By this time of year, we’re pretty sure you know how much we love pumpkin. From healthy recipes to spa treatments, this orange ingredient is one of our favorites. That’s why, before the winter comes, we wanted to remind you of 5 reasons to add a little pumpkin to your diet ASAP:

#1 It Keeps Our Vision Strong – According to the National Institutes of Health, one cup of mashed pumpkin contains 200 percent of the daily vitamin A recommendation, meaning it is supercharged when it comes to boosting vision. Another vision benefit? Pumpkins are rich in carotenoids (which are responsible for their orange color) such as beta-carotene, that also protect our eyes and have overall health benefits.

#2 It Helps Us Stay Thin – Pumpkins contain a huge amount of fiber, which is associated with feeling full longer. In fact, with 3 grams of fiber per every 49 calories, it is one of the lowest-calorie ways of packing in the nutrient. A study in the journal Appetite found that people who consumed natural fiber previous to a meal ate 15% less calories.

#3 It Fights Cancer – The National Cancer Institute has found that beta-carotene, an antioxidant found in pumpkin, may reduce the risk of developing cancer. Moreover, a National Institute of Health study has shown that beta-carotene consumed via food rather than vitamin supplements is more effective in fighting cancer.

#4 It Makes Us Happy – Are you a fan of pumpkin seeds? They are chock full of tryptophan, an amino acid that aids digestion, skin and nerves. Additionally, it plays an important role in producing Serotonin, the brain chemical that is largely responsible for our moods.

#5 It Keeps Colds Away – Pumpkin is often overlooked for its vitamin C properties, when in fact it contains about 33% of the daily recommended serving per cup. Combined with thiamin, pumpkin can strengthen the immune system, while aiding the body’s ability to tolerate stress, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.