Pumpkin Seeds: Top 11 Health Benefits & How to Eat

Pumpkin seeds have many health benefits, as they are rich in omega-3, fiber, healthy fats, antioxidants, and minerals like iron and magnesium. 

They can be included in your day-to-day diet to improve function in the brain, heart and intestines. They are also known to reduce systemic inflammation that can occur with many illnesses. 

Pumpkin seeds, scientifically known as Curcurbita maxima, can be consumed raw and incorporated into salads, for example. Or they can be ground up and used in other recipes. Pumpkin seed oil, which also offers immense health benefits, is also available for purchase in health stores or online. 

The main health benefits of pumpkin seeds are: 

1. Relaxation and well-being

Pumpkin seeds possess an great amount of magnesium and tryptophan, which are substances that work within the brain to fight excess stress, fatigue and stimulate the memory. 

2. Weight loss 

Pumpkin seeds are rich in fiber, which keep you fuller and help to reduce the quantity of food consumed every day. This can help with calorie reduction, which favors weight loss. 

3. Increase muscle mass

Pumpkin seeds are a great source of protein, therefore it may be a great food for those looking to increase muscle mass. They can be included in salads, smoothies, yogurt, cereal and snacks. Check out other great supplements for muscle mass that you can take with pumpkin seeds.

4. Protecting cells

These seeds contain a high amount of antioxidants like carotenoids and Vitamin D, which protect cells from free radicals. Pumpkin seeds can help to reduce inflammation and decrease the risk of certain types of cancer, like stomach, prostate, colon and breast cancer. 

5. Decrease inflammation 

High levels of omega-3 are prevalent in pumpkin seeds, which give these seeds a strong anti-inflammatory action in response to stress or illnesses that cause inflammation. This can help to prevent cardiovascular diseases and other cerebral illnesses, and improve overall mood and memory.

Read more about an anti-inflammatory diet and which foods to eat to combat inflammation.

6. Improve prostate and thyroid health

Pumpkin seeds are rich in zinc, which is a mineral that is important for strengthening the immune system and regulate thyroid function. Some studies show that daily consumption of pumpkin seeds can decrease symptoms of benign prostate hyperplasia and improve quality of life. 

Learn about signs and symptoms of thyroid problems to look out for. 

7. Treat intestinal parasitic infections 

These seeds can be used as a home remedy to treat intestinal parasites. They contain anti-parasitic and anthelmintic properties. It can be consumed by both adults and children. See what can cause intestinal infections and how to treat them. 

8. Treat anemia 

Pumpkin seeds are an excellent source of plant-based iron, which helps to treat anemia or low hemoglobin. They can be consumed to be vegans or vegetarians to ensure adequate daily iron intake. 

It is important to consume pumpkin seeds with a vitamin C source to ensure adequate intestinal absorption. Some examples of vitamin C sources include tangerines, papaya, strawberries and kiwi..

9. Relieve stomach ache 

The magnesium content found in pumpkin seeds can help to treat stomach aches and menstrual cramps, as magnesium decreases muscle contractility and nerve impulses. Read about other natural home remedies for stomach aches you can use with pumpkin seeds.

10. Heart health 

These seeds possess phytoesterol, magnesium, zinc, good fatty acids and omega. These components contain cardioprotective effects that work together to maintain heart health by controlling blood pressure, reducing cardiovascular risk, decreasing cholesterol levels and controlling blood sugar levels. 

11. Regulate blood sugar

Because of their high fiber and magnesium content, pumpkin seeds can help to regulate blood sugar levels. You can also try teas to lower blood sugar naturally with your pumpkin seed intake and medical treatment- .

How to prepare pumpkin seeds 

To consume pumpkin seeds, you should extract them directly from a pumpkin, wash them, then place them on a plate under sun to dry out. Once dry, they can be eaten. 

Another way to prepare pumpkin seeds is to place them on a parchment-lined tray and roast them at 75ºC (or 165ºF) until they become golden (which takes about 30 minutes). It is important to shake the seeds at some points to ensure they do not burn. You can also toast the seeds in a pan or in the microwave. 

To add flavor, you can add olive oil, or a pinch of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg or salt. 

How to consume pumpkin seeds 

1.  Roasted pumpkin seeds

Dried pumpkin seeds can be used whole in salads or sops. They can also be eaten as an appetizer or snack with a pinch of salt or ground ginger, which is a common Greek delicacy. 

Avoid using too much salt, especially if you have a history of hypertension. You can eat around 10 to 15 grams per day for one week to eliminate intestinal parasites. 

2. Ground up seeds

You can grind up the seeds in a blender or food processor  and add them to cereal, yogurts or smoothies.  

3. Pumpkin seed oil

This oil can be purchased at some supermarkets or ordered online. It can be used to season salads or added to soups. If added to a soup, be sure to add it prior to consuming, as heating up this oil can result in a loss of nutrients. Ideally it should be consumed while still cold. 

To treat intestinal parasites, you should consume 2 tablespoons of pumpkin seed oil per day for 2 weeks.