Written by Dr. Lisa Goodman
Pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas, are flat, dark green seeds that have many proven health benefits for men.
Benign prostatic hypertrophy, or BPH, is a condition that commonly affects men 50 years and older. BPH involves enlargement of the prostate gland. One of the factors that contributes to BPH is overstimulation of the prostate cells by testosterone and its conversion product, DHT (dihydrotestosterone). Components in pumpkin seed oil appear able to interrupt this triggering of prostate cell multiplication by testosterone and DHT. Zinc, another nutrient found in pumpkin seeds, may also impact prostate function. The fact that pumpkin seeds serve as a good source of zinc may contribute to the role of pumpkin seeds in support of the prostate.
In addition to maintaining prostate health, another reason for men to make zinc-rich foods a regular part of their healthy way of eating is bone mineral density. Although osteoporosis is often thought to be a disease for which postmenopausal women are at highest risk, it is also a potential problem for older men. Almost 30% of hip fractures occur in men, and 1 in 8 men over age 50 will have an osteoporotic fracture. A study of almost 400 men ranging in age from 45-92 that was published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found a clear correlation between low dietary intake of zinc, low blood levels of the trace mineral, and osteoporosis at the hip and spine.
The healing properties of pumpkin seeds have also been recently investigated with respect to arthritis, cholesterol levels, immune response and a decreased risk of certain cancers.
About Dr. Lisa Goodman
Dr. Lisa Goodman, DC, CCSP lives in Denver, CO with her husband and two young sons. Her chiropractic practice specializes in women’s health and sports injury & prevention. She is a certified chiropractic sports physician and is prenatal certified. For more information, visit www.washparkchiro.com
2 comments
“wow, awesome blog.Really looking forward to read more. Want more.”