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Golfing Healthy – 12 Reasons to Enjoy Pumpkin Seeds

Golfing Healthy with Cate Ritter

A Dozen Reasons to Enjoy Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin seeds are an excellent source of the essential mineral and powerful antioxidant zinc. Also called pepitas, pumpkin seeds are a “super” seed packed with nutrients. Did I mention, they’re also perfect for packing in your golf bag?

Nutritional Benefits

  1. Rich in zinc to strengthen the immune system.

    Pumpkin seeds super packed with nutrients
    Pumpkin seeds are super packed with nutrients
  2. Excellent for prostate health and hormone balance.
  3. Boosts reproductive health, fertility and sex drive.
  4. Packed with 10 grams of protein per 1/4 cup of pumpkin seeds.
  5. Contains anti-inflammatory omega-3s.
  6. Abundant in antioxidants that reduce inflammation throughout the body and help prevent cancer.
  7. Good source of magnesium to promote heart and nervous system health.
  8. Great balance of nutrients that reduce cravings and support blood sugar levels (anti-diabetic).
  9. Filled with fiber that aids detoxification, especially of the brain (prevent Alzheimer’s).
  10. Decent source of tryptophan that improves sleep, elevates mood and increasesbrain function.
  11. Supports healthy hair and stops hair loss.
  12. Helps kills parasites and support digestive health.

How to Enjoy Pumpkin Seeds

Best enjoyed raw, toasted, roasted or dehydrated, pumpkin seeds are delicious enjoyed by the handful, sprinkled on steel cut oatmeal for breakfast, added to a protein shake or green drink for a snack, tossed into salads for lunch, or mixed into baked goods for dessert.

Quickly Toasted Sweet and Spicy Pepitas

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  • 1 pound raw pumpkin seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoons maple syrup

Instructions

  • Preheat a large skillet over medium heat. Add oil and swirl to coat the skillet. Add pepitas and sauté until golden brown, about 3 minutes.
  • Stir in cayenne, cinnamon and maple syrup. Transfer to a large bowl and let cool before enjoying.
  • Once completely cooled, store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 year.

 

Cate Ritter - Director of Nutrition MTT PerformanceCate Ritter runs THE LEAN 18 Nutrition program at MTT Performance, A Golf Channel Academy located in Pebble Beach, CA. With a successful career as a top junior and collegiate golfer, Cate knows the importance of nutrition when it comes to having a competitive edge on the course. Cate’s work has been featured on ABC15 News, U.S. News and World Report, Wall Street Journal, Golf Digest, GolfWRX, Golf Tips, Golf Today Northwest, PopGolf Mexico, GolfPunk UK, and The Arizona Republic.

Keywords:  golf healthy lifestyle, pumpkin seeds, 12 reasons

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