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PUMPKIN SEEDS - A MUST FOR MEN

Pumpkin Seeds have definitely become quite a trendy snack of late and are quite the staple for the health food enthusiast.

There are many reasons that they are great, from their essential fatty acid content, through to the fibre they contain. However, in terms of men's health, pumpkin seeds top the lot due to the high level of one particular nutrient: zinc.

Zinc is one of the single most important nutrients for men's health. It is needed for the production of testosterone, and our stores are rapidly used for this task daily.

A low intake of zinc can lead to a drop in testosterone levels in a matter of weeks. Zinc also has an important role to play in sperm motility, so is an essential nutrient to top up on if you are thinking of starting a family.

Zinc is relevant to the skin as it regulates the activity of the sebaceous glands. If the skin is too oily, then adequate dietary zinc can reduce sebaceous secretions. Likewise, if the skin is too dry, zinc seems to increase sebaceous gland activity.

Zinc is also vital for immunity.

The white blood cells of the immune system use zinc to code genes that regulate the way in which they respond to specific stimuli, such as pathogens

Pumpkin Seeds also help alleviate the inflammation of joint pain

By Dale Pinnock of the telegraph UK

Complete the following sentence

Pumpkin seeds....

Are filled with lots of minerals including phosphorus, magnesium, manganese, iron and copper.
Are a good source of vitamin K.
Contain phytosterols, compounds that that have been shown to reduce levels of LDL cholesterol.
Contain L-tryptophan, which helps with good sleep and lowering depression. Tryptophan is converted into serotonin and niacin. Serotonin is also very helpful in helping us to have a good night’s sleep.
Are high in zinc, making them a natural protector against osteoporosis. Low intake of zinc is linked to higher rates of osteoporosis. In a study of almost 400 men (age from 45-92) published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition they found a correlation between low dietary intake of zinc, low blood levels of the trace mineral and osteoporosis at the hip and spine.
Are a good source vitamin E; they contain about 35.10 mg of tocopherol per 100 g.
Are the most alkaline-forming seed.
Are an excellent source of vitamin B group (thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, vitamin B-6 (pyridoxine) and folates).
Contain good quality protein. 100 g seeds provide 30 g.
According to studies, pumpkin seeds prevent calcium oxalate kidney stone formation.
Reduce inflammation for arthritis without the side effects of anti-inflammatory drugs.
Are used in many cultures as a natural treatment for tapeworms and other parasites.
Are good for prostate health! The oil in pumpkin seeds alleviates difficult urination that happens with an enlarged prostate.