The Power of Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds or pepitas (in Spanish) are a great addition to your diet due to the many health benefits. It is common to get the seeds from fresh pumpkins, however, you can also buy shell-free seeds at the store and in raw form. You can eat raw as a topping on many recipes or you can sprout (soak overnight in water, rinse, then let dry) and toast (in oven at lowest temperature setting) for 10-15 minutes and enjoy as a snack.
What are the benefits of pumpkin seeds?
Pumpkin seeds have many nutrients to include:
Vitamin K
Magnesium
Potassium
Iron
Zinc
Copper
High in antioxidants such as carotenoids and Vitamin E, which are necessary for reducing free radicals from the body, and therefore, reducing inflammation.
Great for health health as antioxidants, minerals, and fatty acids help protect the heart and have been found to help reduce blood pressure and high LDL cholesterol by increasing HDL “the good cholesterol” and creating more balance.
Excellent source of fiber, which promotes a healthy digestive tract. Fiber is necessary for assisting the body in eliminating waste.
Have been known to help with removing parasites from the body as some of the chemicals contained in pumpkin seeds can “paralyze” parasites and when followed with an elimination protocol (herbs), can help cleanse the intestinal tract.
When purchasing pumpkin seeds, it is better to select organic seeds as these are free of chemicals or pesticides and can provide more effective results.