Pumpkin Seeds

[ElaineM]

Hi Tanya,
What are the nutritional benefits of pumpkin seeds, especially in relation to breast cancer?

[TanyaRD]

Pumpkins seeds contain lignans, a phytochemical, which may be protective in cancer prevention (possibly breast cancer too). The beneficial properties are similar to that of flax seed but on a smaller scale. Pumpkin seeds are a source of polyunsaturated fats which are kind of a neutral fat. They may help lower cholesterol but may slightly lower good cholesterol which is not ideal. Overall, I think they, along with a variety of other nuts/seeds, are a great addition to the diet. They are also an excellent source of protein.

[ElaineM]

Thanks Tanya,
I add a few pumpkin seeds to my home made trail mix or I throw a few in my mixed grain cold cereal along with a few walnuts or almonds. Good to know they are pretty healthy.

[Gavin121]

Pumpkin seeds are one of nature's almost perfect foods. They are a natural source of beneficial constituents such as carbohydrates, amino acids and unsaturated fatty acids. They contain most of the B vitamins, along with C, D, E, and K. They also have the minerals calcium, potassium, and phosphorous. Pumpkin seeds have mainly been used to treat prostate and bladder problems, but they have also been known to help with depression and learning disabilities. Native American tribes were among the first people to notice the beneficial aspects of pumpkin seeds. They referred to them as cucurbita and used them to treat kidney problems and to eliminate parasites from the intestines.
Because pumpkin seeds turned up so frequently in folk medicines, scientists began to conduct research on the oil extracted from them. One study showed pumpkin seed oil kept hormones from inflicting damage on the cells of the prostate, which helps to reduce cancer development. Another study revealed that the seeds contain a significant amount of L-tryptophan, which is beneficial in battling depression (although it is believed the seeds don’t have enough to treat major depression, they can be used as a preventive measure). Other studies showed pumpkin seeds can improve bladder and urethra function. And they are thought to help stop the formation of kidney stones, even though the ingredient responsible is unknown. Pumpkin seeds have also been used to treat learning disorders and are generally recommended in some countries as a ‘brain food.’ Other studies have shown they prevent hardening of the arteries and help regulate cholesterol levels.