We can talk for a long time about the medicinal properties of pumpkin seeds: they contain over 50 substances vital for the human body. However, if misused, they can be useless and even harmful to health.
Vitamins and minerals found in pumpkin seeds
- vitamins of group B (B1, B2, B5, B6, B9);
- vitamin E;
- vitamin PP;
- vitamin C;
- potassium;
- zinc;
- calcium;
- selenium;
- magnesium;
- copper;
- sodium;
- manganese;
- iron;
- phosphorus.
As well as saturated fatty acids, mono- and disaccharides, dietary fiber, etc. necessary for the human body.
During heat treatment, most of the nutrients are destroyed, so roasting pumpkin seeds is highly undesirable.
About the beneficial properties of pumpkin seeds
Pumpkin seeds are widely used as an effective folk remedy for worms and chronic constipation. Due to the high content of vitamin E, pumpkin seeds stimulate the functions of the sex glands, slow down aging and have a beneficial effect on skin condition. Gruel made from pumpkin seeds is a wonderful remedy for treating burns and wounds. It is very useful for men to regularly eat pumpkin seeds to prevent prostatitis, increase potency and enhance sexual sensations.
Pumpkin seeds contain the amino acid arginine, which is used to gain muscle mass in sports nutrition.
The benefits of pumpkin seeds are also undeniable for people suffering from hypertension and diabetes mellitus: they have the ability to stabilize blood pressure and lower blood sugar levels. In addition, pumpkin seeds are a good diuretic and choleretic agent. Rich in zinc, they boost memory, improve brain function and reduce fatigue.
Possessing anti-nausea and antiemetic effects, pumpkin seeds are indicated for people suffering from seasickness and for pregnant women with toxicosis.
The ability of pumpkin seeds to remove harmful cadmium and lead from the human body has been scientifically proven.
About the dangers of pumpkin seeds
Like any even the most useful product, pumpkin seeds can be harmful for certain diseases. Eating large amounts of fried and salted pumpkin seeds causes salt to build up in the joints, which limits their mobility.
Excessive consumption of pumpkin seeds is contraindicated in obesity and overweight: they contain a large amount (up to 46%!) Of fat. It is also recommended to limit their use for various diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and increased acidity of gastric juice. However, you should not give up pumpkin seeds altogether: for medicinal purposes, it is enough to eat 10 grams of this product per day.
Eating large amounts of roasted and salted pumpkin seeds causes salt to accumulate in the joints, limiting their mobility.
In order to avoid damage to the tooth enamel, it is better to peel the seeds from the husk with your hands, and not gnaw them.
