When I was a kid, I loved to empty out my pumpkin and roast up those seeds. But, I had no idea that I was snacking on a whole lot of health. If you loved roasting your pumpkin seeds as much as I did, let me share some reasons to keep snacking, or not throw them away!
Here are some of the amazing health benefits of pumpkin seeds.
Pumpkin seeds are packed with nutrition. They contain protein, fiber, healthy fats, and valuable nutrients like zinc, magnesium, manganese, copper, antioxidants and phytosterols. So what can pumpkin seeds do for your health? Keep reading...
Anti-Diabetes--A 2011 animal study found that pumpkin seeds may be helpful in preventing diabetic complications, such as high cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Healthy fats, like those found in pumpkin seeds help balance your blood sugar levels. Pumpkin seeds also contain fiber which has been linked to improving insulin regulation which can help those with blood sugar issues and diabetes.
Heart Health--Pumpkin seeds are a good source of omega 3 fatty acids and rich source of unsaturated fat, including alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) that protect your heart and prevent inflammation. Because of their ALA, there has been good evidence to support that eating pumpkin seeds could be beneficial for heart health.
Weight Loss--Pumpkin seeds are high in fiber, and fiber takes longer for your body to digest, giving you a feeling of satiety and leaving you fuller longer. It also helps prevent constipation which can add additional weight. Fiber also helps stabilize blood sugar levels which prevents food cravings and more weight loss over time.
Insomnia--Pumpkin seeds are a good source of magnesium and tryptophan. Magnesium has sleep promoting qualities that help you fall asleep and stay asleep. Tryptophan is an amino acid that can be converted into serotonin, which then is converted into melatonin, the "sleep hormone."
Ways to enjoy pumpkin seeds:
add toasted pumpkin seeds to salads
add them to your smoothie
top off oatmeal
garnish soup
add to trail mix
With the holidays around the corner, I invite you to get an early start to your health goals today! Because nothing is spookier than too much stress, autoimmune disease, chronic illness, low energy, and weight gain. There's no better time to take control of your health than right now! I'm offering 10% off all my nutrition and wellness packages through 10/31/18. Contact me to get started on all your health goals now!
To your health & happiness,
Amy