Did you know what you do in the morning sets the tone for the rest of the day? So why not start with healthy habits, such as drinking pumpkin seed water? This simple practice can work wonders for your health, ranging its benefits from promoting digestion to enhancing bladder health. We spoke to Dr Ekta Singhwal, MSc Dietician, Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals, who listed the benefits of consuming pumpkin seed water on an empty stomach.
“Pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas, are nutritional powerhouses packed with essential nutrients. They are abundant in fibre, vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, and protein. Just a small serving of pumpkin seeds can provide a significant portion of your daily requirements for nutrients like magnesium, zinc, and iron”, said Dr Singhwal.
Health Benefits Of Pumpkin Seed Water On An Empty Stomach
Aids In Digestion
One of the most effective advantages of drinking pumpkin seed water on an empty stomach is its potential to support digestive health. Dr Singhwal added, “Pumpkin seeds are a good source of dietary fibre, which plays a crucial role in promoting regularity and supporting a healthy digestive system. Drinking pumpkin seed water in the morning can help kick-start your digestion and ensure optimal nutrient absorption all day long.”
Nutrient Absorption
“Pumpkin seed water may also enhance the body's ability to absorb essential nutrients from the foods we eat. The soaking process helps release nutrients from the seeds, making them more bioavailable to the body”, said Dr Singhwal. This means that by drinking pumpkin seed water, you could potentially increase your uptake of vital nutrients like magnesium, which is involved in hundreds of biochemical reactions in the body.
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Heart Health
The nutritional profile of pumpkin seeds also makes them a heart-healthy choice. They are an excellent source of unsaturated fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and their ability to support cardiovascular health. By adding pumpkin seed water into your daily routine, you may help lower cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and support overall heart function.
Immune Support
Regularly drinking pumpkin seed water can boost your immune system and strengthen your body's defences against illness and infection. Dr Singhwal added, “This is because pumpkin seeds are rich in antioxidants like vitamin E and carotenoids, which help combat oxidative stress and protect the body against cellular damage caused by free radicals.”
Bladder Health
Pumpkin seeds are rich in compounds like phytoestrogens and antioxidants, which have been studied for their potential to support bladder function and alleviate symptoms of urinary disorders. Drinking pumpkin seed water regularly may help maintain a healthy urinary tract and reduce the risk of certain bladder-related issues.
According to a study conducted by the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine with 45 individuals with hyperactive bladders, it was found that daily use of 10 g of pumpkin seed oil extract enhanced urine function.
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How to Make Pumpkin Seed Water
Ingredients
- Pumpkin Seeds
- Water
- Container
Instructions
- Place a handful of pumpkin seeds in a glass jar or pitcher.
- Cover the seeds with filtered water and let them soak overnight or for at least 6-8 hours.
- In the morning, strain the water to remove the seeds and discard them.
- Drink the infused water on an empty stomach to reap the potential health benefits.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by a registered healthcare professional and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your expert before adding anything to your diet, especially if you are dealing with any health issues.]