January 23, 2017
I love pumpkin seeds. They are the best snack to bring on the go. Pumpkin seeds are edible kernels of pumpkins. They are available year round. The seeds are concentrated sources of many health-benefiting vitamins, minerals, anti-oxidants, and essential amino.
The list of health benefits include:
- Pumpkin seeds are filled with lots of minerals including phosphorus, magnesium, manganese, iron and copper
- High in immune boosting mineral zinc
- Good source of vitamin K and E
- They are the most alkaline-forming seed
- Pumpkin seeds are an excellent source of vitamin Bs
- Natural treatment for parasites and tapeworms
- Good for prostate and ovarian health
- Pumpkin seeds contain L-tryptophan, which helps promote sleep and fight depression. Tryptophan is converted into serotonin and niacin, which aids in sleeping
- Pumpkin seeds are the best source of plant-based omega 3s
- help improve insulin regulation and help prevent diabetic complications
- increases HDL
- high source of fiber and protein
- has anti-inflammatory benefits
To reap all the health benefits of pumpkin seeds, they are best eaten raw but since some nuts and seeds have anti-nutrients like phytic acid that can make all the important health benefits discussed above, less bioavailable when you consume them, it is best to soak or sprout them.
TIPS:
- add pumpkin seeds to salads or smoothies
- make your own pumpkin seed butter by blending them in a food processor
- make your very own trail mix by adding raw pumpkin seeds, goji berries and roasted coconut slices mmm yum!
Tania
