Pumpkin to Boost your Memory Power

For many people the only thing that pumpkin means is "Jack-o-Lantern" or pumpkin pie. However, pumpkin is a multipurpose vegetable and a source of several minerals, vitamins and essential fatty acids (Omega-3 and Omega-6).

The easily digestible pumpkin is low in fat, so it is a perfect vegetable for overweight people.

Pumpkin is very rich in potassium and dietary fiber. Its water content is also high, so it is a perfect solution for ones suffering from constipation or for people seeking natural diuretics.

Pumpkin seed oil is one of the top nutritional oils providing the highest essential fatty acids (Omega-3 and Omega-6) required for healthy body and mind functioning.

We often hear about Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids and their important role in our diet? But why are they so ”essential” for us? Roughly saying, there are two main groups of fats: the good ones and the bad ones. Over-processed dishes usually contain "bad fats” (trans fats and animal fats) so if you eat too much junk food, your bad cholesterol (LDL) will be raised and this may lead to heart diseases. The excess of bad fats can also cause Omega-3 deficiency which can trigger numerous health problems, diseases such as heart attacks, cancer, insulin resistance, asthma, lupus, schizophrenia, depression, accelerated aging, stroke, obesity, diabetes, arthritis, Alzheimer's Disease, etc.

Broadly speaking, EFAs have an impact on the cardiovasular, reproductive, immune and nervous systems. They are able to repair damaged cell membranes and support the optimum nutrition supply of the cells. EFAs have an important role in the synthesis of vitamin D and hormons. They affect the immune function and they are well-known for their inflammtory effects.

Omega-3 intake is especially important for children, particularly for their neural development.

Our body cannot manufacture essential fatty acids (Omega-3 and Omega-6), so we must get them through diet.

Phytosterin

Pumpkin also contains phytosterin which reduces blood cholesterol and prostate cancer.

Squalene

Squalene is an other important compound of pumpkin seed oil. As opposed to EFAs, human bodies are able to produce it. It has an similar effect on the human body as Vitamin A, Vitamin D and Vitamin E. Squalene plays an important role in the Mediterranean diet. It’s applied for skin problems effectively in Japan and in other Asian countries. Squalene increases the oxygen supply to the cells and helps strengthen the reviving power of the body. It has an antioxidant effect and has a role in the synthesis of steroid hormons, cholesterols and Vitamin D. It also boost the immune system. The main sources of squalene are shark liver oil, olive oil and other vegetable oils.

Citrulline

The organic compound citrulline is an amino acid. Its name derives from citrullus (the Latin name for watermelon) from which it was first isolated. Citrulline catalyzes urine production and it has been shown to be effective in managing prostate problems.

Potassium and Selenium

Potassium and selenium are the most important minerals which are worth mentioning. Potassium is a diuretic compound. Pumpkin seeds are great source of selenium which treats urine problems.

Vitamin E

Pumpkin seeds contain 20–30mg % Vitamin E which is effective in treating heart diseases, circulatory problems, infertility, premature birth, climax, tissue diseases and muscle atrophy. Vitamin E prevents fats and oils from becoming rancid as it is an antioxidant compound.

B Vitamins

B Vitamins are also essential for the human body. They support and increase the rate of metabolism and enhance immune and nervous system functions.

Beta-carotene

The pumpkin is also loaded with beta-carotene which gives its bright orange color.
This vitamin is another important antioxidant which helps us fight free radicals.