The Health Benefits Of Pumpkin Seeds

We sure love our pumpkin seeds over here at Nutsack Nuts. So much so that we include them in three of our post popular Nutsacks. More on that later, but first, did you know that pumpkins are actually native to the Americas and were “discovered” by the Spanish and Portuguese explorers of the 15th century?

It's true, and like many people today, these explorers were unaware of the health benefits of pumpkin seeds and generally threw them away. Whaaat?!?!

Crazy right? But listen up, pumpkin seeds have many uses and are an excellent natural source of minerals like manganese, magnesium, potassium and phosphorus. They also contain iron, zinc, tryptophan, Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins.

Here are some good-to-know facts:

Magnesium - Pumpkin seeds are rich in magnesium which promotes a healthy heart, improves bone and tooth formation and helps manage blood pressure. Anyone who suffers from high blood pressure will find that adding these seeds to their diet and enjoying a diet rich in magnesium will help lower their blood pressure.

Manganese - Pumpkin seeds are a natural source of the little known mineral manganese which is essential for proper nerve and brain function and also helps regulate blood sugar. Manganese deficiency has also been linked to erectile dysfunction. Manganese and phosphorus (both found in pumpkin seeds) are directly linked to sex drive and male performance.

Zinc - Pumpkin seeds are also rich in zinc which supports a healthy immune system. Zinc has also been shown to improve sleep and improve mood. It is also very effective in regulating insulin, making it the perfect choice for anyone suffering from Type 2 diabetes. Zinc also supports healthy bone density levels and may reduce your risk for osteoporosis.

Potassium - Pumpkin seeds are rich in potassium which is essential for blood pressure control. Sodium and potassium work together to make your heart beat and play a key role in skeletal and smooth muscle contraction.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids - Pumpkin seeds are also filled with Omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce inflammation, helping those who suffer from inflammatory diseases, such as arthritis including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The Omega-3 fatty acids found in pumpkin seeds when combined with their carotenoids have been found to reduce the risk of BPH.

Dietary Fiber - Not only are pumpkin seeds a good source of protein, they are also high in fiber. Fiber is key to digestive health, keeping your bowels regular, preventing constipation and eliminating toxic buildup. Getting enough fiber is also essential for helping to reduce cholesterol and to normalize your blood pressure.

As you can see, pumpkin seeds supply a variety of health benefits, including promoting prostate health, protecting your bones, reducing symptoms of arthritis, and lowering your cholesterol and blood pressure. Pumpkin seeds also make great snacks and, unlike chips, these delicious little seeds are healthy for the whole family.

So are you ready to add pumpkin seeds to your daily diet?

Check out these three healthy and delicious mixes:

Naked Mix contains freshly roasted Cashews, Pecans, Almonds, Pumpkin Seeds and Sea Salt. Simply delicious. Learn more...

Metro Mix is loaded with Cashews, Pecans, Almonds and Pumpkin Seeds that have been perfectly roasted in Coconut Oil and seasoned with Rosemary, Oregano, Smoked Paprika and Sea Salt. Learn more...

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