
- Last substantive update
- 2026-10-26
- How we research
- We started from our existing pumpkin summary, re-checked nutrition at USDA FoodData Central, read the health agency pages (MedlinePlus, NHS, FDA) and searched PubMed for reviews, trials and case reports. Only abstracts were read for studies, and two allergy reports had no abstract. Items we could not verify are flagged in the research gaps.
- How we rate evidence
- See "How we rate evidence" in the Evidence tab.
- Independence
- No product is promoted on this page. No affiliate links are shown.
Sources 20
Each source was opened and checked. Where we read only the abstract, it says so. The small numbers in the text point here.
- Abar L, Vieira AR, Aune D, et al.. Blood concentrations of carotenoids and retinol and lung cancer risk: an update of the WCRF-AICR systematic review of published prospective studies.. Cancer Med. 2016. PMID 27384231. DOI 10.1002/cam4.676. (abstract)
- Acikalin B, Ocak M, Sekerel BE. Immunoglobulin E-mediated pumpkin seed allergy in children: Case series and narrative review with a structured literature search.. Allergy Asthma Proc. 2026. PMID 42343505. DOI 10.2500/aap.2026.47.260028. (abstract)
- Alpha-Tocopherol, Beta Carotene Cancer Prevention Study Group. The effect of vitamin E and beta carotene on the incidence of lung cancer and other cancers in male smokers.. N Engl J Med. 1994. PMID 8127329. DOI 10.1056/NEJM199404143301501. (abstract)
- Aune D, Keum N, Giovannucci E, et al.. Dietary intake and blood concentrations of antioxidants and the risk of cardiovascular disease, total cancer, and all-cause mortality: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of prospective studies.. Am J Clin Nutr. 2018. PMID 30475962. DOI 10.1093/ajcn/nqy097. (abstract)
- Bjelakovic G, Nikolova D, Gluud LL, et al.. Antioxidant supplements for prevention of mortality in healthy participants and patients with various diseases.. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2012. PMID 22419320. DOI 10.1002/14651858.CD007176.pub2. (abstract)
- González De Olano D, González-Mancebo E, Macadán SS, et al.. Allergy to pumpkin with cyclophilin as the relevant allergen.. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2010. PMID 20143656. DOI 10.1016/j.anai.2009.11.019. (abstract)
- La Shell MS, Otto HF, Whisman BA, et al.. Allergy to pumpkin and crossreactivity to pollens and other foods.. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2010. PMID 20306822. DOI 10.1016/j.anai.2009.11.048. (abstract)
- Le Roux G, Leborgne I, Labadie M, et al.. Poisoning by non-edible squash: retrospective series of 353 patients from French Poison Control Centers.. Clin Toxicol (Phila). 2018. PMID 29323540. DOI 10.1080/15563650.2018.1424891. (abstract)
- Omenn GS, Goodman GE, Thornquist MD, et al.. Effects of a combination of beta carotene and vitamin A on lung cancer and cardiovascular disease.. N Engl J Med. 1996. PMID 8602180. DOI 10.1056/NEJM199605023341802. (abstract)
- Vieira AR, Abar L, Vingeliene S, et al.. Fruits, vegetables and lung cancer risk: a systematic review and meta-analysis.. Ann Oncol. 2016. PMID 26371287. DOI 10.1093/annonc/mdv381. (abstract)
- Ye K, Cândido FG, Ramos JS, et al.. Effects of Pumpkin (Cucurbita spp.) on Glycemic and Type 2 Diabetes-Related Metabolic Biomarkers: A Systematic Review of Controlled Clinical Trials.. Nutr Rev. 2026. PMID 41934368. DOI 10.1093/nutrit/nuag027. (abstract)
- . FDA: Selecting and Serving Produce Safely. . . (full-text)
- . GBIF Backbone: Cucurbita maxima Duchesne (usageKey 2874515). . . (full-text)
- . GBIF Backbone: Cucurbita pepo L. (usageKey 2874508). . . (full-text)
- . MedlinePlus: Potassium in diet. . . (full-text)
- . MedlinePlus: Vitamin A. . . (full-text)
- . NHS: Vitamin A. . . (full-text)
- . USDA FoodData Central: Pumpkin, raw (FDC 168448). . . (full-text)
- . USDA FoodData Central: Pumpkin, cooked, boiled, drained, without salt (FDC 168449). . . (full-text)
- . USDA FoodData Central: Pumpkin, canned, without salt (FDC 168450). . . (full-text)
