Benefits of Pumpkin Seeds
September 14, 2009
Hardly do we realize that the pumpkin seeds that we throw away after slicing the vegetable are rich in vitamins and minerals. Researchers have uncovered a large number of health benefits of pumpkin seeds.
Pumpkin seeds are also known as pepitas. A yellowish white hard casing usually covers the dark green colored flat pumpkin seeds. Pumpkin seeds are a rich source of vitamin K. It also contains manganese, magnesium, phosphorous, iron, copper and zinc.
Beneficial for people on low protein diet
If you are on a low protein diet, protein deficiency can harm your liver. Consumption of pumpkin seeds can prevent liver damage from protein deficiency. According to researchers, the antioxidant property of a protein found in pumpkin seeds can prevent liver damage from low protein diet. Moreover, pumpkin seeds have powerful antiperoxidative properties. Intake of pumpkin seeds can prevent harm from carbon tetrachloride ingestion.
For prostate health
Enlargement of the prostrate gland or benign prostatic hypertrophy affects a large number of men after 50 years of age. Studies have shown that intake of pumpkin seeds could protect the prostate gland from the harmful action of the sex hormone testosterone. Researchers believe that carotenoids, zinc and omega-3 fatty acids present in pumpkin seeds give the seeds their prostate protection property.
Builds immunity
Pumpkin seeds are rich in zinc. Zinc is needed to build a strong immune system. By boosting the body’s immunity, pumpkin seeds can prevent infections. Phytosterols, found in pumpkin seeds, further enhance the immune strengthening property of pumpkin seeds.
Good for bones
Consumption of pumpkin seeds is beneficial for the bones. Zinc present in pumpkin seeds can prevent osteoporosis. Studies have found a correlation between zinc deficiency and age related osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is one of the leading causes of spine and hip fracture. Pumpkin seeds can also arrest progression of arthritis. These seeds can heal inflammation of joints related to arthritis.
Lowers blood cholesterol
LDL or bad cholesterol in the blood stream could be reduced with pumpkin seeds intake. Pumpkin seeds contain phytosterol, a compound with a cholesterol-like chemical structure. These phytosterols can significantly lower the bad cholesterol in the blood.
Comments
Got something to say? Join the conversation and leave a comment below.