Pumpkin seeds

Pumpkin seeds are edible seeds which come from the pumpkin. They are normally flat and green in appearance, and can be eaten as a snack on their own or added to other dishes. They offer several health benefits, as they are a source of protein, vitamins and minerals.

Immune support

Pumpkins seeds are a source of zinc, which is an important mineral for the functioning of the immune system. Zinc can help you to fight off the common cold, as well as assisting in the healing of wounds. A small portion of pumpkin seeds can contain approximately 17% of the recommended daily allowance of zinc.

 

Pumpkin seeds are a good source of zinc, which supports immune system function and wound healing.

 

Bone health

The high amount of zinc contained in pumpkin seeds is also beneficial in the prevention of osteoporosis. Low zinc consumption has been linked to an increased risk of the condition.

Pumpkin seeds also contain copper, which is another important mineral for maintaining healthy bones.

Zinc and copper are both recommended for the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis.

Vitamin K, which is found in pumpkin seeds, has calcium regulating properties, so could be beneficial in maintaining healthy bones. It is believed that many people are deficient in this vitamin.

 

Healthy skin

Pumpkin seeds contain high levels of vitamin E, which can help to protect the skin and lips. Vitamin E can prevent dry, itchy skin, as well as aiding in the healing of wounds. As vitamin E has antioxidant properties, it can reduce the amount of damage done to the skin by free radicals.

 

Pumpkin seeds are rich in magnesium, which helps maintain healthy bones and muscles

 

Muscle and nerve function

Pumpkins seeds are a good source of magnesium, a mineral in which many people are deficient. This mineral is very important for maintaining a healthy muscle and nerve function, as well as supporting the immune system and metabolism. Snacking on pumpkin seeds daily is a very good way to increase your magnesium intake, as half a cup would contain more than 90% of the recommended daily allowance.

Emotional health

Tryptophan is an amino acid which is thought to be beneficial in reducing stress and anxiety, as well as encouraging healthy sleep patterns. Pumpkin seeds contain a fairly high amount of tryptophan, so adding them to your diet could be beneficial for your mood and emotional health.

Tryptophan is used in the treatment of depression. A deficiency of tryptophan could cause depression, or increased stress levels and sleeping difficulties.

 

Pumpkin seeds contain tryptophan, an amino acid that can help improve sleep and mood

 

Anti-inflammatory properties

Pumpkin seeds contain omega-3 and other fatty acids, which all have anti-inflammatory properties. Anti-inflammatory foods are important in preventing an overactive inflammation response, which could cause problems such as rheumatoid arthritis.

It has been found that pumpkin seeds can reduce inflammation, without the side effects sometimes associated with anti-inflammatory medication.

 

Pumpkin Seeds are a good source of fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and can aid in weight management

 

How to eat pumpkin seeds

Pumpkin seeds can simply be eaten raw as a snack, or they can be roasted.

They make an interesting addition to both sweet and savoury dishes, such as bread, granola and crumbles. There are many ways to include more pumpkin seeds in your diet, you can even garnish a cocktail with toasted pumpkin seeds!