Are you wondering whether it is possible for any natural prevention for cancer to exist? Recent research has proven that there is considerable hope in looking at pumpkin seeds as a possible solution to the problem that has rocked humanity for many decades for which we have not been able to find any concrete solutions.

It is surprising to know the number of health benefits that Pumpkin Seeds can offer considering its nutrient value. Due to the increased magnesium content, there are very helpful to the cardiovascular system. They also contain nutrients and chemicals that aid brain functions and relieve stress and depression.

How does it work?

The feature of Pumpkin Seeds that has made it become part of cancer research is the fact that they contain many phenolic compounds. Phenols are effective antioxidants that help destroy free radicals and their impacts on the human body.

With increasing age and cell function, there is increased production of free radicals. These are molecules that are formed as a by product of cellular metabolism. At the same time, they cause oxidative damage to cells as they are oxidized within the body. This in turn causes age related symptoms and has also found to be the condition that ultimately leads to cancer in many people. In those with cancer, this oxidative damage occurs at a much greater pace wherein repair is not possible at the same rate. In addition, the affected cells proliferate fast, causing greater stress and damage to surrounding cells which causes the infection to spread also.

The phenols present in Pumpkin Seeds inhibit these free radicals from causing harmful oxidative stress.

Prostate cancer prevention

Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that affects the prostate and is very common in men. Pumpkin seeds inhibit the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is known to cause enlargement of the prostate gland and lead to cancer.

Breast cancer prevention

When it comes to breast cancer, studies have indicated that pumpkin seed consumption significantly improves breast health. Also, other studies have indicated that ligans present in pumpkin seeds offer further support to maintain breast health.

Pumpkin seeds are also rich in dietary fibre that reduces risk of cancer. A study has proven that those who had higher dietary fibre intake had eleven percent reduced risk of cancer incidence.

Pumpkin Seeds are rich in phytoestrogens that help women in regulating hormonal imbalances and prevent breast cancer. Breast cancer has found to be associated with hormonal imbalance and reduced oestrogen levels in women. The phytoestrogens in pumpkin seeds mimic natural oestrogen and hence restore the oestrogen functions in the body.

Oral cancer

Pumpkin seeds contain Beta carotene which is converted into Vitamin A in the body. Pumpkin seeds are one of the richest sources of Beta carotene, containing about 17 mg per cup of pumpkin seeds. Vitamin A in reality is an antioxidant which acts against free radicals in the body. This helps in preventing oral cancer too.

Lutein and lycopene are other antioxidant carotenoids present in pumpkin seeds adding to the orange colour of the fruit.

Pumpkin Seeds are also rich in Vitamin E that prevents cancer cell proliferation and boosts immunity.

Finally, pumpkin seeds are a low-calorie diet which helps prevent obesity. Obesity is also one of the leading causes of cancer.

Extensive research is yet to be undertaken to establish whether pumpkin seeds can be used in cancer treatment. However, there is considerable evidence to state that pumpkin seeds can help prevent cancer. Taking pumpkin seeds and related nutritional supplements have had positive effects in those with breast and prostate cancer.

Hence, for both men and women, Pumpkin Seeds offer a possible prevention measure for the most commonly incident cancer types.

The best way to consume pumpkin seeds is to take it with cereals and regular diet. It can be added to muesli and taken with Soy and almonds to enhance health benefits.

To know more about health benefits of pumpkin seeds, click here.