Potent Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are mineral rich; they contain high quantities of magnesium, manganese and phosphorus, and are also an ample source of iron, copper, vitamin K, protein and zinc.
Magnesium is needed for more than 300 biochemical reactions in the body. It helps maintain normal muscle and nerve function, keeps heart rhythm steady, supports a healthy immune system, and keeps bones strong. Magnesium also helps regulate blood sugar levels, promotes normal blood pressure, and is known to be involved in energy metabolism and protein synthesis. There is an increased interest in the role of magnesium in preventing and managing disorders such as hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.
Manganese is a trace mineral that is present in tiny amounts in the body. It is found mostly in bones, the liver, kidneys, and pancreas. Manganese helps the body form connective tissue, bones, blood-clotting factors, and sex hormones. It also plays a role in fat and carbohydrate metabolism, calcium absorption, and blood sugar regulation. Manganese is also necessary for normal brain and nerve function.
Phosphorus helps filter out waste in the kidneys and plays an essential role in how the body stores and uses energy. It also helps reduce muscle pain after a hard workout. Phosphorus is needed for the growth, maintenance, and repair of all tissues and cells, and for the production of the genetic building blocks, DNA and RNA. Phosphorus is also needed to help balance and use other vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, iodine, magnesium, and zinc.
These potent little power seeds also contain a range of phytosterol compounds. These sterols are present is plants that have a chemical structure similar to cholesterol, and when included in the diet in adequate amounts, they can reduce cholesterol, enhance the immune system and decrease the risk of certain cancers.
For the greatest nutritional punch, it’s best to eat pumpkin seeds raw as high temperatures tend to destroy the potency of their essential fatty acids.These potent little power seeds also contain a range of phytosterol compounds. These sterols are present is plants that have a chemical structure similar to cholesterol, and when included in the diet in adequate amounts, they can reduce cholesterol, enhance the immune system and decrease the risk of certain cancers.
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