What are Pumpkin seeds?

Pumpkin seeds are typically flat and oval seeds that are edible. They come from a pumpkin and have a white outer husk. Once you remove the husk, they are light green.

What are the sources of Pumpkin seeds?

Pumpkin seeds can be sourced from a pumpkin. These are typically an Autumn harvest; however, the seeds are available all year round to buy and eat. They are a brilliant source of protein and unsaturated fats, such as Omega-3 and Omega-6, as well as fatty acids.

How do they assist our bodies?

Pumpkin seeds contain a wide array of nutrients, such as iron, zinc, calcium, Vitamin B2, Vitamin K, phosphorus, manganese, magnesium, copper, beta-carotene and folate. They are also high in fibre, which helps reduce your risk of diabetes, obesity and heart disease.

They are also a good source of antioxidants, which help to fight the damage they free radical cells create. Due to their antioxidant properties, pumpkin seeds help to defence against disease, as well as reduce inflammation.

Pumpkin seeds are rich in magnesium, so may support blood pressure, heart and bone health, as well as blood sugar levels. Pumpkin seeds may also help to improve sleep as they are a great source of tryptophan, zinc and magnesium.

Why should we supplement our nutrition with Pumpkin seeds at age 50 plus?

Some studies have shown that pumpkin seeds may assist in the prevention of certain types of cancer, such as stomach, lung and colon cancer.

One study showed a reduced risk in postmenopausal women of breast cancer. Other studies have shown that supplements which contain pumpkin seeds have helped to slow down the growth of prostate cancer cells. BPH, benign prostatic hyperplasia, is a condition where the prostate gland enlarges, resulting in issues with urination.

Pumpkin seeds may assist with relieving the symptoms of BPH, as well as improving bladder health and an overactive bladder.