Pumpkin seeds may be small, but they’re packed full of valuable nutrients. Eating only a small amount of them can provide you with a substantial quantity of healthy fats, magnesium and zinc.
Because of this, pumpkin seeds have been associated with several health benefits. These include improved heart health, prostate health and protection against certain cancers.
What’s more, these seeds can be easily incorporated into your diet. Here are the top health benefits of pumpkin seeds that you should know
1. Good for diabetics
Pumpkin seeds help in controlling the blood sugar levels by decreasing the oxidative stress. The seeds are also rich in digestible protein, which stabilises the blood sugar levels.
2. Reduce the cholesterol level
A study found that pumpkin seeds reduce bad cholesterol levels by 13%. Furthermore, they lower blood pressure, so they also reduce the risk of strokes, heart attacks and the formation of blood clots.
Pumpkin seeds are rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and provide healthy fats that may help preventing type 2 diabetes and heart diseases.
3. Boosts immunity
The seeds are rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals that help in boosting your immunity and reducing your chances of getting sick.
4. Helps you sleep better
Pumpkin seeds have Serotonin, a neurochemical that is considered a natural sleeping pill. These are also rich in Tryptophan, an amino acid that gets converted to serotonin in the body, improving the quality of your sleep. A handful of seeds before you go to bed can be an easy and natural way to get a good night’s sleep.
5. Prevent cancer
Pumpkin seeds are rich in antioxidants like carotenoids and vitamin E which can reduce inflammation and protect your cells from harmful free radicals.
They contain a complex that effectively fights cancer cells and has anti-inflammatory properties, which is why consuming pumpkin seeds rich in antioxidants can help protect against certain types of cancer.
6. Good for your heart
Pumpkin seeds have healthy fats, fibres and antioxidants that are good for your cardiovascular health. The tiny seeds also have monounsaturated fatty acids that help in lowering the bad cholesterol and increases good cholesterol. The magnesium in the seeds helps by regulating the blood pressure levels.
7. Promotes weight loss
More than half the world wants to lose weight and get fit. The tiny pumpkin seeds are densely rich in nutrients, which helps keep you fuller for longer. The seeds are high in fibre that keeps you satiated and stops you from binge eating.
