Pumpkin seeds are probably one of the most underrated food items with many health benefits. A quarter cup of raw pumpkin seeds gives around 150 calories, 15 grams of healthful fat, carbs, and nearly 8 to 10 grams of plant protein. Pumpkin seeds are very rich in many types of nutrients also.
Here we have curated seven health benefits of pumpkin seeds.
Read on:
- Rich in Minerals
Raw pumpkin seeds are rich in minerals like magnesium, manganese, iron, zinc, and copper. Among these minerals, magnesium aids in improving mood and sleep, and manganese helps in collagen production and improves skin and bone health. Iron and copper provide energy along with transporting oxygen to our body cells. Zinc improves immunity, skin health, and eye power.
Also Read: Various Ways of Getting Vitamin D without being Exposed to Sun
- Contains Antioxidants
Along with the minerals, pumpkin seeds are rich in cell protective antioxidants, like carotenoids and vitamin E. These antioxidants help in curbing inflammation, along with protection from premature aging and various types of chronic diseases.
- Full of Beneficial Fats
Pumpkin seeds are considered a very good source of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids, known as alpha-linolenic acid or ALA. Only a small amount of ALA is transformed into the significant DHA and EPA omega-3s, which are available in fatty fish like salmon. Nevertheless, the advantages of ALA include protection from many heart diseases protection, decreasing the risk of artery hardening, and also helping in curbing inflammation.
- Controls Blood Sugar
Pumpkin seeds are low in carbs and are rich in plant protein, and pumpkin seeds provide protection against type 2 diabetes or decrease its complications in many ways, as it helps in improving insulin regulation, and defending organs against the concerns related to diabetes.
- Improves the Immune System
Along with zinc and iron in pumpkin seeds, both of which are good for immune function, pumpkin seeds also contain anti-fungal and anti-viral properties. Pumpkin seeds never cause problems like allergies and intolerances.
- Improve Sperm Quality
Both pumpkin seeds and pumpkin seed oil are quite good for prostate health. The zinc available in them may help in improving male fertility, as low zinc levels is linked with low sperm quality.
- Helps in Hair Growth
Pumpkin seeds oil helps in treating male pattern baldness and helps in hair growth. It contains fatty acids, vitamin E, and phytoestrogens and helps in boosting hair growth. You have to apply pumpkin seeds oil on your scalps and it helps a lot to control baldness and even helps in hair growth.
