Pumpkin Seed Bark Recipe - Dark Chocolate & Sea Salt (2024)

FAQs

Is pumpkin seeds with sea salt good for you? ›

✅ HIGH PROTEIN SNACKS: Pumpkin seeds roasted and salted make a fantastic keto snack. They are relatively high in protein compared to many other seeds and nuts, with an average of 20-30 grams of protein per 100 grams --a valuable plant-based protein!

Not safe for those with low blood pressure

If you already have low blood pressure (hypotension), then just bid adieu to pumpkin seeds as they are antioxidant in nature, and help to lower blood pressure. Consult an expert before opting for these seeds, in case you wish to eat them.

Pumpkin seeds are edible, nutritious seeds from pumpkins that are roasted, salted, and eaten as a snack in many parts of the world. They're very nutritious, with omega-3 fatty acids and lots of minerals, and they have anti-inflammatory effects that have many potential health benefits.

The American Heart Association recommends a quarter cup of daily intake of pumpkin seeds as part of an overall healthy diet, which is approximately 30 g. This amount will provide you with a good amount of protein, healthy fats, fiber, zinc, selenium, magnesium, and other effective nutrients.

They are high in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. These nutrients are great for your heart and immune system and reduce inflammation. One surprising benefit of pumpkin seeds is their effect on fertility. They are believed to promote healthy testosterone levels and improve sperm quality.

Pumpkin seeds are excellent for kidney health. They are high in essential nutrients that may help protect the kidneys. These tiny seeds are high in antioxidants, which may help reduce progression of chronic kidney disease. They also contain essential minerals which keep your kidneys healthy.

In fact, pumpkin seeds have been shown to improve heart health, blood sugar levels, fertility, and sleep quality. They may even protect against certain types of cancer. In addition, their rich nutrient content may provide other health benefits, such as improved energy, mood, and immune function.

Side effects of eating pumpkin seeds

Pumpkin seeds are high in fiber, so individuals not used to fiber in their diet or who cannot tolerate fiber due to a physical condition may experience gastrointestinal distress such as bloating, gas, constipation or diarrhea.

Individuals suffering from digestive conditions, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, also known as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), should avoid or limit their intake of whole pumpkin seeds and even the shelled varieties.

Heart and Liver Health

As pumpkin seeds are dense in nutrients such as fats, omega 3s and fibres they can be a fantastic savoury, satisfying snack. Research published has found that pumpkin seeds when combined with flax seeds protect the liver from a high cholesterol diet as well as lowering the blood pressure.

What organs are pumpkin seeds good for? ›

Pumpkin seeds are a suitable source of healthy fats, magnesium, and other nutrients that enhance heart and bone health. They are also rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants such as selenium and beta carotene. Additionally, they are a high source of iron.

According to studies, pumpkin seeds prevent calcium oxalate kidney stone formation. Pumpkin seeds reduce inflammation and counter arthritis pain without the side effects of anti-inflammatory drugs. They are used in many cultures as a natural treatment for tapeworms and other parasites.

While pumpkin seeds can be consumed at any time of the day, there are certain times when they can be especially beneficial. Morning: Eating pumpkin seeds in the morning can provide your body with the necessary energy to kickstart your day.

The health benefits of pumpkin seeds

Pumpkin seeds can be raw or roasted. In addition to bringing to life the flavors, aroma and texture, roasting also increases the amounts of antioxidants available. It also makes them easier to digest! Raise your hand if you're all-in on healthy fats!

A randomised controlled trial, involving 72 people, found that lightly salting nuts did not cancel out the heart health benefits of eating raw nuts (9). In fact, eating both raw and salted nuts improved HDL (good) cholesterol and systolic blood pressure over the 28-day study period.

Pumpkin seeds are covered in a thin membrane. The enzymes in the membrane are difficult to chew and digest, which is why you want to soak the seeds for 12-24 hours. For every 1 cup of seeds add: [2 cups of water + 1/2 Tablespoon salt.] Some sources indicate that a 10 minute soak will do the job.

What Type of Pumpkin Seeds Are Best to Eat? The best pumpkin seeds to eat are hull-less, also known as pepitas. Pepitas are naked — that is, they do not have any cream-colored hull covering them that you would see on any old jack-o-lantern. They are also delicious and full of healthy fats, protein and minerals.

The bottom line

Pumpkin seed shells are safe to eat and provide more fiber than green, shelled pumpkin seeds. However, people with digestive conditions may want to avoid whole seeds, as their high fiber content can trigger symptoms like pain and diarrhea.