We’ve all been there – that sluggish, post-lunch wave of fatigue that creeps in after the initial caffeine buzz of the day has long since abated. Energy drinks or an additional cup of coffee may work as quick fixes but loading up on caffeine so late in the day can wreak havoc on your sleep come bedtime, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. Thankfully, science offers us a viable alternative to get our engine back up and running – without the accompanying jitters.
Pumpkin seeds fall into the category of “super seeds,” a term often used to reference nutrient-rich seeds that are packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Joining the ranks of chia seeds, flaxseeds, and numerous others, pumpkin seeds are a great source of fiber, protein, magnesium, manganese, and phosphorus. Though small, pumpkin seeds pack a punch when it comes to health benefits. Among them, pumpkin seeds have been shown to decrease inflammation, lower one’s risk for diabetes, boost heart health, and hinder the growth of cancer cells. But can pumpkin seeds boost our energy levels, too?
Consider reaching for pumpkin seeds over coffee
If you feel a bit tiered in the afternoon, pumpkin seeds can help. Pumpkin seeds contain various nutrients that can help maintain our body’s energy in different ways. For example, the magnesium in pumpkin seeds helps keep our blood sugar levels balanced. When you eat a handful of pumpkin seeds in place of coffee, you’re avoiding the inevitable blood sugar crash later that afternoon.
Additionally, when eating pumpkin seeds, you’re giving your body a healthy dose of iron. According to many experts in the field, just 1 ounce of pumpkin seeds takes care of 11% of the daily recommended daily intake of the mineral. Without adequate amounts of iron, your red blood cells aren’t getting enough oxygen needed to function, leading to fatigue according to the Mayo Clinic.Columbia University scientists sate that 30% of U.S. women and children are considered iron deficient. By maintaining a healthy intake of iron, you can help keep exhaustion at bay.
So, my friends, don’t forget to eat a handful of pumpkin seeds every day; I prefer eating them with my lunch.
That’s it for now, see you all the next time.
