What Happens to Your Body When You Eat Pumpkin Seeds

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What Happens to Your Body When You Eat Pumpkin Seeds

Health Benefits of Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin seeds are a popular snack, especially in the fall. And their health benefits extend beyond their seasonal charm. Eating pumpkin seeds regularly offers a variety of nutrition perks, from supporting heart health to improving digestion.

5 Surprising Ways Eating Pumpkin Seeds Can Benefit Your Body

1. May Protect Against Inflammation

Pumpkin seeds contain health-promoting compounds called lignans. "Lignans in pumpkin seeds reduce inflammation and act as powerful antioxidants, helping to lower cancer risk," says Pam Hartnett, MPH, RD, a registered dietitian and cancer recovery coach. "These compounds also block the blood vessels that feed tumors, helping to slow cancer growth."

1. May Support Heart Health

"Pumpkin seeds are a versatile snack or meal addition that can help boost heart health and promote balanced blood sugar levels," says Jessi Holden, MS, RD, a family culinary registered dietitian. They’re low in saturated fat yet rich in heart-friendly plant protein. Additionally, their magnesium may help regulate blood pressure, according to the American Heart Association.

1. May Strengthen Your Immune System

These mighty little seeds are a good source of zinc, which may shorten the duration of a cold. Additionally, their protein and magnesium support energy levels and keep your immune system strong, providing a healthy source of energy for the whole family, says Holden.

1. Might Help You Sleep More Soundly

If you’re looking for a natural way to improve your sleep quality, a small handful of pumpkin seeds before bed may help you sleep better and combat restlessness. Pumpkin seeds are a great source of tryptophan, an amino acid that can help produce serotonin, a feel-good hormone, and melatonin, which can help treat insomnia, says Amy Beney, MS, RD, a nutritionist.

1. May Support Male Reproductive Health

Pumpkin seeds may not get the same seasonal spotlight as pumpkin spice lattes. But their zinc makes them a great choice for male reproductive health. That’s because zinc is a key player in sperm motility. Zinc also supports prostate health and even boosts testosterone levels, explains Teresa Romano, MS, RD, a functional women’s health nutritionist.

6. May Prevent Constipation

Pumpkin seeds are a good source of dietary fiber, which contributes to a healthy digestive system by promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. They also boast magnesium, which acts like a natural laxative by pulling water into the digestive tract to keep waste soft. It also relaxes the intestinal muscles to help things move along smoothly.

Pumpkin Seeds Nutrition

One ounce of shelled pumpkin seeds (about 28 grams) contains:

• Calories: 163
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Total Sugar: <1g
• Added Sugar: 0g
• Protein: 9g
• Total Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2.4g
• Sodium: 6mg

Ways to Enjoy Pumpkin Seeds

1. Sprinkle on Salads

Pumpkin seeds are a healthy, crunchy, and nutritious topping for salads, says Patricia Kolesa, MS, RD, owner of Dietitian Dish, LLC. Try them in this Warm Butternut Squash & Kale Salad with Goat Cheese & Pepitas.

1. Blend into Smoothies

Add pumpkin seeds to your morning smoothie for a protein, fiber, and magnesium boost.

1. Toss into Soup

Whether it’s a Pumpkin Spice Butternut Squash Soup or a Curried Butternut Squash Soup with Crispy Halloumi, these ingenious little seeds are a great way to add texture and staying power.

1. Use as a Crunchy Topping

Pumpkin seeds make a nutritious, filling topping for yogurt, like our Raspberry Yogurt Cereal Bowl. They’re also a fantastic way to add crunch to oatmeal, like these Pumpkin Overnight Oats.

1. Roast with Spices

Roast pumpkin seeds with your favorite spices for a savory and crunchy snack. Try these Salt & Vinegar Pumpkin Seeds for a fun twist on a roasted classic.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What happens if you eat pumpkin seeds every day?

Eating pumpkin seeds daily provides nutrients like zinc and magnesium, plant-based protein, and healthy fats. These nutrients support heart health, digestion, and immunity.

2. How much pumpkin seeds should you eat daily?

A recommended serving is one ounce (28 grams) of pumpkin seeds per day, which is slightly less than a quarter-cup.

3. Are there downsides to eating pumpkin seeds?

For most people, pumpkin seeds are a healthy addition to their diet. Overeating them may cause digestive issues like bloating or gas. And folks with allergies to seeds should avoid them. Because pumpkin seeds are energy-dense, it’s essential to keep portion sizes small.

The Bottom Line

Pumpkin seeds are nutrient powerhouses! They’re packed with fiber and healthy fats, and they deliver plant-based protein plus minerals like magnesium, iron, and zinc. So, they’re a tasty way to support heart health, digestion, immunity, and more. Go ahead and add a small handful to your daily rotation. Of course, they’re delicious roasted as a snack. But don’t stop there. They’re a great way to pump up the nutrition in salads, smoothies, soups, and more. For more inspiration, check out our Healthy Pumpkin Seed Recipes!