Pumpkin seeds, popularly known as pumpkin marrow ( Cucurbita maximus), have numerous health benefits helping the brain and heart function, and it is particularly indicated to improve intestinal health and decrease inflammation in the body.
The main health benefits are:
- Helping to relax and increase well-being: by having magnesium and tryptophan which are substances that act at the brain level, helping to combat excessive stress and stimulates memory;
- Helping to lose weight: because it is rich in fiber, which helps to decrease fat intake;
- Contribute to muscle mass formation: because it is a good source of protein;
- Protect the cells of the body: due to the presence of antioxidants;
- Decrease inflammations: by being a good source of omega 3, it has anti-inflammatory action.
- Improve prostate and thyroid health: because they are rich in zinc;
- Combats intestinal worms: because it has anthelmintic action, and can be used even in infants and children;
- Fight anemia: because it is a good source of iron;
- Combat menstrual cramps and PMS: because it contains magnesium, which acts by decreasing muscle contraction and, consequently, menstrual cramps;
- Improve heart and cardiovascular system: because it contains phytol sterols, and in addition, have antihypertensive properties, which help to lower high blood pressure.
How to prepare pumpkin seeds
To prepare the pumpkin seeds for consumption, they should be removed from the pumpkin and then allowed to dry in the sun, taking care to cover with a thin net to avoid flies, but they can also be prepared in the oven without exceed 75 degrees, so as not to burn.
How to consume pumpkin seeds
Dried Seeds - Properly dried pumpkin seeds can be used whole in the salad or soup, for example, or as an appetizer, when a little salt and ginger powder is sprinkled, as is common in Greece. However, one should not add too much salt, especially if you suffer from hypertension. Consuming about 10 to 15 grams of seeds every day for 1 week is good for eliminating intestinal worms.
Shredded Seed - You can add it to cereals, yogurt or fruit juice. To crush, simply beat the dried seeds in a mixer, blender or food processor.
Pumpkin Seed Oil - Can be found in certain supermarkets, or ordered over the internet. It should be used to season the salad or add to the soup after ready because this oil loses its nutrients while being heated, and so should always be used cold. Take 2 tablespoons of pumpkin seed oil per day for 2 weeks to eliminate intestinal worms.
