Remember that iron is essential for health and is involved in a multitude of functions in the human body, in addition to transporting oxygen through the body.
However, iron from plant sources is not as well absorbed as iron from animal sources. In this sense, it is recommended that vegetarians consume twice as much iron in order to ensure that they do not suffer from deficiencies that may in particular cause fatigue and weakness.
While more scientific studies are to be conducted on the subject to understand all of its mechanisms, pumpkin seeds are believed to help relieve symptoms of irritable bladder and urination disorders associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). .
Pumpkin seeds also provide a healthy dose of fiber . A 28g serving of pumpkin seeds provides 5g of fiber, or 20% of the recommended daily intake.
In addition to calming hunger, fiber promotes healthy digestion and helps regulate bowel function.
The phytosterols in pumpkin seeds help lower ” bad” cholesterol levels . Phytosterol is the plant equivalent of cholesterol. However, rather than blocking the arteries, phytosterol rather helps to clean them, recalls WebMD.
8. Pumpkin seeds are a natural anti-inflammatory
Source of antioxidants, pumpkin seeds have an anti-inflammatory effect and thus help defend the body against damage caused by excess free radicals .
If free radicals oxidize DNA (the body’s genetic code) in a cell’s nucleus, a cell mutation can occur, which can start cancer. Oxidation of cholesterol in the blood can lead to the formation of fatty deposits in the arteries, which can lead to heart disease or stroke.
Excess free radicals are also involved in cataracts, immune deficiencies, arthritis and premature cell aging; their role in these diseases is the subject of intensive research.
9. Pumpkin seed oil to counter the effects of menopause
Researchers have studied the impact of pumpkin seed oil in better combating symptoms of menopause , including hot flashes and headaches.
While further studies need to be done, pumpkin seed oil has been shown to be effective in alleviating these symptoms in the subjects of this research.
10. Pumpkin seeds help healthy skin, hair and nails
The pumpkin seeds contain essential fatty acids, zinc, vitamin A and vitamin E . These nutrients help maintain glowing skin , strong, healthy hair and nails .
While more research is needed to confirm these benefits, a study with 76 participants also looked at the benefits of pumpkin seed oil in helping hair regrowth in men with alopecia.
In subjects who consumed 400mg of pumpkin seed oil for 24 weeks, regrowth was 40% greater than participants who took a placebo.
11. Pumpkin seeds help eliminate kidney stones (kidney stone)
Pumpkin seeds are also said to prevent kidney stones from forming . To better counter kidney stones, it is also recommended to drink plenty of water, limit sodium intake, and consume no more than 2g of vitamin C on a daily basis.
The kidneys are designed to remove particles of salts and minerals that end up in the ureter, a long, narrow duct leading to the bladder; they will then be expelled in the urine.
Problems arise when a chemical imbalance or other deficient process promotes the agglutination of particles, which turn into crystals and then into a kidney stone.
12. Pumpkin seeds are rich in vegetable protein
This food is also a good source of vegetable protein . A 28g serving of pumpkin seeds provides 5g of protein, or 10% of the recommended daily allowance.
The proteins include the ability to develop and maintain the muscles, in addition to help regulate and control hunger cravings.
Vegetarians and vegans, however, should make sure that their diet meets all their amino acid needs by combining different sources of plant protein (legumes and grain products, for example).
13. Pumpkin seeds are a great substitute for peanuts
In 10 years, cases of peanut allergy have doubled, forcing several schools to ban this food. Pumpkin seed butter is a good alternative.
At lunch or as a side dish for a snack, it will provide children with some of the essential fatty acids and proteins they need.
14. benefits of pumpkin seeds on your hormonal health
Pumpkin seeds may help women with hormonal imbalance due to the phytoestrogens they contain. However, further scientific studies need to be carried out to this effect.
The Extenso Nutrition Reference Center reminds us that phytoestrogens are compounds of plant origin which, when consumed in sufficient quantities, can act on your body in a manner similar to estrogen.
In addition to regulating the menstrual cycle, I pregnancy, and breastfeeding, estrogen helps prevent demineralization of your bones and keeps your blood vessels healthy.
15. Pumpkin seeds are a good source of potassium
Finally, pumpkin seeds provide a good source of potassium. A 28g serving provides 260mg of potassium , or nearly 7% of the recommended daily allowance.
Potassium is present in the form of a solution in the body and almost all of it is concentrated inside cells.
Like chlorine and sodium, it is an electrolyte, a substance that charges positively or negatively when dissolved.
The body needs a balance between potassium, chlorine and sodium to perform a multitude of essential functions.
We hope the article on the 15 powerful health benefits of pumpkin seeds has been of help.