Pumpkin seeds are a powerhouse of nutrients, filled with antioxidants and being a rich source of phosphorus and magnesium, are great for our heart health and reduce the risk of a heart stroke. Being a natural source of tryptophan, these seeds promote sleep. Studies have also shown that pumpkin seeds have anti-cancer properties that can stop the growth of breast and prostate cancer cells.
How to eat pumpkin seeds?
1. Have it as a plain snack
The best and easiest way to eat pumpkin seeds is to just start eating them. Keep them in a small jar and munch on them whenever hungry. There are many varieties available in the market like salted or caramelized but it is best to have them plain and enjoy its sweet and nutty taste.
2. Use them as toppings
Anything cooked, sweet or savory, will be enriched with a garnishing of pumpkin seeds. Whether it’s breakfast cereal, a salad or desserts like cupcakes or puddings, one can always sprinkle some pumpkin seeds on top to make them more crunchy, flavourful and nutritious.
3. Cook the seeds
You can have them roasted, toasted or sauteed. This will give a crackle to your pumpkin seeds and enhance its flavor.
4. Chaat
We can make a healthy salad-cum-chaat with the pumpkin seeds. Chop up some onions, coriander and green chilies into the pumpkin seeds and squeeze some lemon juice and add salt to taste. Mix it up and a scrumptious plate of pumpkin seed chaat is ready.
5. Make a smoothie out of it
Pumpkin seeds can be a healthy addition to our breakfast smoothie. While making any kind of smoothie, banana, blueberry or mango, just add a handful of soaked pumpkin seeds and blend them together.
A pro tip on pumpkin seeds
Pumpkin seeds are high in calories and can make you pile on weight if not eaten in the right quantities. A quarter cup of the seeds every day is good enough to get its health benefits without increasing your calorie count.
Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purpose only and should not be taken as professional medical advice. Please consult a doctor before starting any fitness regime or medical advice.
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