8 Pumpkin Seed Benefits for Weight Loss, Hair Growth and More

How about switching to a healthy snack instead of snacking on fried snacks during the rains? The rains make summers easier, but also increase a number of illnesses and infections.

Therefore, being aware of what you are eating and including healthy snacks in your diet could protect you from any possible illness. One of those snacks that you can always admire is pumpkin seed. Yes, you heard right.

With a variety of nutrients ranging from magnesium and copper, protein and zinc, these potent seeds will make snacking a healthy affair.

According to DK Publishing House's Healing Foods, pumpkin seeds are a good source of B vitamins, magnesium, iron, and protein.

The seeds have high levels of essential fatty acids which help maintain healthy blood vessels and lower unhealthy cholesterol in the blood.

Delhi-based nutritionist Lokendra Tomar shares: “Pumpkin seeds are powerhouses because they are a great source of protein, healthy fats and beneficial fiber. These wonderful seeds can be used as nutritional snacks for both men and women. They are ideal snacks because they fill your stomach for longer. They suppress the feeling of hunger because each 100 grams provides around 560 calories and almost 50% of the daily protein requirement. These seeds are a source of valuable nutrients such as zinc, magnesium, manganese, copper, antioxidants and phytosterols. ”

Here are some of the benefits of pumpkin seeds:

1. Heart-friendly

Pumpkin seeds are a rich source of healthy fats, fiber, and various heart-beneficial antioxidants. These seeds are made up of monounsaturated fatty acids which help lower bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol in the blood. The presence of magnesium in the seeds helps regulate blood pressure levels.

2. For a good night's sleep

Pumpkin seeds contain serotonin, a neurochemical, also known as a natural sleeping pill. Pumpkin seeds are rich in tryptophan, an amino acid that is converted into serotonin in the body, ensuring a good night's sleep. A handful of these seeds before bed will help you sleep to glory.

3. Anti-inflammatory Benefits

Pumpkin seeds are known to have anti-inflammatory properties and are known to reduce arthritis pain. Pumpkin seed oil is a good remedy for treating joint pain.

4. Strengthens immunity

The presence of large amounts of antioxidants and phytochemicals ensures a good immune system and further reduces the possibility of viral infections which can lead to colds, flu, fatigue and other ailments, in particular. especially during monsoons.

5. Improves Prostate Health

The Healing Foods book states that, with high zinc content, these seeds are helpful in promoting fertility in men and preventing prostate problems. Pumpkin seeds also contain DHEA (Di-hydro epi-androstenedione) which helps reduce the risk of prostate cancer.

6. A Boon for Diabetics

Pumpkin seeds help improve insulin regulation in diabetics and reduce oxidative stress. These seeds are a rich source of digestible protein that helps stabilize blood sugar.

7. Helps to lose weight.

It is one of the best snacks for weight loss. They may seem small, but they are very dense and heavy foods that help keep you full for longer. They're also high in fiber, which takes longer to digest, leaving you feeling full and craving.

8. Helps in Hair Growth

Pumpkin seeds are made up of cucurbitin, a unique amino that may be responsible for hair growth. Apart from that, they also contain Vitamin C which also plays a crucial role in hair growth. Apply pumpkin seed oil to your scalp to see results or just consume a handful per day.

How to eat pumpkin seeds

You can eat them raw or try dry roasted seeds as a snack. You can also use them in baking, as a garnish for soups and salads, or with granola. If you want to add these seeds to your diet, count on these two recipes to meet your healthy needs: Cottage Cheese Crusted with Walnut Seeds and Cucumber Salad with Pumpkin Seeds. Get healthy with these seeds of potency.