8 Secrets of a Precious Seed: How Eating Pumpkin Seeds Affects the Body

Tuesday, January 27, 2026

SAEDNEWS: Pumpkin seeds are the seeds of the pumpkin, used as nuts, seeds, oilseeds, or in traditional medicine. They offer numerous benefits for the body.

8 Secrets of a Precious Seed: How Eating Pumpkin Seeds Affects the Body

According to Saed News Health Service, pumpkin seeds are packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Adding pumpkin seeds to your daily diet can provide numerous benefits for both physical and mental health. They are rich sources of oleic acid, fiber, protein, and both micro- and macronutrients. Due to their high zinc content, pumpkin seeds also have antifungal properties, particularly for scalp health.

Benefits of Pumpkin Seeds

Benefit

Explanation

Heart Health

Pumpkin seeds are good sources of antioxidants, magnesium, zinc, and fatty acids that support heart health. Animal studies have shown that pumpkin seed oil can help reduce high blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Cholesterol Reduction

One of the most important properties of pumpkin seeds is their ability to reduce and regulate cholesterol. Phytosterols, structurally similar to cholesterol, reduce the absorption of low-density proteins in the intestines. Pumpkin seeds also contain copper, which increases red blood cell count and improves oxygen transport in the blood.

Stress Reduction

Pumpkin seeds are rich in magnesium, which has a calming effect on the nervous system and supports neurotransmitter signaling in the brain, helping improve mood and relaxation.

Immune System Support

As a source of zinc, pumpkin seeds can help reduce inflammatory cytokine production and oxidative stress, both of which negatively affect immune function. Zinc is a vital mineral for strengthening immunity.

Hair Shine and Strength

Pumpkin seeds contain vitamins A and K, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for hair and scalp health. Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation, promote hair growth, and prevent hair loss. Regular consumption can make hair stronger, thicker, and shinier.

Bone Health

Pumpkin seeds contain calcium and zinc, which help maintain bone mass and may reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Regular zinc intake is associated with lower risk of age-related bone loss.

Blood Sugar Balance

Pumpkin seed extract may increase insulin levels and reduce oxidative stress. Its anti-diabetic effects are linked to phenols, flavonoids, and saponins, making it helpful in regulating blood sugar.

Digestive Health

Pumpkin seeds are a good source of dietary fiber. 28 grams of shelled pumpkin seeds contain 5.2 grams of fiber, while seeds with shells provide only 1.7 grams. Fiber-rich diets improve digestive health and lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity.