The Many Health Benefits of Pumpkin Seeds for Dancers

September 24, 2014

This story originally appeared in the October/November 2014 issue of Pointe.

This fall, head to the pumpkin patch to score a nutritious snack. Pumpkin seeds are perfect for roasting, and they’re packed with magnesium, which plays a role in energy production and bone development, and fiber, which keeps you full, making them a great choice to nosh on midday. Pumpkins are in season into November, so there is plenty of time to get creative.

When you eat one cup of roasted pumpkin seeds throughout the day, you’re well on your way to hitting the daily values of a variety of nutrients. Here’s what you’ll get in one cup:

Magnesium: 162% of Daily Value

Protein: 70% of Daily Value

Iron: 52% of Daily Value

Fiber: 32% of Daily Value

Potassium: 26% of Daily Value

Here’s how to add them to your diet any time of day.

Breakfast

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Mix in with oatmeal.

Lunch

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Toss in a salad with dried cranberries.

Snack

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Grab a handful plain or add to homemade trail mix.

Dinner

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Sprinkle on top of squash soup.