Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, antioxidants, and fiber. This combination hasbenefits for both the heart and liver. The fiber inpumpkin seeds helps lower the total amount of cholesterol in the blood and decrease the risk of heart disease.
What are the health benefits of pumpkin seeds.
Last updated Tue 24 July 2018 By Megan Ware RDN LD Reviewed by Natalie Olsen, RD, LD, ACSM EP-C
Benefits Nutrition Dietary tips Risks
Pumpkin seeds are an edible seed typically roasted for consumption. They are a common ingredient in Mexican cuisine and are often eaten as a healthful snack.
They are sometimes referred to as pepitas, Spanish for “little seed of squash.”
This feature is part of a collection of articles on the health benefits of popular foods.
It looks at the possible health benefits of pumpkin seeds, the nutritional content, how to use pumpkin seeds in the diet, and possible health risks.
Benefits
Pumpkin seeds
Pumpkin seeds are rich in nutrients and may have many health benefits.
Pumpkin seeds are a good source of healthful oils, magnesium, and other nutrients that enhance the health of the heart, bones, and other functions.
Seeds, in general, are considered excellent sources of potassium, magnesium, and calcium.
Plant seeds are also a good source of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and antioxidants.
The fatty acids in pumpkin seeds contain a range of beneficial nutrients, such as sterols, squalene, and tocopherols. Researchers have described the fatty acid profile of seeds, grains, and legumes as “favorable.”
