Pumpkin seeds were used to treat tapeworm infections, prostate, and urinary problems.
Pumpkin seeds are called super-foods because are rich in essential minerals, like manganese, phosphorus, copper, magnesium, and zinc. Also, they are rich in antioxidants and provide generous amounts of Vitamin A and Vitamin E, and have essential vitamins, such as Vitamin B and Vitamin K.
Also, pumpkin seeds are having adequate amounts of potassium and sodium. You can sprinkle pumpkin seeds on your salads or you can add them to your daily cereal.
The allergies caused by pumpkin seeds are rare but their occurrence is still possible. If you experience breathing troubles, nasal congestion, rashes on the skin or swelling when you consume pumpkin seeds, then you should talk with your doctor.
Pumpkin seeds are high in fiber but chewing them can get a little tough which could lead to indigestion by irritating the esophageal lining. This is a reason why you should chew pumpkin seeds well before you swallow them.
Pumpkin seeds are rich in fiber so if you eat a lot of them, then it can cause diarrhea. There are some people who have reported that pumpkin seeds trigger migraine headaches.
Here are 7 health benefits of pumpkin seeds
Pumpkin seeds ease insomnia
Insomnia is sleep deprivation. Insomnia is caused by a lesser secretion of serotonin in the body. Serotonin is a rest hormone that induces the feeling of well-being.
Pumpkin seeds have tryptophan and this element is easily broken down to serotonin in the body and also it can induce peaceful sleep. Those people who suffer from sleeplessness, anxiety, and depression can use pumpkin seed oil.
Lower the risk of all-cause mortality
You can eat a handful of raw, sprouted or roasted pumpkin seeds on a daily basis because it can lower the risk of all–cause mortality. Pumpkin seeds have magnesium which has shown a 40% reduction in all–cause mortality and death from cardiovascular disease. Also, magnesium can help with a 50% reduction in death caused by cancer.
Keep you full for long
Pumpkin seeds have high fiber content which is making them a great addition to your morning breakfast. It can induce a feeling of fullness for long period and it will keep you from snacking pointlessly.
Pumpkin seeds reduce the incidence of anemia caused by iron deficiency
There are some studies in which are shown that the consumption of iron–rich foods like pumpkin seeds can help to improve the iron status in kids, pregnant women, women of childbearing age, and adolescents. This is making pumpkin seeds a great dietary supplement to reduce the risk of anemia that is caused by iron deficiency.
You need to talk with your doctor about the recommended dosage of pumpkin seeds for your iron deficiency.
Pumpkin seeds balance the body’s pH levels
These seeds are one of the best alkaline-forming foods which you should include in your diet. When our bodies are too acidic, then we have an increased risk of chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, arthritis, cancer, and osteoporosis. This is a reason why you should include alkaline foods in your diet.
Pumpkin seeds improve brain health
One of the most common problems among older people is neurodegeneration. The prevention of it depends on dietary habits and a good lifestyle. Pumpkin seeds have good amounts of alpha-linolenic acid, which is a type of Omega – 3 acid, and it is essential for maintaining brain health. There are some studies in which are shown that polyunsaturated fatty acids, especially Omega – 3 fatty acids, can help to reduce the speed at which the brain ages, and this can lower the turnover of membrane fatty acids which are caused by free radical damage.
Relieves urinary incontinence
There are many studies which are found that the salutary activity of pumpkin seeds can give relief from overactive bladder and urinary incontinence. Pumpkin seeds are water – soluble and they can help to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles which tend to lose tone and they become weak as women age. In many cases, this is caused by reduced levels of estrogen due to menopause and the weakened pelvic floor muscles are causing urinary incontinence.
