Benefits Of Pumpkin Seeds

Benefits Of Pumpkin Seeds

When we think health food most of us do not take into account various plant based products especially their seeds. If we were to google the healthiest foods, we would be surprised to find pumpkin seeds placed very high. As early as 1300s the natives of America were using pumpkin seeds regularly in their diets. They were a big part of the European and Mediterranean cuisines. In Asia and more specifically India, pumpkin seeds were used for their medicinal value. These little seeds pack a lot of goodness in them. Right from minerals to antioxidants, proteins to fats, everything is present right in them.

Benefits Of Pumpkin Seeds

BENEFITS

THEY ARE FULL OF MAGNESIUM
Magnesium is a very important mineral for the smooth functioning of all bodily functions. Eating pumpkin seeds will take care of a large portion of the amount required by the body. It is important in regulating blood pressure and regulating pumping of the heart thus preventing sudden heart attack, stroke and cardiac arrest. It is also beneficial in the proper formation of teeth and bone. It helps to relax our blood vessels and improves our bowel movement. Yet most people tend to ignore this single most important element in their diet. Eating just a quarter cup of pumpkin seeds a day can give our system an immense boost.

THEY ARE GOOD FOR IMMUNITY

Zinc is an another important mineral that needs to be included into our daily diet. Most people who have a largely plant based diet will have a deficiency of this mineral. Pumpkin seeds will however provide for most of it. Zinc as a mineral prevents cold and boosts the immune system. It also improves the functioning of the eye and promotes healthy skin. The lack of zinc can cause poor concentration in children. In pregnant women the deficiency of zinc can cause poor growth of the fetus. Just a cup full of pumpkin seeds is enough to supply us with our daily dose of zinc and improve our immunity so you never face depression and chronic fatigue.

VERY IMPORTANT FOR HEALTHY PROSTRATES

Men suffer from the problem of prostrate. Since long, pumpkin seeds are known to have a positive effect on men’s health. Lots of research work has shown that consuming pumpkin seeds on a daily basis has lots of benefits for men. The zinc present in the pumpkin seeds can help improve the health of the prostrate that has got enlarged. Also pumpkin seed extract and pumpkin seed oil releases protective compounds which can help in the shrinking of the prostrate.

BENEFICIAL IN INSOMNIA
Insomnia is the malice of the modern world. Most of us are unable to fall asleep. Melatonin is the hormone that helps us in falling asleep. Pumpkin seeds have a substance called tryptophan in them. This tryptophan will get converted to melatonin if taken properly. To get the maximum benefit of this compound, pumpkin seeds should be eaten at least an hour before you sleep, preferably with a fruit. These small powerful seeds will help us in getting a restful sleep.

GOOD FOR OVERALL HEALTH
Among the many benefits of pumpkin seeds we will also find that they can be used to manage diabetes. Also they are helpful in the maintenance of insulin production and also prevent complications caused due to diabetes. They are very helpful in relieving the symptoms of menopause, like hot flashes, low blood pressure, headache and joint pains. These little seeds have an amazing amount of antioxidants, omega-3 fats and fibers. They keep our heart and liver healthy and keep us happy as they also have antidepressant properties.

HOW TO CONSUME PUMPKIN SEEDS
It is very easy to preserve and keep these seeds, they don’t even need refrigeration. Pumpkin seeds taste best when they are roasted at low temperature and can be consumed by adding little salt to them. It is best to buy organic seeds as they will be free of chemicals and pesticides. These seeds can provide you a lot of minerals and nutrients along with a mouth watering crunchy snack.

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