Introduction
Pumpkin seeds are a delicious and nutritious snack that can be enjoyed year-round. Not only are they packed with essential vitamins and minerals, but they also contain healthy fats and fiber. But did you know that eating pumpkin seeds can have some surprising side effects? Dietitians have identified eight unexpected benefits of eating pumpkin seeds that you may not have known about. From improved digestion to better sleep, these side effects can help you lead a healthier lifestyle. Read on to learn more about the surprising side effects of eating pumpkin seeds.
8 Surprising Side Effects of Eating Pumpkin Seeds, Say Dietitians
Pumpkin seeds are a popular snack, but did you know they can have some surprising side effects? Dietitians say that eating pumpkin seeds can have a range of positive and negative effects on your health. Here are 8 surprising side effects of eating pumpkin seeds that you should know about.
1. Improved Heart Health
Pumpkin seeds are a great source of magnesium, which is an important mineral for heart health. Eating pumpkin seeds can help reduce your risk of heart disease by lowering your blood pressure and improving your cholesterol levels. Additionally, pumpkin seeds are a good source of fiber, which can help reduce your risk of heart disease as well.
2. Improved Digestive Health
Pumpkin seeds are a good source of fiber, which can help improve your digestive health. Eating pumpkin seeds can help keep your digestive system running smoothly and can help prevent constipation. Additionally, pumpkin seeds are a good source of zinc, which can help improve your immune system and help fight off infections.
3. Improved Bone Health
Pumpkin seeds are a good source of calcium, which is important for bone health. Eating pumpkin seeds can help improve your bone density and can help reduce your risk of osteoporosis. Additionally, pumpkin seeds are a good source of magnesium, which can help improve your bone health as well.
4. Improved Sleep Quality
Pumpkin seeds are a good source of tryptophan, which is an amino acid that can help improve your sleep quality. Eating pumpkin seeds can help you fall asleep faster and can help you stay asleep longer. Additionally, pumpkin seeds are a good source of magnesium, which can help relax your muscles and improve your sleep quality.
5. Reduced Risk of Cancer
Pumpkin seeds are a good source of antioxidants, which can help reduce your risk of cancer. Eating pumpkin seeds can help protect your cells from damage and can help reduce your risk of developing certain types of cancer. Additionally, pumpkin seeds are a good source of zinc, which can help boost your immune system and help fight off cancer cells.
6. Reduced Risk of Diabetes
Pumpkin seeds are a good source of magnesium, which can help reduce your risk of diabetes. Eating pumpkin seeds can help improve your insulin sensitivity and can help reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Additionally, pumpkin seeds are a good source of fiber, which can help regulate your blood sugar levels.
7. Improved Skin Health
Pumpkin seeds are a good source of zinc, which can help improve your skin health. Eating pumpkin seeds can help reduce inflammation and can help reduce your risk of developing certain skin conditions. Additionally, pumpkin seeds are a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect your skin from damage.
8. Improved Mental Health
Pumpkin seeds are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which can help improve your mental health. Eating pumpkin seeds can help reduce stress and can help improve your mood. Additionally, pumpkin seeds are a good source of magnesium, which can help reduce anxiety and improve your overall mental health.
Eating pumpkin seeds can have a range of positive and negative effects on your health. It’s important to talk to your doctor or dietitian before adding pumpkin seeds to your diet to make sure they are right for you. With the right diet and lifestyle changes, you can enjoy the many benefits of eating pumpkin seeds.
When people think of pumpkins, most people think of those orange gourds that are fun for picking and carving during the autumn season. Pumpkins are also great for making delicious and flavorful recipes. However, did you know that the pumpkin can also be used for its seeds?
You’ve heard of eating sunflower seeds, chia seeds, and other various types, but it may be time to add pumpkin seeds to your list if you haven’t already. The dietitians on our Medical Expert Board gave us insight into what would happen if you added them to your diet. Read on to see what the effects of pumpkin seeds are. Then, be sure to check out Surprising Side Effects of Eating Flax Seeds, Says Science.
According to Lauren Manaker, MS, RDN, LDN, CLEC, CPT, author of The First Time Mom’s Pregnancy Cookbook, The 7 Ingredient Healthy Pregnancy Cookbook, and Fueling Male Fertility, pumpkin seeds contain zinc, a nutrient that supports immune health.
“Eating them consistently may help you take in enough of this key mineral and support your immune health,” says Manaker.
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“Pumpkin seeds are high in fiber which can be a good thing, but practicing portion control is important,” says Lisa Young, PhD, RDN, author of Finally Full, Finally Slim, and a nutritionist in private practice.
If you do consume too many pumpkin seeds at once, Dr. Young suggests that it may lead to gas and stomach discomfort.
When warm milk just won’t cut it, try your luck on pumpkin seeds before bedtime.
“Pumpkin seeds are a natural source of tryptophan– an amino acid that supports sleep,” says Manaker.
Therefore, she suggests eating them in the evening, which may help people get some restful shut-eye.
Dr. Young advises that although pumpkin seeds are high in vitamin E and unsaturated fat, too many of them can lead to packing too many calories into your daily diet.
On average, a quarter-cup of dried pumpkin seeds is about 180 calories. If you were to double the serving size, you’d be doubling up the calories, easily getting you to over 300 calories over one snack.
So, as nutritious as these seeds may be, Dr. Young advises that it’s best to practice moderation.
According to Manaker, pumpkin seeds contain lignans— polyphenols that may help reduce breast cancer risk.
In an observational study posted in the Nutrition and Cancer Journal, it was discovered that eating pumpkin seeds was associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Another study posted in the same journal suggested that the lignans in the food may also play an important role in treating this cancer.
“Pumpkin seeds contain important minerals like iron and calcium,” says Dr. Young.
According to the Mayo Clinic, the recommended daily intake of calcium is 1,000 to 1,200 milligrams for men and 1,200 for women if you’re 51 and older. Meanwhile, the recommended daily intake for iron is 10-15 milligrams for adult males and females, and 30 milligrams for pregnant females.
Therefore, if you’re looking for a quick way to get your nutrients, snack on some pumpkin seeds!
Need to feel zen? You can use teas and other herbal methods, but you may want to try something different.
According to Manaker, pumpkin seeds are a source of magnesium. She suggests that magnesium is a mineral that may help promote a feeling of calmness in the brain.
If you’ve ever eaten a pumpkin seed, you know they have a crunchy texture and can have a hardened exterior. They make for a great additional crunch to a dish like salads (instead of croutons) or thrown on top of your pumpkin bisque.
However, their hardness, if not chewed carefully, can lead to some throat damage.
“Be sure to chew pumpkin seeds well,” says Dr. Young. “Pumpkin seeds that are not chewed well may aggravate your esophagus when you swallow.”
Kayla Garritano