The lowdown on pumpkin seeds

Pumpkin seeds are full of nutrients and can be added to any dish to bring an extra health boost.

Pumpkin seeds are a great source of the antioxidant vitamin E helping to protect our cells against toxins and pollutants, eye disorders, and neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s and diabetes.

These wonderful little seeds are also known for their anti-microbial benefits which is great at this time of year when our immune systems take a hammering from all the coughs and colds about.

35g of pumpkin seeds can provide nearly half of our daily magnesium which we need for heart function, bone and teeth formation and can aid sleep and de-stress. If you are feeling stressed and think you’re going to have a restless night’s sleep then eat some pumpkin seeds with a small piece of fruit (an apple) 30 minutes before you go to bed and this should help you get a good night’s sleep.

The seeds are also:

• A rich source of zinc which is again great for our immune system
• Great for aiding cell growth
• A plant-based source of omega-3
• Can increase our good cholesterol
• Decrease blood pressure and headaches

Pumpkin seeds are literally little nutrient bullets!