The health benefits of pumpkin seeds are numerous. They are loaded with healthy nutrients and vitamins and are beneficial for men’s health as well. Pumpkin seeds contain zinc, iron, magnesium, copper, phosphorus, potassium, manganese, and fiber. Some of these nutrients and vitamins are good for our bodies and help us maintain our health. These nutrients play a big role in the following ways:
Boosting Heart Health
The zinc in pumpkin seed contains a compound that is proven to strengthen the function of arteries and improve cardiovascular health. This is because the compound reduces the levels of “bad cholesterol”. Lowering bad cholesterol levels improves the function of the coronary artery and minimizes the buildup of plaque in it. This prevents heart attack. Pumpkin seeds can also reduce high blood pressure and their consumption can lower cholesterol in people with hypertension.
Regulating Blood Sugar
High levels of glucose in the bloodstream can cause many problems. For instance, diabetics need to eat a lot of nuts and seeds in order to control their blood sugar levels. Other benefits of eating these include preventing cancer, reducing weight, and improving the immune system. The insoluble fiber found in nuts and seeds helps lower cholesterol levels and this is why you hear so much about the benefits of insoluble fiber. Insoluble fiber is also important in keeping blood glucose from being converted into fats.
Improving Sperm Quality
If you are wondering what are the health benefits of this superfood, one of them is that it contains a lot of protein, which is necessary for the production of sperm. Pumpkin seeds contain about 30 percent protein. Also, magnesium, zinc, iron, phosphorus, and potassium all contribute to the production of healthy sperm.
Protects Against Heart Disease
Oatmeal is full of soluble fiber, which is one of the best antioxidants. The insoluble fiber in pumpkin seeds, beta-glucan, helps prevent the oxidation of bad cholesterol and increases the protection of cells against free radicals. Beta-glucan also prevents LDL from oxidizing and turning into plaque.
Improves Sperm Quality
If you are looking for a sperm enhancer, look no further. Pumpkin seeds contain an essential amino acid called L-Arginine. It helps improve sperm quality. Also, they contain magnesium, which is very essential for sperm production. Besides improving sperm, magnesium also prevents the formation of blood clots that can injure nerves and increase the risk of heart attack or stroke.
Improves Brain Memory
High levels of the antioxidant vitamins A, C, E, and beta-carotene are associated with better brain function. But, the best way to improve your brain function is through the proper consumption of antioxidants. This is where pumpkin seeds come into play. Taking antioxidant-rich foods like these can help improve brain function by providing the necessary zinc to prevent damage caused by free radicals. Moreover, vitamin C improves zinc absorption.
Helps You Maintain Healthy Sleeping Posture
If you are suffering from insomnia, you should consider taking high-quality seeds as a dietary supplement. They are an excellent source of magnesium, which has been shown to promote sleep and reduce stress levels. In addition, taking magnesium supplements can help reduce depression and fatigue, which can further increase the benefits of this seed by supplying the body with needed energy. And, the magnesium levels in your system will be higher if you take supplemental magnesium.
Reduces Risk of Diabetes
High levels of insulin are associated with an increased risk of diabetes. Pumpkin seeds contain lipase, an enzyme that helps lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. They also reduce cholesterol levels, which are known to contribute to blood sugar levels. Thus, a daily serving of pumpkin seeds can help reduce your risk of developing diabetes. However, research suggests that diabetics should first make changes to their diet and exercise before adding seeds to their diets.
Help Lower Blood Sugar Levels
Magnesium is known to be an insulin regulator, so it can help lower blood sugar levels when eaten in its natural state. However, studies suggest that diabetic patients should consume policosanol, another derivative of magnesium in order to reduce their blood sugar levels without interfering with the insulin regulation process. This derivative is often referred to as “sugar scrub” and may work even better than magnesium in high quantities.
Lowering Cholesterol and Weight
Pumpkin seeds are also beneficial because they contain unsaturated fats that are good for lowering cholesterol levels. Unsaturated fats are believed to improve heart health, and research indicates that unsaturated fats found in nuts, seeds, and legumes like sunflower seeds, soybeans, corn, and peanuts are helpful in preventing heart disease, cancer, and other health problems. For those who need to lose weight, consuming ten grams of fiber from seeds each day can help you lose one to two pounds per week. Plus, unsaturated fats are converted into energy and carried with the cells. Therefore, carrying around ten grams of fiber from seeds every day can prevent colon problems and weight gain.