Organic Pumpkin Seeds, 1 lb - International Harvest

Origin: CHINA

Crunchy pumpkin seeds are rich in calories. In addition they are packed with fiber, vitamins, minerals and numerous health promoting antioxidants.

100 g pumpkin kernels provide 559 calories. Their high caloric content mainly comes from fats. However, the nuts are especially rich in mono-unsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) like oleic acid (18:1) that helps to lower LDL or "bad cholesterol" and increase HDL or "good cholesterol" in the blood. Research studies suggest that Mediterranean diet which is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids helps to prevent coronary artery disease and strokes by favoring healthy blood lipid profile.

The seeds contain good quality proteins. 100 g seeds provide 30 g or 54% of recommended daily allowance. In addition, the seeds are excellent source of amino acids tryptophan and glutamate. Tryptophan is converted in to serotonin and niacin. Serotonin is a beneficial neuro-chemical often labelled as nature's sleeping pill. Further, tryptophan is precursor of vitamin niacin 60 mg of tryptophan = 1mg niacin).

Glutamate is required in the synthesis of γ-amino butyric acid (GABA). GABA, an anti-stress neurochemical in the brain, helps reducing anxiety, nervous irritability and other neuroses conditions.

Pepitas are very good source of anti-oxidant vitamin E; contain about 35.10 mg of tocopherol-γ per 100 g (about 237% of RDA). Vitamin E is a powerful lipid soluble antioxidant. It prevents tissue cells from the free radical mediated oxidant injury. Thus it maintains the integrity of mucus membranes and skin by protecting it from harmful oxygen free radicals.

Pumpkin kernels are also excellent source of B-complex group of vitamins such as thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, vitamin B-6 (pyridoxine) and folates. These vitamins functions as co-factors for enzymes during cellular substrate metabolism in the body. In addition, niacin help reduce LDL-cholesterol levels in the blood. Along with glutamate, it enhances GABA activity inside the brain which in turn help reduce anxiety and neurosis.

Furthermore, its seeds contain very good levels of essential minerals like copper, manganese, potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc and selenium. Just as pine nuts, pumpkin seeds are very rich in manganese (provide 4543 mg per 100 g, about 198% of daily recommended intake), pines are one of the richest sources of manganese. Manganese is an all important co-factor for antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase. It is therefore consumption of pumpkin kernels helps body develop resistance against infectious agents and scavenge harmful oxygen free radicals.

10 Health Benefits of Pumpkin Seeds

Prostate Protection

They promote overall prostate health and alleviate the difficult urination associated with an enlarged prostate.

Improved Bladder Function

In some studies, pumpkin seed extracts improved bladder function in animals.

Depression Treatment

They contain L-tryptophan, a compound naturally effective against depression.

Prevention of Osteoporosis

Because they are high in zinc, pumpkin seeds are a natural protector against osteoporosis. Low intake of zinc is linked to higher rates of osteoporosis.

Natural Anti-Inflammatory

Pumpkin seeds effectively reduce inflammation without the side effects of anti-inflammatory drugs.

Prevention of Kidney Stones

They prevent calcium oxalate kidney stone formation, according to studies.

Treatment of Parasites

They are used in many cultures as a natural treatment for tapeworms and other parasites. Studies also show them to be effective against acute schistosomiasis, a parasite contracted from snails.

Great Source of Magnesium

1/2 cup of pumpkin seeds contains 92% of your daily value of magnesium, a mineral in which most Americans are deficient.

Lower Cholesterol

Pumpkin seeds contain phytosterols, compounds that that have been shown to reduce levels of LDL cholesterol.

Cancer Prevention

The same phytosterols that lower cholesterol also protect against many cancers.

*As a result of changing seasons and crops, you may notice a difference or variation in the color, size, texture, taste, etc. of this product. We thank you for your kind understanding of these variances. Your feedback and suggestions are always welcome. We highly value your input, as it helps us to identify how we can better serve you in the future. Thank YOU! -The Raw Food World Team

* These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.