10 Reasons Why You Should Eat Pumpkin Seeds Daily
Ah, the prized pumpkin. The iconic fleshy fruit that’s fascinatingly not the vegetable that so many believe it to be. Why is that? From a botanist’s perspective, its internal seeds are a key giveaway to its fruitlet nature. We may currently be in the peak of the “pumpkin spice and everything nice” season, but the tiny seeds are the superior part of the pumpkin to laud and adore.
In recent times, pumpkin seeds have begun to tap into current health trends and find their way up on the list of favorite superfoods. These in-demand nibbles offer a year-round appeal for all consumers, not solely for plant-based or nut-free diets. Let’s break down the top ten reasons why you should eat pumpkin seeds daily. Here’s what you should know about these ultra-mighty munchies and their rightful place in the wholesome modern marketplace.
NUTRITIVE VALUE: ABSORB ESSENTIAL VITAMINS AND MINERALS
Pumpkin seeds contain a wide array of nutrients that pack a big punch. Matter-of-fact, this treasure trove of nutrients is scientifically proven to provide consumers with incredible health benefits. The nutritional value of these nutritional powerhouses easily absorbs into the body. You can even soak the seeds a bit before consuming them to ensure your body receives a fuller benefit from these ingested vitamins, minerals, and plant compounds.
A DEEP SLEEP: KICK INSOMNIA TO THE CURB
Sleep is not for the weak—it’s for the wise folks who desire to thrive in life. Getting enough shut-eye at night is essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle and focus on your well-being. Fortunately, pumpkin seeds are a superfood that can help you stop tossing and turning at night.
These small seeds contain tryptophan, an essential amino acid that you can only receive from natural plant-derived sources. Tryptophan is the sole precursor for serotonin, a stabilizing hormone that converts into the sleep hormone melatonin. Melatonin regulates your sleep cycle. Zinc and magnesium are also organically found in pumpkin seeds. Higher levels of these minerals are known to promote healthier sleep patterns.
DIGESTIVE HEALTH: SNEAK IN EXTRA FIBER
Many consumers only eat around half the daily recommendation of fiber. This is quite unfortunate, as fiber positively contributes to a healthy colon and digestive system. Fortunately, pumpkin seeds offer an easy way to pump up your fiber intake. Research suggests a high-fiber diet also can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.
A QUALITY PROTEIN SOURCE: THE COMPLETE PACKAGE
Protein is central to human health today, critically used within the body to repair and restore tissues and build up muscles, cartilage, skin, and bones. Pumpkin seeds are an ideal source of this macronutrient, with quality levels to take advantage of. This plant-based protein is a solid supplementary option for daily diets, especially for those who avoid meat or animal-based sources.
ANTIOXIDANT INPUT: REDUCE INFLAMMATION
Antioxidants are known to minimize ongoing inflammation within the body and provide protection against damaging free radicals. Pumpkin seeds contain a steady presence of vitamin E, vitamin K, and B vitamins with high anti-inflammatory properties. Reducing the level of inflammation within your body can potentially help prevent chronic illnesses and boost metabolism for healthy weight loss.
MAGNESIUM LEVELS: SUPPORT BODY FUNCTIONS
Magnesium is responsible for hundreds of chemical reactions within the human body. The truth is, many people lack enough magnesium in their diets for proper functioning. The level of magnesium within pumpkin seeds is a good reason to eat these minuscule nibbles every day. These handy sprouts contain around fifty percent of one’s daily magnesium requirements.
Control Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is notorious for being a silent killer without any warning signs. Ergo, proper blood pressure control has immense benefits for human health. Magnesium is an imperative mineral for blood pressure regulation, especially for those with chronic conditions. Consuming adequate levels of magnesium can help relax blood vessels through the increased production of nitric oxide.
Maintain Strong Bones
Nobody desires a heightened risk for fractures, breaks, or weak and brittle bones. As a mineral, magnesium is pivotal for growing, developing, and strengthening healthy bones. People who consume ample amounts of magnesium in their diets tend to have increased bone density.
IMMUNITY BOOST: KEEP ILLNESS AT BAY
The need for a good immune system has been at an all-time high lately. A weakened immune system puts you at a higher risk for catching seasonal illnesses or spreadable viruses. Did you know that an ounce of these seeds can provide around 10% of your daily recommended iron intake? Not to mention the additional vitamin C and zinc gains you’ll get.
BEAUTY BENEFITS: NOURISH YOUR SKIN AND HAIR
Do you desire more silky and shiny hair and soft and youthful skin? Pumpkin seeds can be a fruitful part of your solution due to their zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, and vitamin C. Their bountiful beauty benefits are another of the top ten reasons why you should eat pumpkin seeds daily. Skin and hair renewal awaits you.
SIMPLE VERSATILITY: CREATE DYNAMIC DISHES
Pumpkin seeds are wondrously easy to incorporate into your diet. This versatility is another major reasoning for consuming them at some time during your daily schedule. Superior by themselves, you can still add these allergen-free munchies to sweet, spicy, or savory dishes. Sprinkle them onto salads, soups, cereals, or yogurt parfaits. Use them in baking for cookies, breads, cakes, or muffins. Grind them up for smoothies, pesto, or seed butter. The possibilities are truly endless.
THE DELICIOUS TASTE: SENSATIONAL SNACKING
Regardless of whether you’re counting calories or simply desire a more wholesome snack, you can’t go wrong with pumpkin seeds to feel good about your food intake. Their unique and delectable flavor is merely a bonus to all the above perks the tiny superfoods supply. Just don’t eat too many at once. Moderation is key to receiving optimal health benefits and avoiding a stomachache.
Support Your Health: Purchase a Pack of Pepitas
Certain types of shell-free pumpkin seeds come from oilseed pumpkins. These seeds are popularly known as pepitas. Pepitas–of a distinctive green, not white color—can be found on supermarket shelves around town. But why not purchase a fresh pack online, where quality and satisfaction are a guarantee?
You can shop Jaybee’s Nuts to buy pepitas roasted to utter perfection. Our valued pepitas come in a roasted and unsalted variety to do with what you please. For snacking, cooking, baking, and more, you’ll love their uniquely sweet and salty flavor. Order your own stash in a bag or jar from Jaybee’s today.