Health Benefits of Pumpkin Seeds

When you finish carving that jack-o’-lantern this month, don’t pitch what you pull out of that pumpkin. With some cleaning and care, the pumpkin seeds inside make for a great healthy food filled with vitamins and nutrients. The health benefits of pumpkin seeds alone make it worth your time to set them aside for snacking.

5 Great Health Benefits of Pumpkin Seeds

1. Excellent Source of Vitamins and Nutrients

Balanced nutrition helps your body stay healthy, and pumpkin seeds offer up a wide array of the vitamins and nutrients you need. Pumpkin seeds contain a generous amount of vitamin K, copper, iron, manganese, and zinc.

2. Rich in Protein

Pumpkin seeds are a tasty way to increase your protein intake. You should consume around 1 gram of protein per pound of body weight per day, and high-protein diets are essential if you’re active and looking to build muscle.

3. Heart-Healthy Fats

Not all fats are created equal. In fact, healthy fats like those found in pumpkin seeds can be beneficial for better heart health and improving cholesterol. The healthy fats in pumpkin seeds can also help your body absorb vitamins and nutrients and improve overall immune system health.

4. Great for Dietary Fiber

Increasing your intake of dietary fiber promotes better digestive health and helps lower your risk of heart disease and diabetes. Pumpkin seeds are a good source of fiber as well.

5. May Help You Sleep Better

Pumpkin seeds contain tryptophan, the amino acid that helps induce sleep. By eating enough pumpkin seeds and complementing them with other tryptophan-rich food and supplements, you can enjoy better rest.  

Healthy Lifestyle Choices in Pontiac, IL

The health benefits of pumpkin seeds are clear, making this delicious snack a must this fall. Whether you roast them, add them to salads, or find more creative uses, pumpkin seeds are a healthy food that helps you balance your diet. If you’re looking for ways to improve your wellness, contact Livingston County Chiropractic Center in Pontiac, IL.

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