Since more than 7,500 years ago in the Oaxaca Highlands of Mexico, pumpkin seeds have been used nutritionally. Pumpkin seeds have an amazing nutrient profile that is beneficial to many aspects of your health, as confirmed by modern science. They lower risk factors for chronic diseases, including cancer, because they are an excellent source of protein, unsaturated fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals.
Five health benefits of Pumpkin Seeds:
1. Reduced Inflammation Impact: Antioxidants, which shield our cells from harm caused by disease and lower inflammation levels in our bodies, are abundant in pumpkin seeds. They can strengthen this effect because they’re also an excellent source of dietary fibre. Research indicates that the anti-inflammatory properties of pumpkin seeds can support the preservation of healthy liver, bladder, bowel, and joint function.
2. Decreased Diabetes Risk: Magnesium, which most people don’t get enough of in their diets, is abundant in pumpkin seeds. The presence of magnesium lowers your risk of developing diabetes by regulating blood sugar levels. According to studies, eating pumpkin seeds can help diabetics control their blood sugar levels and better manage their condition.
3. Anti-Tumor Characteristics: According to lab research, pumpkin seeds can inhibit the growth of cancer cells related to the breast and prostate. They also cause cancer cells to undergo apoptosis, or die. The high antioxidant activity of pumpkin seeds is largely responsible for these effects, but further research is required to examine a wider variety of cancers.
4. Optimal Heart Function: Pumpkin seeds’ high magnesium content lowers and regulates blood pressure. Because of this, diets rich in magnesium are linked to a decreased risk of heart disease-related death and stroke.
5. Improved Sleep: Before going to bed, having a pumpkin seed snack may improve your quality of sleep. Tryptophan is an amino acid that naturally occurs in pumpkin seeds and aids in sleep. Pumpkin seeds contain zinc, copper, and selenium, which can also impact the quantity and quality of sleep. Lastly, research indicates that magnesium may aid in lowering anxiety and stress, two factors that contribute to insomnia.
