Helps in the treatment of hyperplasia and prostate cancer
Since the beginning of the 20th century, pumpkin seeds have been used to treat an enlarged or enlarged prostate. According to the expert in medicinal herbs, Douglas Schar, the seed contains components called phytosterols that can help reduce the prostate if ingested in good quantity three times a week. Researchers in Taiwan have found that the oil extracted from the pressing of pumpkin seeds also has a high concentration of zinc, which contributes to male sexual health and can block the evil growth of prostate cells.
According to a study conducted by the Harvard School of Public Health’s Department of Nutrition, diets rich in beta carotene showed a positive effect in treating prostate cancer. Pumpkin is one of the foods with the highest concentration of beta carotene found in nature.
5 – Treat intestinal worms
There is no record of the consumption of pumpkin seeds to treat intestinal parasite infestation in humans and domestic animals, both among American Indians, among native Africans, and even by populations in the interior of Brazil.
Pumpkin seeds contain an amino acid called cucurbitacin, responsible for paralyzing and eliminating worms, especially tapeworms, from the digestive tract.
It is also rich in other vitamins and minerals.
For example, it has a high content of vitamin C (which makes it a great antioxidant), riboflavin, copper, manganese, vitamin B6, thiamine, niacin, magnesium and phosphorus.
Its characteristic orange colour indicates that it is rich in beta-carotene.
Beta carotenes are converted into vitamin A in the body and provide antioxidants that help prevent some heart diseases, some types of tumours and many degenerative ageing processes.
It is also rich in flavonoids.
For example, in cryptoxanthin, lutein or zeaxanthin destroy harmful free radicals. The latter also helps protect the retina of the eye from macular degeneration.
Pumpkin seeds are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids.
In addition to vitamins, minerals and proteins, omega-3 fatty acids abound in the seeds of this vegetable, helping the body to have this type of fat so essential for the proper functioning of the brain and nervous system.
Contains tryptophan
Precursor of serotonin and melatonin. It has relaxing effects, calms the nerves and improves sleep. So a pumpkin cream for dinner at night will be perfect when your day is about to explode.
Pumpkin
D.R.
And what about the pumpkin on a cosmetic level?
According to Dr. Pedro Catalá, cosmetologist and creator of Twelve Beauty, we face another of the super ingredients in your creams.
“Pumpkin pulp has always been a basic ingredient when preparing some homemade facial masks to hydrate the skin, soften it and clean it deeply. It is also effective in calming burns and removing blackheads. However, the power of the pumpkin is in its seeds. They are rich in many nutrients, including phosphorus, zinc, magnesium, vitamins E, A, riboflavin, thiamine, niacin, and essential fatty acids (EFAs). Pumpkin seed oil is one of the vegetable oils that provides the highest EFAs necessary for healthy skin function. Due to its composition, it is recommended for dry, flaky, cracked and mature skin. It is also effective in reducing the appearance of stretch marks. “
Pumpkin is one of the star vegetables during the fall, not only for its nutritional properties but also because it can be prepared in many ways.
It is a food that provides numerous nutritional benefits and also guarantees a low-calorie intake due to its high water content (between 80 and 90%).
In addition, the pumpkin has a low carbohydrate content and has hardly any fat, which makes it an ideal vegetable for those who follow weight loss regimes.
Another of the beneficial properties of pumpkin is its high fibre content.
This not only benefits the intestinal transit but also gives it satiating properties.
It has vitamins A, B, C and E, which promote the proper functioning of the immune system and magnesium, phosphorus, sulphur, zinc, copper, iron, and calcium.
Without a doubt, it is a great food that can help us maintain or achieve a healthy weight and provide great benefits to our health.
Pumpkin seeds – Properties and benefits
Much of the benefits of pumpkin are in the seeds. Pumpkin seeds are true hidden treasures. They are rich in fibre and fatty acids s monounsaturated, which contribute to protecting the cardiovascular system and the skin. They are also sources of protein, minerals, and vitamins.
Studies suggest that the daily consumption of just 30 grams of pumpkin seeds can bring many health benefits due to its concentration of protein, magnesium, potassium and zinc. Benefits include reduced prostate growth, relaxation of blood vessels, decreased risk of kidney and bladder stones, and prevention of depression. Research also shows that the seeds have a high concentration of phytosterols, which reduce the absorption of cholesterol and prevent some types of cancer. Pumpkin seeds also contain an amino acid called tryptophan, which helps form serotonin, an essential hormone for maintaining a good mood, controlling sleep, stress, depression, and anxiety.
Pumpkin seeds can be eaten raw to preserve all of their healthy fats. To do this, separate them into a shape and let them dry in the sun. If you prefer to roast the toasts, carry out the process within 15 to 20 minutes and remember to stir the seeds so as not to burn constantly. Keep the fire or in the oven at a low temperature.
Tips for preparing pumpkin
Just be creative, and you will find endless ways to reap the benefits of pumpkin in your diet. It can be used in desserts, soups, salads, jams and main dishes. Try microwaving seedless pumpkin chunks for 4-5 minutes (time varies depending on quantity) and see how easy it is to puree the pulp. The puree can receive a touch of cinnamon and nutmeg and be used as a jam, seasoned with salt, olive oil and seasonings and serve as a side for meats. Enjoy even adding it to your favourite yogurt in cake and cookie dough.
