Pumpkin seeds are a highly nutritious snack that support heart health, blood sugar regulation, better sleep, hormonal balance, and overall nutrient intake, making them a valuable addition to a healthy diet.
Saving pumpkin seeds during Halloween offers numerous health benefits, including improved heart health, better sleep, prostate health, blood sugar regulation, stronger bones, healthier skin and hair, mood enhancement, immune support, and digestive health, making them a nutritious addition to your diet.
Chia and pumpkin seeds are highlighted as two of the most nutritious foods, ranking fifth and sixth on a BBC list of the world's top 100 nutritious foods. Chia seeds are rich in all nine essential amino acids, making them a great plant-based protein source, and they help with weight loss by promoting satiety. Pumpkin seeds are high in iron, manganese, and magnesium, offering anti-inflammatory benefits and improving sleep quality. Both seeds can be easily incorporated into various meals for added nutrition.
Pumpkin seeds are a nutritional powerhouse, rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Consuming pumpkin seeds has been linked to better metabolic health, improved cardiovascular health, reduced cancer risk (particularly breast and colon cancer), and enhanced prostate health. They may also contribute to better liver health, gut health, hair growth, and bladder function. Pumpkin seeds have potential mental health benefits and can be a dietary consideration for individuals at risk or suffering from depression, anxiety, or stress. However, individuals not accustomed to fiber may experience gastrointestinal distress. Roasting pumpkin seeds increases their antioxidant content.
With pumpkin season in full swing, don't let those pumpkin seeds go to waste! All pumpkin seeds are edible, but some varieties are tastier than others. To clean the seeds, rinse them under running water or soak them in a bowl of water to remove the slimy flesh. Dry the seeds thoroughly and then season them with olive oil, spices, and salt. Roast the seeds in the oven until they are golden brown and fragrant. Enjoy the roasted pumpkin seeds as a snack, on top of pasta, salads, soups, or even in granola.
This article provides a recipe for cinnamon-sugar pumpkin seeds, highlighting the nutritional benefits of pepitas. The recipe is quick and easy to make, and the roasted seeds can be enjoyed as a standalone snack or added to various dishes. Pepitas are rich in zinc, magnesium, protein, and fiber, making them a nutritious and delicious addition to your diet.