Pumpkin seeds are some of the few edible, delicious, and nutritious seeds readily available. The seeds are usually flat and unevenly oval, covered in a white shell that can be peeled off that are usually eaten roasted. The seeds are nutrient- and calorie-rich, with a high concentration of protein, dietary fibre, and various micronutrients. They also contain plenty of fat, particularly linoleic and oleic acids.
Dr. Flavia Namaganda, a nutritionist, tells us that Pumpkin seeds have great heart benefits. They are a good source of both monounsaturated fats like oleic acid, which decreases ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol and raises ‘good’ cholesterol in the blood, as well as polyunsaturated fats like ALA, which protect against heart disease and lower the chance of arterial hardening.
“Pumpkin seeds are a good source of magnesium and may therefore assist in controlling blood pressure,” Dr. Namaganda said.
She states that, despite their small size, pumpkin seeds are high in omega-3, phosphorus, and manganese. As a result, these tiny seeds can help improve heart health, reduce inflammation, and regulate blood sugar levels.
Furthermore, they are full of vitamins and minerals; they contain significant amounts of vitamin K, potassium, iron, zinc, and copper. “Research says pumpkin seeds have many health benefits due to their high nutrient content and can be included as part of a healthy, balanced diet,” she says.
Pumpkin seeds are high in fibre, which, according to Dr. Namaganda, is essential for ensuring regular bowel movements and feeding the gut bacteria to ensure a healthy gut profile. You are able to accomplish your suggested daily fibre goal by eating pumpkin seeds.
Pumpkin seeds could be helpful in the battle against inflammation and delay the onset of ageing. Pumpkin seeds are rich in Carotenoids and vitamin E, two powerful antioxidants. Antioxidants aid in defending the body’s cells against the harm done by too many free radicals, dangerous molecules thought to be the cause of chronic illnesses including diabetes, cancer, and heart disease.
“Having trouble falling asleep? Take into account using pumpkin seeds in your diet for restful sleep. According to Dr. Namaganda, they contain the amino acid tryptophan, which is necessary for the process of conversion of the feel-good hormone serotonin into the sleep hormone melatonin.
“Melatonin production is crucial for promoting the best possible sleep,” Dr. Namaganda says.
Dr. Namaganda says that it’s important to maintain appropriate blood sugar levels because doing so lowers your risk of developing diabetes and heart disease.
Low testosterone levels, poor sperm quality, and a higher risk of male infertility are all related to zinc deficiency. They are also rich in antioxidants and other minerals, such as vitamin E and vitamin B9, that support fertility in men. Pumpkin seeds were also found to have significant antidepressant potential.
Pumpkin seeds are the best portable snack; you don’t need a lot of them to reap their multiple health benefits because they are nutrient-dense, according to Namaganda. Pumpkin seeds constitute a kitchen essential due to their many advantages. They offer both taste and texture and are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, protein, healthy fats, and fibre. They can be added to cereal, sprinkled on salads, or roasted and eaten whole.
