Did you know that pumpkin seeds have tremendous health benefits? Did you know these seeds that many dispose of could be just as good as the pumpkin itself, or even better?
Pumpkin seeds are usually flat and encased in a yellow-white husk, although some varieties produce seeds without shells.
Benefits
Hanisa Bachou, a nutritionist, says pumpkin seeds contain minerals, especially zinc. Zinc is one of the most important micronutrients essential for metabolism.
She adds that zinc promotes prostate health. Deficiency of zinc leads to conditions such as impotence.
Dr David Ssali, a dermatologist at Derma Medical Centre, says pumpkin seeds are a good source of magnesium, beta carotene, Omega 3, 6, and 9 essential oils as well as vitamins B and K.
Older people need to include more zinc-rich foods in their diet, such as pumpkin seeds to increase bone strength. Although osteoporosis is often thought to be a disease for which post-menopausal women are at highest risk, it is also a potential problem for older men.
The healing properties of pumpkin seeds have been linked to preventing arthritis.
According to online sources, pumpkin seeds contain compounds found with a chemical structure similar to cholesterol, and when present in sufficient amounts, they reduce levels of cholesterol in the blood, enhance immunity, decrease risk cancer and prevent obesity.
Pumpkin seeds also provide a wide range of traditional nutrients. Food ranking systems qualify them as a very good source of magnesium, manganese and phosphorus, and a good source of iron, copper, protein, and as previously mentioned, zinc.
They also help relieve nervous exhaustion, because they contain L-tryptophan, a compound that is effective against depression.
Pumpkin seeds also help dissolve gall and kidney stones.
They contain anti-inflammatory properties without the harmful side effect of anti-inflammatory drugs and stimulate appetite.
Because pumpkin seeds contain calcium, they are beneficial for the teeth, gums, nerves, hair and nails.
They also relieve constipation and are good for diabetic patients.
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