Shko Faraj Agha
Pumpkin seeds, much like pumpkin seed oil, often get lost in the mix and are frequently discarded or ignored altogether in favor of the vibrant pumpkin pulp. Yet, pumpkins are an integral part of the holiday season. From pumpkin carving to sweet pumpkin spice and fresh pumpkin pie, it’s hard to imagine fall without this bright orange fruit.
Benefits of pumpkin seeds
Pumpkin seeds offer numerous benefits, making them a valuable addition to your diet year-round. These benefits encompass:
– Enhanced cardiovascular health
– Improved blood sugar regulation
– Elevated sleep quality
– And more
Did you know that pumpkin seeds have been used for centuries in various forms of traditional medicine? The pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima Linn.), believed to have originated in North America thousands of years ago, has its seeds discovered by archaeologists in certain Mexican regions dating back to around 7000 B.C.
These seeds have long been esteemed for their distinctive flavor and potent healing attributes. Indigenous North American groups frequently employed them to address gut-related issues, combat parasitic infections, and alleviate tapeworm symptoms. Meanwhile, Aztec communities regarded them as a source of nutrition and a sacred offering during religious ceremonies.
What advantages do pumpkin seeds offer? They are rich in essential nutrients, including:
– Amino acids
– Phytosterols
– Unsaturated fatty acids
– Phenolic compounds
– Tocopherols
– Cucurbitacins
– Vital minerals
Furthermore, they have been an integral part of therapeutic diets for centuries. In Ayurvedic practices, they are considered alkalizing, supporting blood health, acting as a natural diuretic, suppressing appetite, and enhancing male reproductive health. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, they are used to address various conditions such as parasitic infections and stomach discomfort, while also aiding lactation and digestion.
Modern research confirms that these seeds contain bioactive compounds with diverse effects, including anthelmintic, antidiabetic, antidepressant, antioxidant, antitumor, and cytoprotective properties.
Explore more benefits of consuming pumpkin seeds the next time you carve a Halloween pumpkin. They serve as a rich source of several essential nutrients, contributing to:
– Enhanced immune function
– Better heart health
– Regulated blood sugar levels
– Improved sleep patterns
– Enhanced male fertility
– Potent antioxidants combatting cancer cell growth
– Enhanced bladder function
7 things that happen in your body if you consume pumpkin seeds
1. Abundant Antioxidants
Pumpkin seeds are a potent source of antioxidants, combating free radical damage and safeguarding cells against oxidative stress. Research indicates that antioxidants may reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders.
2. Cardiovascular Health
The electrolytes, magnesium, potassium, and healthy fatty acids in pumpkin seeds and pumpkin seed oil can enhance heart health by reducing cholesterol levels and blood pressure, both risk factors for heart disease.
3. Blood Sugar Regulation
Pumpkin seeds regulate blood sugar levels due to their protein and fiber content, which slows sugar absorption. Combining them with flax further reduces diabetes complications.
4. Improved Sleep Quality
They contain nutrients like tryptophan and magnesium that promote better sleep quality. Tryptophan aids in the production of sleep-inducing chemicals like serotonin and melatonin, while magnesium improves various insomnia measures.
5. Enhanced Male Fertility
Rich in phytonutrients, antioxidants, fatty acids, and zinc, pumpkin seeds benefit male fertility and prostate health. They prevent sperm abnormalities and increase sperm count, even improving benign prostatic hyperplasia symptoms.
6. Anti-Cancer Properties
The high antioxidant content in pumpkin seeds may inhibit cancer cell growth. Phytoestrogen extracts have demonstrated anticancer properties, potentially aiding in breast cancer prevention and treatment.
7. Bladder Function
Pumpkin seeds alleviate benign prostatic hyperplasia symptoms, improving urination in men. Pumpkin oil can also enhance bladder function, correcting urinary dysfunction and addressing overactive bladder issues.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
Are they a health hazard? Many processed pumpkin seed products pack in excessive sodium and additives, posing potential health risks.
To safeguard your well-being, opt for low-sodium options with minimal ingredients. Go even healthier by choosing raw seeds or crafting them yourself.
Moreover, while their shells are edible, they may upset some stomachs and challenge those with swallowing difficulties. Consider hulled seeds, offering similar nutrients without these concerns.
Exercise moderation in consumption. Overindulgence could trigger unwelcome side effects such as constipation, bloating, or gas.
