Pumpkin seeds are not just the seasonal fare that they once used to be when they were roasted following the pumpkin harvest in October. In fact, you can see people eating pumpkin seeds all year round due to their highly nutritional benefits.
So what are the healing benefits of pumpkin seeds, and how can we use them? you’re about to find out!
Nutritional profile of pumpkin seeds
Pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas, were discovered in Mexican caves as far back as 7,000 BC. North Americans were the first to use them as food and medicine. The nutritional profile of pumpkin seeds is increased when they are raw, and if stored for longer periods of time, they have been researched to increase in protein content. At nearly 750 calories per cup, they can be a quick, portable, and satisfying snack. So what kind of nutritional punch do pumpkin seeds contain?
An excellent source of vitamin K
Rich in riboflavin, folate, thiamin, B6, and niacin
Good source of vitamin A
Excellent source of manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, copper, zinc, and potassium
Contains beneficial amounts of selenium
Excellent source of healthy fats and dietary fibre
Quality source of vegan protein
Add a little seasoning such as sea salt, cayenne, or turmeric to increase the nutritional punch of these highly medicinal seeds.
Healing action of pumpkin seeds
Due to their high mineral and healthy fat content, pumpkin seeds can have number of healing benefits, including:
Lowering LDL cholesterol
Promote sleep and lower depression due to their tryptophan content
Helps prevent osteoporosis
Helps reduce inflammation
Prevent formation of kidney stones
A natural remedy for tapeworms and other parasites
Helps reduce the incidence of prostate related issues, such as frequent urination and cancer
Protects cardiovascular health
Helps raise testosterone levels naturally
Just a handful of pumpkin seeds a day can invoke some nice healing benefits, especially for men.
How to use pumpkin seeds in your diet
Pumpkin seeds can be used in a variety of ways in your diet, including:
Eaten on their own, either raw or slightly toasted (add healthy seasonings for more flavour and nutrition)
Sprinkle on salads or add to trail mix
Add to seed cracker recipes
Toast and add to breads and soups
Pumpkin seeds are easy to store and incredibly portable, so be sure to keep them in places where you may get the munchies like your office desk, car, or even out shopping. This will satisfy your stomach, and your taste buds to boot. What a great way to get their incredible healing benefits!
Derek A. Henry
Derek A. Henry, Founder of Healing the Body and the THRIVE Academy, used nutrition, supplementation, and a holistic lifestyle to naturally unravel 13 chronic disease conditions that conventional or alternative medical professionals couldn't help him resolve. As a result of this one-in-a-million health transformation and the knowledge acquired in the process, he is now happier and healthier than he has ever been and now educates, coaches, and inspires thousands of others to transform their health through a natural and holistic approach. Since 2014, he has helped his THRIVE Academy participants heal over 20 different chronic disease conditions, primarily related to digestive and autoimmune concerns.
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