When the weather turns cool and the leaves start to change, it’s time to prepare for the pumpkin craze. It seems like they’re everywhere…because they are! But according to Miami urologist Dr. George Suarez, the pumpkin seeds can be good for your prostate.
If you happen to love pumpkin seeds, you probably roast them. But if you’re one of the consumers who discard them, we suggest that you reconsider.
Here’s why:
1. They’re high in protein.
According to the USDA, 1 cup of roasted pumpkin seeds contain 11.87 grams of protein and 11.8 g dietary fiber. Although plant-based protein is different than animal-based, it’s just as important and pumpkin seeds are a great way to boost your protein.
2. They heighten your magnesium.
A cup of roasted pumpkin seeds also boasts 168 milligrams of magnesium, which is more than half of the amount that adult women should consume daily. According to your Miami urologist, the body needs magnesium for regulating muscle and nerve function, blood sugar levels and blood pressure.
3. They increase your potassium.
The body uses potassium to help muscles contract, regulate fluids, balance minerals and maintain blood pressure; it can also help diminish the risk of recurring kidney stones and bone loss as you age.
4. They boost your immunity with zinc.
Zinc is an important mineral that plays a significant role in immune function. The National Institutes of Health recommends 8 mg. of zinc each day and a cup of pumpkin seeds almost meets that requirement.
5. They aid in prostate health.
Research indicates that pumpkin seeds and their oil may be beneficial in supporting prostate health as well as treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH, or enlarged prostate). According to your Miami urologist, they also include chemicals that may prevent some transformation of testosterone into DHT, which is linked to an enlarged prostate.
6. They make you happy!
Studies indicate that the L-tryptophan in pumpkin seeds can naturally improve the mood and may even fight depression. Your Miami urologist advises that eating pumpkin seeds a few hours before bed can help encourage a good night’s sleep.
7. They are packed with antioxidants.
Pumpkin seeds are exclusive in their abundance of antioxidants. This diverse mixture of antioxidants in pumpkin seeds may provide patients with antioxidant-related properties that are not typically found in food.
If you would like more information regarding your prostate health, call the office of best Miami urologist Dr. George Suarez today to schedule a confidential consultation.
