Magnesium Health Watch

We recently were discussing pumpkin seeds as a rich source for magnesium.  Today, we came across this very interesting article at Cold Truth that provides more information on the nutritional properties of the pumpkin and how it was used as a medicine throughout history. Apparently the pumpkin has far more to offer than just vitamins and minerals like magnesium!

Here’s an excerpt:

“The pumpkin has long been recognized as a natural medicine cabinet. Food scientists have cited historical references to pumpkin being used by Native Americans for the treatment of intestinal infections.

As long ago as the 1870s, American’s ultimate authority for prescription, over-the-counter and natural medications – the United States Pharmacopoeia – listed pumpkin skin and seeds for treatment of parasites and kidney maladies.

Pumpkin is very low in calories, rich in potassium,  magnesium and iron and its bright orange flesh of pumpkin is loaded with the antioxidant beta -carotene that fight free radicals.”

via Cold Truth » Blog Archive » The skin of a pumpkin skin may scare away germs.

We’re always on the lookout for magnesium-rich foods to recommend for meals and snacks.  Believe it or not, pumpkin seeds are a mineral-rich food you’ll find plenty of this time of year.   In addition to magnesium, pumpkin seeds are full of zinc, copper, manganese, phosphorous, protein and potassium.

Here’s are some suggestions for how to enjoy pumpkin seeds:

“Place them in a single layer on a cookie sheet and light roast them in a 160-170ºF oven for 15-20 minutes. Roasting them for a short time at a low temperature helps to preserve their healthy oils.

Enjoy your pumpkin seeds as a healthy snack or add them to a green salad. You can even grind them up to put in pesto or add them to your favorite cereal for extra nutrition. Store the seeds in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last one to two months.”

Pumpkin Seeds Offer Great Health Benefits | HULIQ.