Health Benefits of Pumpkin Seeds
A squash plant cultivar, pumpkins are round plants that have a smooth skin that is slightly ribbed with colors ranging from deep yellow to orange. The seeds and pulp of the pumpkin are contained in its thick shell. Pumpkins are native to North America but are currently found in various parts of the world where they are grown for a wide variety of uses such as for ornamental sales, commercial purposes or even as animal feed. Over recent years, pumpkin seeds have proven to be of great benefits to the human health. They are being used by several countries all over the world to control, prevent or even treat certain illnesses.
Using the pumpkin seeds is quite easy. You need to begin by extracting them from the pumpkin itself. Remove the seeds from the cavity of the pumpkin and wipe them with a paper towel to get rid of the extra pulp stuck on them. Evenly spread them on a soft surface like a paper bag and air them out overnight. There are also a number of stores that sell these seeds and you can readily acquire them, saving you the extraction process. You should then proceed to roast the seeds lightly for about 20 minutes. You can then add the roasted pumpkin to your meal or salad and enjoy its health benefits.
Pumpkin seeds are very essential in boosting the health of the heart. This can be attributed to the fact that the seeds have some pretty high magnesium content. The magnesium is crucial for a wide variety of important physiological roles such as in the secretion of ATP. Magnesium has been studied to have blood benefits and is very effective in preventing abrupt cardiac arrest. It also helps in curbing cases of stroke as well as heart attack.
Pumpkin seeds have also exhibited characteristics of enhancing the immunity of those who take them. This is owed to its high zinc content. Besides in enhancing immunity, zinc is also important for the health of an individual as it enhances cell growth/division, sleep, boosts mood, and also improves the health of the senses. Skin health as well as insulin regulation are some of the other health benefits of this mineral.
Pumpkin seeds are among the best sources of omega-3 fats also known as the ALA or alpha-linolenic acid. It is the ALA that is converted to the more essential DHA and EPA which are very important for the functioning of the body.
For diabetes, pumpkin seeds have been observed to possess very effective controlling effects. The seeds are very efficient in helping boost insulin regulation, an action that really helps in the prevention or control of the condition. Consumption of the seeds helps in minimizing oxidative stress and thereby preventing diabetic attacks and complications.
As it is rich in antioxidant, fiber and healthy fat content, pumpkin seeds offer valuable benefits to both the liver and the heart, this is especially when it is coupled with flax seeds.
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