Why Pumpkins aren’t just for Halloween…

The health benefits of pumpkin seeds might just make you think twice about throwing them away after carving your pumpkin this year.

Pumpkin picking, pumpkin carving, pumpkin spiced lattes and Halloween spirit; but that’s not all pumpkins have to offer.

Here are the 5 benefits of pumpkin seeds in your diet…

1. Healthier cholesterol and heart.

High cholesterol levels may increase your risk of health issues such as heart disease and strokes.

Pumpkin seeds are a great source of un-saturated fats; particularly alpha-linoleic acid. This  can help to reduce cholesterol levels and high blood pressure which is another factor of heart disease.

Some of the best antioxidants can be sourced from Pumpkin seeds, as well as magnesium and zinc, which all support a healthy heart.

2. A better night’s sleep.

Magnesium has been proven to improve sleep quality, and pumpkin seeds are one of the best plant sources of this mineral.

Magnesium activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which causes feelings of relaxation. It also regulates melatonin, the hormone which controls your sleep-wake cycle.

The fruit’s seeds also contain an amino acid that the body uses to create serotonin, the bodies ‘feel good’ hormone. The body can then convert serotonin into sleep-encouraging melatonin.

3. Reduced risk of disease.

Pumpkin seeds contain vitamin E, an antioxidant which helps the body to reduce inflammation and protect our cells from disease-causing free radicals. This can lower your risk of chronic disease, including some types of cancer.

Pumpkin seeds are high in lianas, which reduce the bodies production of oestrogen, and this has been linked to breast cancer prevention.

Studies show that diets rich in pumpkin seeds are also associated with a decreased risk of stomach, lung, prostate and colon cancers.

4. Improved blood sugar control.

Pumpkin seeds can reduce blood sugar, which can be especially helpful for those with type-2 diabetes. This may be due to pumpkin seeds’ high magnesium content because magnesium plays a role in the bodies ability to secrete insulin.

Magnesium can also help to reduce the risk of developing diabetes in the first place.

5. Healthy immune system.

The rich nutrient content of pumpkin seeds can help to support the health of your immune system.

They are high in vitamin E, which helps cells fight off infection and protect cells from radical damage. They’re also packed with zinc, a mineral which helps the immune system ward off bacteria and viruses. Zinc can also help to keep inflammation under control.

That’s not all… Pumpkin seeds also have natural antimicrobial, anti-fungi, and antiviral properties which may help your body’s natural defences. This is especially important in the world we are currently living in!

Fuel Cafe is currently serving delicious pumpkin soup, email Fuel@instinct78.co.uk to reserve yours.

If you need help with diet and nutrition, do not hesitate to contact our Nutritionist, Saskia Knight. Saskia can be contacted by email Saskia@instinct78.co.uk.