Pumpkin is a familiar food, rich in vitamins A, C, E and minerals such as potassium, iron, fiber... which helps strengthen the immune system, support bright eyes, good for the heart and skin. However, besides the benefits, there are some groups of people who need to be careful when using pumpkin to avoid adverse effects on health.

1. People with weak digestive systems

Pumpkin contains a fairly high amount of fiber, especially insoluble fiber, which can cause bloating, flatulence or indigestion in people with sensitive intestines.
👉 Recommendation: If you often have digestive disorders, you should process pumpkin by steaming it until soft, stewing it or using a moderate amount to reduce pressure on the stomach.

2. People with unstable blood sugar (diabetes)

Although pumpkin has a relatively low glycemic index (GI), eating too much can cause a slight increase in blood sugar, especially when cooked in porridge or soup - a form that is easily absorbed into the blood.
👉 Recommendation: People with diabetes should consult a doctor or nutritionist to adjust their diet appropriately, avoiding a sudden increase in blood glucose.

3. People who are overweight or obese

Pumpkin has a starch content equivalent to potatoes, so eating a lot - especially in the form of porridge, soup or cooked with sugar, milk - can cause weight gain.
👉 Recommendation: If you are losing weight, you should eat pumpkin in moderation, not combined with fat or sugar, and should be balanced with other vegetables that are low in starch.

4. People with chronic kidney disease

Pumpkin contains high levels of potassium, which is good for the heart but is a burden for people with kidney failure - who have difficulty excreting potassium. Hyperkalemia can lead to arrhythmia and dangerous complications.
👉 Recommendation: People with kidney disease should limit or avoid eating pumpkin, and should consult a doctor if they want to add this food to their daily menu.

5. Pregnant women

Pumpkin provides many nutrients that are good for pregnancy such as beta-carotene (provitamin A), fiber, vitamin C, iron, etc. However, eating too much can cause constipation, bloating or uncontrolled weight gain during pregnancy.
👉 Recommendation: Pregnant women should eat pumpkin in reasonable doses, combined with green vegetables and other protein-rich foods to ensure nutritional balance.