You'll usually find pumpkin seeds in traditional trail mixes, and there is a very good reason. You probably crunched them down without really thinking about it much, as I have done on many a hiking trip. But what you probably didn't realize is that these little seeds pack a very powerful punch, in more ways than one.
1. Magnesium & Zinc: Half a cup of pumpkin seeds will provide you with 92% of the magnesium that your body needs in a day. This is important because magnesium is what helps your body to absorb calcium and will protect your bones and teeth. Magnesium and Zinc also play a key role in muscle function and a healthy immune system. Zinc will also help your body heal wounds! They are not found in common foods, so relying on pre-packaged foods in a crisis could leave you with serious deficiencies.
2. Protein, Fat, Carbs and Calories: Pumpkin seeds are primarily fat, but the kind of fat that's good for you... no trans fats! They are high in protein and a one ounce serving (80 seeds) can provide you with about 125 calories. That means eating a cup of seeds will give you a 300 calorie boost! And while your body is enjoying the energy charge from all those calories, you'll also be taking in significant fiber, important to keeping your intestinal system moving along at the right pace.
3. Phytosterols: Pumpkin seeds contain phytosterols, which is best known for blocking the absorption of bad cholesterol. If you already have high cholesterol, eating pumpkin seeds will lower it. Phytosterols have also been shown to help reduce and prevent many different kinds of cancer as well.
4. L-Tryptophan: Think of pumpkin seeds as a daily dose of natural anti-depressants. The amino acids found in L-Tryptophan are used by the body to make serotonin, a chemical produced in the brain that helps you to feel happy. A daily dose of sunshine (also a serotonin booster) and some pumpkin seeds, and you will be wel protected against depression and anxiety during a crisis.
5. Anti-inflammatory: Pumpkin seeds provide you will all natural muscle relaxation and anti-inflammatory benefits. Headaches, muscle aches and other minor inflammatory conditions can be treated with pumpkin seeds without incurring the side effects of over the counter pain medication. (I personally use them to keep migraines at bay, and they DO. The combination of Magnesium and Anti-inflammatory action are what I believe is doing the job.)
6. Parasites: As if all these benefits were not enough, Mother Nature also imbued the pumpkin seed with a special weapon for emergency situations... they are anti-parasitic, an important consideration when food or water supplies may not be sanitary. Cultures around the world have been using pumpkins seeds for hundreds of years to treat tapeworms and other nasty invaders. Add some curry powder and garlic to some roasted pumpkin seeds and not only will you have a tasty treat, but the powerful anti-parasitic properties of these three combined will send microscopic varmits running for the hills.
7. Calcium Absorption: And finally, if you are prone to kidney stones or poor bladder health, pumpkins will take care of that, too. By helping your body to absorb calcium that might otherwise accumulate, you avoid painful stones and bladder problems.
So, next time you grab that trail mix, or consider your survival supplies, or buy seeds for your garden, make sure you pay proper respect to pumpkins and their humble seeds. They more than deserve it! And if you insist on making a pumpkin pie, however, I think I'll pass.
