Pumpkin seeds have been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. They are a rich source of magnesium, calcium, potassium, iron, zinc and vitamin K. This makes them an excellent choice for snacking because they are rich in omega 3 fatty acids that are necessary for the body to maintain healthy the heart and regulate the blood pressure. Discover all the amazing and healthy benefits of pumpkin seeds and here are 9 reasons why you should consume them instead of all those unhealthy snacks.
A research which was conducted by Spanish scientists has shown that pumpkin seeds contain compounds that can successfully fight cancer cells. Another study, this time of German scientists confirmed that women who have gone through menopause and are eating pumpkin seeds on daily basis have a 23 percent lower risk of developing breast cancer.
Pumpkin seed oil is used to treat prostate enlargement (hyperplasia). This oil contains phytochemicals and antioxidants that reduce the level of free radicals in the body and prevent the formation of cancer cells.
If you are looking for a natural way to improve your mood and relieve the menopause symptoms, pumpkin seeds are an excellent choice. They regulate hot flashes, headaches, reduce joint pain and reduce the incidence of mood swings. Scientists have shown that pumpkin seeds increase the levels of good (HDL) cholesterol and regulate the blood pressure.
Studies have shown that pumpkin seeds can reduce bad cholesterol by 13 percent and total cholesterol by 10 percent. It also reduces the risk of blood clots, cardiovascular diseases, stroke and heart attack.
Pumpkin seeds are rich in healthy unsaturated fatty acids. It was found that they are good in regulating the sugar levels in the blood and they also increase the sensitivity of the body to insulin. Many experts claim that pumpkin seeds are a food that diabetics should eat every day.
They are a rich source of fiber and protein, the things that are key to weight loss. Only 30 grams of pumpkin seeds have about 5 grams of protein, which will keep you fuller for longer. However, they should be eaten in moderation because only a cup of pumpkin seeds contains about 285 calories.
Pumpkin seeds are excellent for physical as well as for the mental health. Scientists have found that pumpkin seeds show excellent results in reducing the symptoms of depression. They are also excellent for reducing the stress and anxiety. One study has shown that pumpkin seeds also increase sexual desire.
Scientists have found that pumpkin seeds have anti-inflammatory properties that relieve the symptoms of arthritis. If you suffer from arthritis, you should eat about 30 grams of pumpkin seeds every day in order to ease the symptoms of arthritis.
People who are lacking zinc should start consuming pumpkin seeds immediately. Pumpkin seeds are an excellent source of zinc, a mineral that is required for building up the bones. Only 1/4 cup of pumpkin seeds contains more than 17 percent of the recommended daily value of zinc.
Source: articles.mercola.com