Pumpkin seeds also known as pepitas which is a type of squash. These seeds are often flattened and oval in shape with a white outer husk and a green inner kernel. It have a mild, nutty flavor and are commonly eaten as a snack or used as an ingredient in various dishes.
Pumpkin seeds are the edible seeds of the pumpkin fruit. These seeds are the 'powerhouse of nutrition'. Their shape is somewhat oval and light green colored seeds are obtained after removing the outer white cover.
In the realm of culinary artistry, pumpkin seeds become both palette and canvas. As standalone snacks, they showcase their simple charm, whether roasted and salted or allowed to shine in their raw splendor
Pumpkin seeds were once used in traditional medicine as an anthelmintic to expel tapeworm parasites, such as the Taenia tapeworm. As a result, the seeds were listed as an antiparasitic in the United States Pharmacopoeia from 1863 to 1936. to be done.
Healthy benefits of pumpkin seeds
Nutritional Value.
Pumpkin seeds are rich in nutrients and offer many potential health benefits that enhance heart and bone health.
They are also rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants such as selenium and beta-carotene. Additionally, they are a high source of iron. One cup of pumpkin seeds contains 9.52 milligrams (mg) of iron, which is a significant portion of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of 18 milligrams for premenopausal women and 8 milligrams for men and postmenopausal women.
Pumpkin seeds are a good source of various nutrients, including protein, healthy fats, fiber, vitamins (such as vitamin K and vitamin E), and minerals (such as magnesium, iron, zinc, and potassium).
Powerful Antioxidant.
Pumpkin seeds have great antioxidant capacity due to the presence of vitamin E and carotenoids.
These antioxidants help reduce inflammation and also protect our body from free radical damage. Thus, they provide us protection from innumerable diseases.
Facts based healthy benefits
Decreased risk of some cancers.
Some research suggests that pumpkin seeds may contain plant compounds that may help protect against the development of cancer.
In fact, a 2012 observational study found that eating pumpkin seeds reduced the risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women.Other older studies suggest that the lignans in pumpkin seeds may play an important role in preventing and treating breast cancer.
In addition, a test-tube study found that pumpkin seed extract has the potential to slow the growth and spread of prostate cancer cells.
Improve prostate and bladder health.
Several studies on humans have shown that eating these seeds reduced symptoms associated with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia(BPH).
In a 2021 study Trusted Source, consuming pumpkin seed oil was able to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life in 73 people with BPH. Additionally, although pumpkin seed oil was not as effective as prescription medication, it was associated with fewer negative side effects.
Further research suggests that taking pumpkin seeds or their products as a supplement might help treat symptoms of overactive bladder.
An older study in 45 people with overactive bladder found that taking 10 grams of pumpkin seed oil extract daily improved urinary function.
Improve heart health.
Human and animal studies have also shown that pumpkin seed oil may lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which are two important risk factors for heart disease.
One older, 12-week study in 35 postmenopausal women found that pumpkin seed oil supplements lowered diastolic blood pressure by 7% and increased HDL (good) cholesterol levels by 16%.
Other research suggests that pumpkin's ability to increase nitric oxide production in your body may be responsible for its positive effects on heart health.
May lower blood sugar levels
One study in healthy adults found that those who consumed a meal containing 65 grams (about 2 ounces) of pumpkin seeds reduced blood sugar levels after a high-carb meal.Interestingly, the high magnesium content present in pumpkin seeds may be responsible for its positive effects on diabetes.
A large observational study found that people who consumed the most magnesium had a 15% lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes than those who consumed the least amount of magnesium over a 28-year period. was consumed.
Still, more research is needed to confirm these beneficial effects of pumpkin seeds on blood sugar levels.
Sexual, prostate, and urinary health
These seeds are also rich in zinc, which may benefit male fertility. According to a 2018 study, it can improve both the quality and quantity of sperm.
A 2019 study found that pumpkin seed extract may be useful for people with benign prostatic hyperplasia, a type of prostate enlargement that can cause trouble urinating.
How to consume pumpkin seeds?
The best way to use pumpkin seeds is to roast them and eat them as a snack.We also get pumpkin seeds oil and pumpkin seed butter in the market.
- Curd
- Fruit
- salad
- Soup
- Cereal
- Bread
- Cake
- energy bars
Side effects of consuming pumpkin seeds
Eating pumpkin seeds in excess can cause abdominal pain, flatulence, bloating and constipation. Since pumpkin seeds are rich in calories, eating them in excess can lead to weight gain.
Pumpkin seeds help in lowering the blood sugar level. Diabetics taking medicines and people suffering from hypoglycemia should also consume these seeds in small quantities.
Precaution of Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are not safe for infants.
Pumpkin seeds have mild diuretic properties. If combined with diuretic drugs, they may react poorly. It can also trigger edema, renal disorders or specific cardiac problems. Consuming these while you are taking diuretic medications can also lead to a mineral imbalance.
Pumpkin seeds are not safe for infants.
These little tidbits are wonderful for our health, but they are not healthy for babies.Fibre and fatty acids are not as suitable for babies as they are for adults. They can cause abdominal pain, cramps, vomiting, maybe even diarrhoea in infants. While they are rich in protein and iron, they are not for babies.
May not be safe for pregnant or lactating women.
Lack of research proves whether pumpkin seeds are safe during this period.But there is also not enough evidence that they are harmful during this time. It is best to consume in safe amounts if you wish to. It would be best to do so only after consulting your doctor.
Not safe for people with hypoglycemia.
Pumpkin seeds are an ideal snack for people with diabetes. They help lower your blood sugar which is not suitable for people with hypoglycemia.
Also, they lower your blood glucose levels and may clash with your anti-diabetic medication. They can be quite dangerous for people with hypoglycemia.
Unsafe for people with low blood pressure.
Pumpkin seeds are great for people with high blood pressure. The antioxidants present in them help in lowering your blood pressure. If you suffer from hypotension, pumpkin seeds can worsen your condition. Can make a dangerous combination with antihypertensive medication.
Summary
Pumpkin seeds also known as pepitas which is a type of squash. These seeds are often flattened and oval in shape with a white outer husk and a green inner kernel.Pumpkin seeds are the edible seeds of the pumpkin fruit. Pumpkin seeds are rich in nutrients and offer many potential health benefits that enhance heart. Seeds have great antioxidant capacity due to the presence of vitamin E and carotenoids.
It has the potential to slow the growth and spread of prostate cancer cells. Increase nitric oxide production in your body may be responsible for its positive effects on heart health. Way to use pumpkin seeds is to roast them and eat them as a snack. Since pumpkin seeds are rich in calories, eating them in excess can lead to weight gain. It can cause abdominal pain, cramps, vomiting, maybe even diarrhoea in infants. While they are rich in protein and iron, they are not for babies.
However, Pumpkin seeds used in traditional medicine as an anthelmintic to expel tapeworm parasites, such as the Taenia tapeworm.
Conclusion
In this we have given information about Facts based on the healthy benefits of pumpkin seeds. Do let us know if you have any feedback. You can email us by going to Contacts Us. Please note that the given data or information are taken from online sources.