The medicinal uses of pumpkin seeds

We all know that pumpkin is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, but few are aware that pumpkin seeds also offer numerous health benefits.

Pumpkin seeds are a common food in our daily lives. Many people enjoy eating them. Modern medicine has researched and discovered that pumpkin seeds are not just a snack but also have significant nutritional value. Generally, consuming pumpkin seeds can help lower blood pressure and are particularly beneficial for male reproductive organs. However, while pumpkin seeds are healthy, one must be aware of certain consumption guidelines.

Nutrition expert Ana Reisdorf states: “Pumpkin seeds are rich in healthy fats, protein, fiber, iron, vitamin E, zinc, manganese, magnesium, and copper. They are an excellent source of minerals in the diet.”

Health Benefits of Pumpkin Seeds

Rich in Antioxidants for Overall Health

Pumpkin seeds are high in antioxidants such as flavonoids and phenolic acid, and contain small amounts of vitamin E and carotenoids.

Antioxidants can reduce inflammation and protect your cells from harmful free radicals. For this reason, consuming antioxidant-rich foods can help protect the body against various diseases.

Blood Pressure Reduction

Pumpkin seeds can lower blood pressure due to their pantothenic acid content, which is beneficial in alleviating myocardial ischemia. Those looking to reduce blood pressure should consume more pumpkin seeds.

Eating 50g of pumpkin seeds daily is very beneficial in preventing prostate diseases in men.

Prostate Protection

Studies have found that consuming 50 grams of pumpkin seeds daily is beneficial in preventing prostate diseases in men. The hormone secretion function of the prostate relies on fatty acids, which are abundant in pumpkin seeds.

Additionally, other active components in pumpkin seeds can effectively treat early-stage prostatitis and also help prevent prostate cancer.

Improved Bladder Function

Some studies suggest that extracts from pumpkin seeds may help improve bladder function.

Depression Treatment

Due to the presence of L-tryptophan, a natural compound found in pumpkin seeds, they can effectively combat depression.

Osteoporosis Prevention

Pumpkin seeds are rich in zinc, making them a natural protector against osteoporosis. A deficiency in zinc increases the risk of osteoporosis.

Natural Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Pumpkin seeds help reduce inflammation without the side effects associated with anti-inflammatory medications.

Pumpkin seeds are rich in phosphorus, which can prevent mineral deposits in the urethra that lead to stones.

Kidney Stone Prevention

Pumpkin seeds are high in phosphorus, which can prevent mineral deposits in the urethra that cause stones and facilitate the rapid excretion of existing stones. Therefore, pumpkin seeds can help prevent kidney stones.

Treatment for Parasitic Infections

They are used in many cultures worldwide as a natural deworming agent against various parasites. Studies have also shown that they are effective against schistosomiasis, a type of parasite that lives in snails.

Abundant Magnesium Source

Half a cup of pumpkin seeds contains up to 92% of the daily recommended intake of magnesium.

Blood Clot Prevention

Pumpkin seeds also play a positive role in preventing thrombosis, lipid increase, and elevated cholesterol levels. These conditions have become high-risk diseases in recent years, placing patients in critical situations.

Kidney Support

Pumpkin seeds are rich in zinc, which is beneficial for increasing sperm count. From the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine, zinc-rich foods help nourish the kidneys and improve male fertility.

Pumpkin seeds are rich in phosphorus and vitamin E, which are excellent for gums and jawbone.

Oral Health Prevention and Treatment

Pumpkin seeds contain two nutrients that are very beneficial for gums and jawbone. First, they are high in phosphorus, with 1159mg per 100g of pumpkin seed kernels, which is beneficial for older adults suffering from jawbone loss. Second, pumpkin seeds are rich in carotenoids and vitamin E, both of which effectively prevent gum recession.

Promotes Natural Sleep and Stress Relief

If you struggle with sleep—ranging from occasional insomnia to chronic sleeplessness—some pumpkin seeds may serve as the perfect bedtime snack. These small seeds are rich in magnesium and contain a bit of tryptophan, an essential compound for those needing better sleep. Magnesium has long been regarded as a natural sleep aid as it promotes relaxation and reduces stress.

Reduced Breast Cancer Risk

Research indicates that lignans—plant compounds that mimic estrogen—found in pumpkin seeds may help prevent or treat breast cancer. A large study involving nearly 3,000 breast cancer patients and over 5,000 women without the disease provided evidence that consuming pumpkin seeds rich in phytoestrogens is associated with a reduced risk of postmenopausal breast cancer.

Heart Health Benefits

The cardiovascular benefits appear to stem from the ability of pumpkin seed oil to enhance the body’s production of nitric oxide—thereby aiding in the dilation of blood vessels and reducing the risk of plaque buildup in your arteries.

Additionally, the high fiber content in pumpkin seeds may help lower cholesterol levels, as studies have shown that individuals with a high fiber intake can significantly reduce their risk of cardiovascular diseases.

The high fiber content in pumpkin seeds may also help reduce cholesterol levels.

Blood Sugar Regulation

A study involving healthy adults found that those who supplemented their meals with 65g of pumpkin seeds had lower blood sugar levels compared to those consuming high-carb meals.

Moreover, the magnesium content in pumpkin seeds provides numerous benefits for diabetic patients.

A large observational study indicated that individuals with a high magnesium intake had a 15% lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared to those with a low magnesium intake over a 28-year period.

Digestive Health

Pumpkin seeds are an excellent source of fiber, beneficial for digestive health and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity.

Pumpkin Seeds Are Good, But You Shouldn’t Eat Too Many

• Consuming too many pumpkin seeds can lead to symptoms of dizziness, especially for individuals with weak stomachs. Eating excessive amounts can also cause bloating.
• Buying too many pumpkin seeds is not advantageous for storage, as they can lose their delicious flavor over time. Moldy pumpkin seeds can contain cancer-causing components, so it’s important to discard any seeds that show signs of mold.
• Lastly, consumers should be cautious when purchasing pumpkin seeds. Avoid buying seeds that are overly fragrant, as they may contain additives that are harmful to health.
• Parents should exercise caution when giving pumpkin seeds to children, particularly those under the age of 2, due to the risk of choking, which can be dangerous and potentially obstruct the airway.

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