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Pumpkin Seed

In season all year

Food Description:

The edible seeds of a pumpkin - these seeds are white and hard with the kernel on the inside. Usually bought roasted and salted.

General Information:

Category: Seed
To Buy: Avoid buying dry-roasted, salted pumpkin seeds. Not only have they lost most of their nutritional goodness in the roasting process, but many are so hard they are almost inedible.
To Store: Store in an airtight container in a cool place or the refrigerator for up to 5 months.
Tips and Tricks: Roast your own pumpkin seeds (see cooking tips) or buy pepitas.

Nutrition (1 Tablespoon):

Weight (grams): 12
Carbohydrates, g: 1.6
Fat (g): 5.3
Monosaturated Fat , g: 1.3
Zinc: Antioxidant and immune boosting, zinc fights infection and plays a role in wound healing. It is essential for growth and health of reproductive organs, especially the prostate. Needed for healthy hair, skin and nails. Also necessary for bone formation.
Amines: Amines come the breakdown or fermentation of proteins. High amounts are found in cheese, chocolate, wine, beer and yeast extracts. Smaller amounts are present in some fruits and vegetables such as tomatoes, avocados, bananas.

For those with sensitivities, low foods are almost never a problem, moderate and high foods may cause reactions, depending on how sensitive you are and how much is eaten. Very high foods will most often cause unwanted symptoms in sensitive individuals. No information available
Glutamates: Glutamate is found naturally in many foods, as part of protein. It enhances the flavour of food, which is why foods rich in natural glutamates such as tomatoes, mushrooms and cheeses are commonly used in meals. Pure monosodium glutamate (MSG) is used as an additive to artificially flavour many processed foods, and should be avoided, especially in sensitive individuals as it can cause serious adverse reactions. n/a
Energy (kJ): 282
Protein (g): 2.9
Saturated Fat, g : 0.8
Iron, mg: Main function is synthesis of red blood cells, thus delivering oxygen around the body and maintaining all bodily functions.

Contraindications:
Excess accumulation may play a role in development of heart disease.
Magnesium: Involved in energy production and proper functioning of muscles and nerves, magnesium also promotes the absorption of other minerals and promotes blood vessel dilation and lowers the risk of blood clots.
Salicylates: Naturally occurring plant chemicals found in several fruits, vegetables, nuts, herbs and spices, jams, honey, yeast extracts, tea and coffee, juices, beer and wines. Also present in flavourings, perfumes, scented toiletries and some medications.

For those with sensitivities, low foods are almost never a problem, moderate and high foods may cause reactions, depending on how sensitive you are and how much is eaten. Very high foods will most often cause unwanted symptoms in sensitive individuals. No information available

Cooking:

Cooking Tips: Wipe 1 cup seeds clean and toss in 1 tbsp olive oil. Spread them out on a baking sheet and bake at 180C for 30 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned. Cool and serve with a small amount of sea salt.

Benefits the Following Health Conditions:*

Immune Deficiencies
Low Energy
Malnutrition
Stress
Intestinal Worms & Parasites
Low Libido
Prostate Problems
Detoxifying

* This information is sourced by a qualified naturopath. It is non prescriptive and not intended as a cure for the condition. Recommended intake is not provided. It is no substitute for the advice and treatment of a professional practitioner.