Pumpkin seed: Expert advice on the benefits, downsides, and more
Pumpkin seed image© Provided by Getty Images
Perspective from Iyanuoluwa Oyetunji
Benefits
- Pumpkin seeds contains polyunsaturated fatty acids such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, sterols and phytosterols which all help to maintain a healthy heart and prevent cardiovascular diseases.
- Pumpkin seeds may help to maintain bone health, which is made possible by its content of magnesium. Magnesium is very important in bone formation.
Possible Side Effects
- Pumpkin seeds contain a noticeable level of fiber. Too much fiber may cause bloating, or flatulence.
- Pumpkin seed are rich in fiber, so they increase the feeling of satiety, causing a decrease in food consumption during the day and favoring weight loss. They are also an excellent source of protein that can be included in the diet when the goal is to increase muscle mass.
- The fiber and magnesium levels in pumpkin seeds are very important for the body, as they manage to keep sugar levels regulated in people with diabetes. Its daily consumption is also recommended in cases where there is insulin resistance.
- Pumpkin seeds are rich in a different mixture of antioxidants, which are hardly found in other foods, these antioxidants offer greater protection to the body's cells, decreasing the chances of some types of cancer, such as stomach, breast and prostate cancer. In addition to being rich in vitamin E, it acts as a dewormed and is effective in reducing bad cholesterol.
Possible Side Effects
- If consumed in excess or inappropriately, pumpkin seed cease to be an ally and become a problem for your health. Among the side effects are stomach pain and loss of nutrients. They are not recommended for pregnant and lactating women and people with hypoglycemia.
- The consumption must be made from the seeds taken directly from the pumpkin. There are industrialized versions of the seed that can contain high levels of sodium and end up offering health hazards such as increased blood pressure and fluid retention.
Reference: Iyanuoluwa Oyetunji, Master of Science in Medicine, specialization in Human Nutrition and Julia Rocha, Bachelor in Nutrition