Do you know how beneficial small pumpkin seeds can be for your health? Often we ignore them or throw them away while cutting pumpkin, but if you know their properties, then perhaps you will make them a part of your diet. Pumpkin seeds are not only great in taste but also provide many unique benefits to your health. Today we will tell you what changes happen in your body by eating pumpkin seeds daily and what are the best ways to eat them.
Helpful in reducing inflammation
In today’s lifestyle, many people are troubled by the problem of inflammation, which affects the whole body. The element called lignans present in pumpkin seeds works to reduce inflammation in the body. Along with this, these seeds also act as powerful antioxidants, which reduce the risk of serious diseases like cancer. It has been found in many types of research that the elements present in pumpkin seeds can block the blood vessels in the body, which work to deliver oxygen and nutrition to the tumour, which slows down the growth of cancer cells.
Maintains heart health
If you want your heart to remain healthy for a long time, then definitely include pumpkin seeds in your diet. These seeds are low in saturated fat and rich in heart-friendly protein. They are also rich in magnesium, which helps in controlling blood pressure. According to the American Heart Association, magnesium-rich foods help reduce the risk of heart disease.
Helpful in strengthening immunity
In today’s busy life, it is very important to have strong immunity. Pumpkin seeds are an excellent source of zinc, which strengthens the immune system and reduces the duration of diseases like colds and coughs. Apart from this, the protein and magnesium present in them help in maintaining energy in the body throughout the day, so that you do not feel weak.
Can improve sleep
If you do not sleep well at night or you have to get up frequently, then pumpkin seeds can be the solution to your problem. They contain an amino acid called tryptophan, which helps increase the production of serotonin and melatonin. Serotonin is called the ‘feel good’ hormone, which reduces stress, while melatonin makes sleep deep and comfortable. Therefore, eating a handful of pumpkin seeds before bedtime can improve the quality of your sleep.
Beneficial for men’s fertility
Pumpkin seeds are also very beneficial for men. The zinc found in them helps improve sperm quality and motility. Apart from this, these seeds can also be helpful in maintaining prostate health and increasing testosterone levels.
Helpful in keeping digestion healthy
If you have a constipation problem, then pumpkin seeds can help relieve it. The fibre present in them smoothens intestinal function and helps soften the stool. Apart from this, they contain magnesium, which makes bowel movement easier by relaxing the intestinal muscles.
Pumpkin Seed Nutrition Profile
Pumpkin seeds may be tiny, but they are packed with nutrients. According to the USDA, 28 grams (1 ounce) of pumpkin seeds contain the following nutrients:
Calories: 163
Carbohydrates: 4 grams
Fiber: 2 grams
Protein: 9 grams
Fat: 14 grams
Saturated fat: 2.4 grams
Magnesium: 156 mg
Zinc: 2 mg
Iron: 2 mg
Are pumpkin seeds safe for everyone?
Pumpkin seeds are generally safe for everyone, but caution is needed in some cases. If you have IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) and frequent diarrhoea, eating too many pumpkin seeds can cause gas and bloating. Also, people suffering from intestinal problems like diverticulitis should avoid eating them. And yes, if you are allergic to seeds, do not make the mistake of eating them.
Fun and easy ways to eat pumpkin seeds
Now that you know about the benefits of pumpkin seeds, let’s know some of the most delicious ways to eat them:
- Add it to salad: Sprinkling pumpkin seeds on salad enhances both its taste and nutrition.
- Add it to smoothies: Add pumpkin seeds to your morning smoothie and make it more healthy.
- Add it to the soup: Whether it is pumpkin soup or any other, add pumpkin seeds to add crunch to it.
- Eat with yoghurt: Add them to yoghurt to make them more delicious and healthy.
- Eat it roasted: Roast pumpkin seeds by adding mild spices and eat them as a snack.
Pumpkin seeds are a small but mighty superfood that benefits every part of the body, from the heart to the digestive system. If you are looking for a healthy snack, then definitely include them in your diet. And yes, enjoy the taste by trying new ways of eating them.