Pumpkin Seeds: Our SUPERFOOD Ingredients

Pumpkin seeds pack a nutritional punch. Also known as pepitas, these seemingly simple seeds are high in many nutrients and contain a substantial amount of protein. They are an excellent source of magnesium, which is an important mineral for blood pressure regulation, protein synthesis, stress reduction, and the function of nerves, bones and muscles. It’s also a mineral that most people do not get enough of.

What’s Found in Powerful Pumpkin Seeds?

Another benefit of pumpkin seeds is found in their tryptophan. Tryptophan is an amino acid that converts to both niacin and serotonin, a mood-boosting neurotransmitter. Serotonin also converts into melatonin, which is the “sleep hormone.” Additionally, they are a good source of glutamate, which is needed for the synthesis of gamma-Aminobutyric acid (GABA), an important neurotransmitter for regulating behavior, cognition and stress.

Pumpkin seeds are also used in many cultures as an anti-microbial, anti-viral and anti-parasitic food. They contain antioxidant phytonutrients called lignans, including lariciresinol, medioresinol and pinoresinol, which have this functionality. Lignans are also helpful with hormone regulation, cholesterol management, the cardiovascular system, hair growth, diabetes and the immune system. They help reduce estrogen levels.

Based on these important characteristics, it is not surprising to find pumpkin seeds celebrated by cultures such as the Aztec, Eastern European and Mediterranean. They contain a diverse array of antioxidants and the following nutrients:

• Iron
• Copper and zinc
• Phytosterols (help increase good cholesterol and lower bad cholesterol)
• Potassium
• Fiber
• Phosphorus
• Selenium
• Vitamins B, C, K and E (five forms of vitamin E)
• Manganese
• Chlorophyll
• Phenolic antioxidants (caffeic, coumaric, ferulic, hydroxybenzoic,  protocatechuic, sinapic, syringic  and vanillic acid)

Pumpkin seeds are just one of the many SUPERFOOD ingredients found in B.O.S.S. Bar™. These raw SUPERFOOD snack bars use only premium ingredients and are designed for your day. Learn more and shop here.