Health Benefits Of Pumpkin Seeds
1. Boosts Your Immune System
Pumpkins seeds are high in zinc which have been shown to boost our immune systems. Not only is this the season for ghosts and goblins, but is also cold and flu season. Zinc is responsible for cell division, DNA synthesis and growth and development. Enjoying a season favourite like baked pumpkin seeds as a snack is an easy way to help fight viruses and germs.
2. Boost Heart Health
Pumpkin seeds are a good source of magnesium. A quarter cup can provide half the RDA to help maintain heart health. Magnesium found in pumpkin seeds has also been shown to help lower blood pressure, help prevent cardiac arrest and stroke, relaxation of blood vessels, improve bone and tooth formation and improve bowel movements.
3. Boosts Brain Function
Another function of zinc that is found in pumpkin seeds, is it enhances memory and focus. Pumpkin seeds help enhance cognitive function and improve memory.
4. Boost Healing
Pumpkin seeds contain PROTEIN and various vitamins and minerals which help strengthen and heal cells. From post workout muscle soreness to arthritis, post menopausal symptoms to cellular inflammation, pumpkin seeds help heal and build!
5. Boosts Prostate Health
Again with the zinc... it has been shown to help maintain prostate health. In fact, pumpkin seeds and pumpkins oils may help in treatment of enlarged prostate.
6. Boosts The Body's Ability To Fight Bloat
Pumpkin seeds contain fiber and complex carbs which help relieve bloat and aid in healthy digestion. They will help you feel full when dieting as well!
7. Boosts The Body's Ability To Reduce Stress
Protein is comprised of amino acids. One particular amino acid found in pumpkin seeds is glutamate which has been shown to reduce stress. It is part of the make up of GABA which is an anti-stress neurochemical in the brain. This can help reduce anxiety and irritability.
8. Boosts Sleep
Pumpkin seeds contain the amino acid tryptophan. This essential amino acid is converted by the body into serotonin and then into melatonin. This has been shown to help promote deep, restful sleep.
9. Boosts The Body's Ability To Cope With Menopausal Issues
Pumpkin seeds and oils may help with hot flashes, insomnia, decrease blood pressure, help with headaches and joint pain.
10. Is an Anti-Inflammatory Pumpkin seeds can help with cellular inflammation responsible for many sickness. They have been shown to reduce inflammation in those with arthritis as well.
Pumpkin seeds have a host of health benefits. Without getting too much into the technical side of things, I've found they contain fiber which has been shown to aid in digestion, bloat and assist in weight loss. They contain protein which is essential for anyone working out looking to increase and repair muscle damaged from workouts... In fact 1/4 cup contains about 10 grams of quality protein! They contain zinc which is essential for immune health. Pumpkin seed also contain glutamate and tryptophan which help to de stress and relax the body and brain! Before you toss those seeds in the garbage when you are carving your pumpkin, let them dry out, season and bake. See the quick, basic recipe below or search google for more great recipe ideas!
BAKING PUMPKIN SEEDS
1. Rinse The seeds and pat dry with paper towel.
2. Sprinkle a tablespoon of veggie oil on a baking sheet and spread the seeds on top of the baking sheet. be sure to spread them out evenly and not layer them.
3. Preheat the oven to 300 degrees.
4. Season the seeds with your favourite topping ie. kosher salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy), cinnamon sugar etc.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Be sure to let cool completely before eating.