Why You Should Snack on Pumpkin Seeds

When people talk about "great things come in small packages" - they might be talking about pumpkin seeds. Also known as pepitas, these little kernels are one of the "superfoods".

Pumpkin seeds are rich in minerals and antioxidants that reduce inflammation in the body. Antioxidants protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals, hence preventing inflammation. They're also essential for overall health - bolstering the immune system and enhancing skin health.

Zinc is a mineral found in particularly high concentrations in pumpkin seeds. It's crucial for skin health, strengthening hair and nail roots, wound healing, and forming connective tissues like collagen. Every cell in the body requires zinc to function properly. The skin is the body's largest organ and needs a constant supply of zinc to maintain optimal performance. Zinc deficiency can lead to a wide array of negative bodily effects. The high zinc content strengthens the immune system.

The fat in pumpkin seeds is unsaturated, healthy, and rich in essential fatty acids - Omega 3 - that help balance the body's systems.

Pumpkin seeds also contain a complete and high-quality protein that is biologically available to the body, notably an essential amino acid - lysine - important for development, proper growth, and also for enhancing memory.

The dietary fiber in pumpkin seeds makes them beneficial for proper and optimal digestion. They improve the functional performance of the urinary tract in people suffering from an overactive bladder. For children (and not just them) suffering from intestinal worms, pumpkin seeds provide a good solution, addressing the issue without harmful chemicals and drugs. Pumpkin seeds contain substances that prevent worms from adhering to the intestinal wall, facilitating their removal from the body, especially for individuals who turn to medications repeatedly without resolving the problem.

The best way to reap the multiple benefits of these seeds is by eating them in their raw form. Roasting oxidizes the fats in the seeds, destroys them with heat, and potentially turns them into harmful substances. Therefore, it's recommended to consume seeds as additions to salads, in shakes, or any other way in their natural form.

It's a good idea to consume two tablespoons of pumpkin seeds on an empty stomach each day. To cleanse the stomach and intestines, consider grinding them or using natural pumpkin seed butter. Consistency is key for successful treatment.

Zohara Sharvit is a naturopath N.D and diagnosis expert through iridology, with many years of experience in treatment, counseling, and conducting workshops. To book a free workshop, call 073-2221290