From weight loss to hair growth, 5 things that make pumpkin seeds the perfect healthy snack

In the last few years, pumpkin seeds or pepitas have become increasingly popular as a health food. These edible seeds that are flat and oval in shape are generally roasted and then consumed. And here’s the best part: you can enjoy its crunchy flavour, without worrying about piling on the calories.

Dear friends, pumpkin seeds pack a punch, thanks to their high nutritional value. They contain everything from magnesium and copper to protein and zinc. What’s more, they are also a rich source of essential fatty acids that help maintain healthy blood vessels, and lowers bad cholesterol in the body.

So without further ado, let’s jump right to the various benefits of pumpkin seeds that most of us are unaware of:

1. Helps regulate blood sugar

Research suggests that consuming pumpkin seeds regularly with linseed could help people prevent complications associated with diabetes, including high cholesterol and blood sugar levels. That’s because these seeds have hypoglycemic properties, which brings down the levels of sugar in your body. That helps your blood sugar levels stay in control!

2. Helps your heart

This might sound surprising, but it is absolutely true! Pumpkin seeds are rich in healthy fats, fibres, and various antioxidants that make it the perfect food for your heart. Besides, pumpkin seeds contain monounsaturated fatty acids and magnesium that helps to reduce blood pressure levels. Now that’s great news, isn’t it?

3. Promotes sound sleep

Not many are aware that pumpkin seeds contain serotonin, a neurochemical, which is also called nature’s sleeping pill. These seeds are also high in tryptophan, an amino acid that then converts serotonin in the body, so that you enjoy sound sleep. Just have a few seeds before you hit the sack, and you’ll feel refreshed the next morning!

4. Helps in hair growth

We aren’t surprised anymore, because pumpkin seeds are a powerhouse of nutrients! They contain cucurbitacin, an amino acid that is beneficial for hair growth. Apart from this, pumpkin seeds also contain vitamin C, and that we already know works amazingly well for your tresses. Consume a handful of these seeds every day and see a difference in no time.

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5. Accelerates weight loss

It is generally in the evenings that we tend to go astray and give up on our healthy eating habits. But fret not, pumpkin seeds will be your saviour. If you are looking to lose weight, then make sure to consume these seeds to stay satiated for a longer period of time. What’s more, they are loaded with fibre, so won’t binge on anything unhealthy.

So ladies, next time you go to the supermarket, don’t forget to get your fill of pumpkin seeds!