Here in this article, we will talk about the benefits of pumpkin seeds and easy ways to eat them.
Benefits of pumpkin seeds
Good for your heart
Pumpkin seeds contain healthy fats, fiber and antioxidants that are good for your cardiovascular health. The tiny seeds contain monounsaturated fatty acids that help reduce the bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol. The magnesium in the seeds helps regulate blood pressure levels.
It will help you sleep better
Pumpkin seeds contain Serotonin, a neurochemical that is considered a natural sleeping pill. These are also rich in Tryptophan, an amino acid that is converted to serotonin in the body, improving the quality of your sleep. A handful of seeds before going to bed can be an easy and natural way to get a good night’s sleep.
Anti-inflammatory
Pumpkin seeds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce arthritis pain. The seeds act as an easy home remedy in treating joint pain.
Promoting immunity
The seeds are full of antioxidants and phytochemicals that help strengthen your immunity and reduce your chances of getting sick.
Good for prostate health
According to studies, zinc is helpful in promoting male fertility and preventing prostate-related problems. Pumpkin seeds contain DHEA (Di-hydro epi-androstenedione) which reduces the risk of prostate cancer.
Good for diabetics
Pumpkin seeds help control blood sugar levels by reducing their oxidative stress. The seeds are also rich in digestive proteins, which stabilize blood sugar levels.
Promotes weight loss
More than half the world wants to lose weight and stay healthy. These tiny pumpkin seeds are rich in nutrients, which will help keep you going for a longer period of time. The seeds contain a lot of fiber that will keep you hydrated and stop you from eating too much.
Improves hair growth
Pumpkin seeds contain cucurbitacin, which are specific amino acids that help in hair growth. These are also rich in vitamin C, which also plays an important role in hair growth. You can apply pumpkin seed oil on the skin or eat a handful of pumpkin seeds every day to see results.
Rich in antioxidants
Pumpkin seeds contain antioxidants such as vitamin E and carotenoids. These help reduce inflammation and protect the cells from harmful free radicals. This in turn protects your body against various diseases.
In a study of rats, it was found that inflammation in rats with arthritis was reduced by giving them pumpkin seed oil. On the other hand, rats that received anti-inflammatory drugs had negative side effects, and rats that received pumpkin seed oil had no side effects.
Reduces your risk for certain cancers
Diets rich in pumpkin seeds have been found to be associated with a lower risk for stomach, lung, breast, colon and prostate cancers.
Another study found that consumption of pumpkin seeds reduces the risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women.
Sperm quality may improve
Low zinc levels are associated with lower sperm quality and an increased risk for infertility in men. Because pumpkin seeds are rich in zinc, their consumption can help improve sperm quality.
A study of mice found that pumpkin seeds protect human sperm from damage caused by autoimmune disease and chemotherapy.
The various antioxidants in the seeds improve testosterone health. All of these factors together can help improve reproductive function in males.
Ways to eat pumpkin seeds
– Roasted dried pumpkin seeds can be a snack
– Grind some pumpkin seeds and add them to your salads and carrots.
– Garnish your cupcakes with raw / roasted / grated pumpkin seeds.
– Add pumpkin seeds to the trail mixture
– Add pumpkin seeds in your smoothies
– Mix them in your home bags