12 Reasons Why This Should be Your Favorite New Snack

Butternut Squash

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7. Great for Postmenopausal Women

Pumpkin seeds and pumpkin seed oil are rich in phytoestrogens, which are plant-made estrogens that mimic human estrogen. This is good news for women who are going through “the change.” Pumpkin seeds can offer relief from annoying hot flashes, headaches, and joint pains, while it lowers blood pressure levels and increases the HDL (good) cholesterol in the body. Ladies, eat one or two ounces of pumpkin seeds each day for some welcome relief.

 

8. Anti-Diabetic Compounds

Studies done on animals link pumpkin seeds to improved insulin regulation, which can help prevent complications from diabetes by decreasing oxidative stress. Pumpkin seeds are extremely low on the glycemic index also, which makes them a great snack for diabetics.

 

9. Here’s Looking at You!

Pumpkin seeds contain high levels of vitamins A and E, lutein, zeaxanthin, and beta-carotene, all of which encourage and promote healthy vision. Eating pumpkin seeds may be the best thing you can do to protect and maintain your eyesight. One study, published by the National Eye Institute, found that 80 mg of zinc along with other antioxidants (such as vitamin E and A) can lower the risk of developing macular degeneration by as much as 25 percent. Vitamin A and zinc, which pumpkin seeds have plenty of, are also important for the production of melanin, a substance the body makes to naturally protect the eyes, In fact, the American Optometric Association recommends consuming zinc every day to support healthy eyes. Pumpkin seeds are loaded with zinc, so find some to munch on!

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