Rich in nutrients, calories, fat, protein and fiber, pumpkin seeds are great for health. But pumpkin seeds are calorie-dense, so limiting portions is important to help manage a healthy weight. Experts recommend having a handful of pumpkin seeds in your meals to reap the health benefits. Pumpkin seeds have many health benefits, from better blood sugar control, and improved fertility, to better heart health and protection against certain cancers.
1. Powerful Antioxidant
These seeds are a storehouse of antioxidants, which protect our cells from damage caused by disease and reduce inflammation in our bodies.
2. Protect Heart Health
The antioxidants present in pumpkin seeds also protect our heart from various disorders. They also contain high levels of magnesium, which lowers high blood pressure and lowers bad cholesterol levels (low-density lipoprotein or LDL), thus reducing the risk of heart diseases.
3. Lower High Blood Sugar
Pumpkin seeds can prove to be a boon for diabetics. Some experts suggest that the high magnesium content in pumpkin seeds may be responsible for its positive effects on high blood sugar levels.
4. Increase immunity
The presence of vitamin E and zinc in pumpkin seeds makes them a good immunity booster. Vitamin E improves immunity and provides a shield against infectious diseases. Zinc also boosts immunity by protecting our body from inflammation, allergies and invading pathogens. Pumpkin seeds have antimicrobial, antifungal and antiviral properties.
5. Anti-carcinogenic properties
According to WebMD, “Laboratory studies suggest that pumpkin seeds may inhibit the growth of breast and prostate cancer cells. They also induce apoptosis, or cancer cell death.” However, more research is needed to study a wider range of cancers.
6. Promote Better Sleep
A natural source of tryptophan, an amino acid that promotes sleep, eating some pumpkin seeds before hitting the sack can ensure a better night’s sleep.
7. Improve reproductive health
Zinc improves fertility in men by improving the quality and quantity of sperm and pumpkin seeds are rich in zinc. Consuming zinc-rich foods is also considered beneficial for pregnant women.
8. Deal with depression and anxiety
Magnesium is known to reduce stress and anxiety and calm our mind. Pumpkin seeds are rich in magnesium.
Also read: 7 Amazing Health Benefits Of Coconut Water
9. Promote Hair Health
Pumpkin seeds are believed to have a positive effect on our hair, making them silky and strong.
10. Good for the skin
Not just hair, eating pumpkin seeds regularly has positive effects on skin health as well. It also helps fight wrinkles and acne.