Health Benefits of Pumpkin Seeds
Happy Fall Everyone! 
Pumpkin seeds, aka pepitas, are flat, dark green seeds. Some are encased in a yellow-white husk, although some varieties of pumpkins produce seeds without shells. Pumpkin seeds are a great snack whether you enjoy them raw or roasted. They’re a natural anti-inflammatory snack that contain phytosterols which help lower LDL cholesterol. Pumpkins are also rich in zeaxanthin and lutein, which help combat free radicals in the lens of the eyes. And guys, pumpkin seeds are rich in zinc (beneficial for the prostate and healthy testosterone levels).
Pumpkins are rich in beta carotene an antioxidant that encourages repair of free radical damage to cells. The seeds contain vitamin K, minerals including calcium, manganese, iron and phosphorus. They’re a perfect snack when you're feeling stressed out since pumpkin seeds are high in zinc and magnesium (two minerals that become depleted when stressed). Just 1/2 cup of pumpkin seeds provide 92 percent of your daily value of magnesium!
Pumpkin seeds are a healthy source of fiber and fat. Pumpkin seeds contain fatty acids that may help get rid of parasites, cleanse blood vessels and stimulate kidney activity. They’re an excellent source of amino acids arginine, leucine, aspartic acid and glutamic acid that together with other amino acids are used to make muscle protein myosin (an essential component for energy and strong muscular contractions).
Opt for certified, organic, raw pumpkin seeds or real pumpkin seeds from an organic pumpkin. Never purchase nuts or seeds from the bulk bin containers due to heavy mold infestation and rancidity.
If you have digestive troubles or are lectin-resistant, soaking the pumpkin seeds (or any other nut) for 12-15 hours is helpful in reducing the phytic acid.
Enjoy pumpkin seeds by themselves, in salads, your favorite recipe or roast them at a low temperature (170° - 180°) for approximately 15 minutes with coconut oil, unprocessed sea salt, cayenne pepper and garlic or your favorite spices such as cinnamon, ginger and pumpkin pie spice.
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