It is no wonder that protein is a hot topic in every health circle out there. Whether you are concerned with bone maintenance, energy, or building strength, protein is an essential nutrient in your diet.
Further, many people don’t know that proteins from animal sources are not all they’re cracked up to be. While animal foods may cause inflammation, plant-based foods don’t. And, this is where pepitas seeds come into play!
These seeds are not only a natural source of protein, but they also contain several essential nutrients. Read to know why pepitas are so healthy.
Pepitas Seeds- A Gift From Nature
Seeds are the most overlooked nutrient sources in the plant-based diet options. However, many seeds, like flax, chia, hemp, etc. are gaining popularity now more than ever.
Pepitas are other seeds that provide amazing health benefits and nutrients to the body. These seeds are truly a nutritional superstar. Not only these seeds taste good, but they also serve as a healthy protein option.
Keep in mind that small, green, organic pepitas seeds will offer more nutrients than other varieties available in the market, like roasted or salted. Besides, they may be sprayed with pesticides. So, it is important to choose an organic source.
What Do Pepitas Seeds Contain?
Pepitas are edible seeds packed with nutrients. An ounce or 30 grams of pepitas serving offers a strong punch of nutrition. An ounce contains around 170 calories, and breakdowns into proteins, carb, and fat.
They are a good source of vital minerals, and one of the best natural sources of magnesium, copper, and phosphorus. They also contain iron, zinc, copper, and manganese. Aside from this, they also provide the body with a dose of antioxidants and prevent the cells from damage. They have more fiber than many nuts and are easier to digest than nuts or grains.
All these nutrients help keep your body working at the peak condition. Along with forming healthy bones and teeth, these nutrients also work wonders at keeping your immune system strong.
What Are The Health Benefits Of Pepitas?
The delicious pepitas pumpkin seeds provide wonderful health benefits to the lucky ones who consume them regularly. Are you still wondering if pepitas are good for your health? If yes, below some of the benefits of consuming pepitas seeds-
Helps In Weight Loss And Diabetes
Mono and poly-saturated fats found in pepitas pumpkin seeds keep your metabolism running smoothly. It also maintains hormonal imbalance and keeps you stay satiated for a longer time. It is also found to be helpful in weight management and preventing diabetes complications.
Promotes a Healthy Digestive System
One ounce pepitas seeds contain around 5-gram fiber. A fiber-rich diet keeps the digestive system healthy while preventing constipation.
Boosts Fertility
Pepitas pumpkin seeds are rich in fiber, unsaturated fats, and several nutrients, including amino acids, magnesium, etc. Thus, they help enhance testosterone levels. However, you shouldn’t use these seeds to address any medical condition without consulting with a doctor.
Better Heart Health
Many nutrients present in pepitas seeds, including omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, and antioxidants, promote heart health. They have anti-hypersensitive effects and keep high blood pressure or high cholesterol in control.
Better Sleep Quality
Pepitas contain two compounds that help fall you asleep. One is magnesium, which is known to improve one’s perception of their sleep quality, such as sleep efficiency, sleep time, or morning awakening.
The other is tryptophan. It is an amino acid with sleep moderating effects that convert into serotonin and melatonin (sleep hormone) by the body. The result is a better quality of sleep.
Conclusion
Pepitas have a nutty, sweet taste and chewy texture. It makes a healthy addition to any of your sweet or savory recipes. Just a handful of pepitas pumpkin seeds daily go a long way. However, it is good to start with small amounts, feel the benefits, and then continue using the seeds as a part of your diet.
Why is there a picture of a papaya at the top? The article is not about papayas it is about pepitas.
Thank you for the information; it was just what I was looking for.
Pepitas and pumpkin seeds are very different, pepitas dont have shells and much more nutrition, what next calling sweet potatoes and yams the same thing??