Besides helping us prepare the most delicious cakes, the pumpkin is one of the healthiest autumn foods. It is rich in betacarotene, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and contains many vitamins and minerals necessary for our body. We must not ignore, however, the amazing benefits of pumpkin seeds, which have miraculous effects on our health.
Pumpkin seeds are a an extremely healthy noutrient, and are said to have amazing medicinal properties, helping to prevent and cure many diseases. They contain magnesium, calcium, potassium, zinc and fatty acids, which together contribute to the proper functioning of the heart, the bone system, and strengthen the immune system.
Benefits of pumpkin seeds on our bodies
Strengthening the immune system
Pumpkin seeds contain a powerful antioxidant effect and are rich in zinc, a mineral that regulates and strengthens the immune system, while protecting the body from free radicals. Zinc is recommended as an adjuvant in the treatment of colds, as it helps cells to quickly regenerate, especially if it is ingested within the first 24 hours of the first symptoms.
Pumpkin seeds reduce inflammation
Pumpkin seeds act as a natural anti-inflammatory, reducing the discomfort experienced in arthritis. Due to the high content of zinc, a regular consumption of raw pumpkin seeds can also prevent osteoporosis.
Protecting the heart
Pumpkin seeds are an important source of antioxidants, magnesium, zinc and fatty acids, which together contribute to the proper functioning of the cardiovascular system.
Furthermore, pumpkin seeds help regulate blood pressure and keep cholesterol within normal limits.
Encouraging proper liver function
With an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect, pumpkin seeds protect the liver and remove toxins from the body.
Improving sleep quality and reducing the symptoms of depression
Pumpkin seeds reduce stress and improve sleep quality due to their rich content of tryptophan, an essential amino acid that turns into serotonin once it gets into the body. In turn, serotonin is converted to melatonin, the “sleep hormone”.
The tryptophan can not be synthesized by the body, so it should be introduced through nutrition, and pumpkin seeds are a great choice.
How to introduce pumpkin seeds into our nutrition?
In order to keep their amazing benefits, pumpkin seeds should be eaten raw, as such or mixed with other ingredients. Add them to salads or prepare a delicious homemade granola using them.
For granola, you need a mix of raw nuts, pumpkin seeds, dehydrated fruits (apricots, apricots or grapes), a sliced banana and maple syrup.
Mix the nuts and seeds in a bowl of dehydrated fruits and maple syrup, then add the banana slices. Depending on your preference or diet, you can add milk (coconut or almonds) or yogurt. This will make for a delicious and energizing breakfast!
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