Pumpkin Seeds also called Pepitas, have been used in North America for centuries as food and medicine. Each year we carve up our pumpkins but how many of us roast the seeds? They make such a good snack and are so healthy!
Since pumpkins are gourds they have components which can aid in prostate, urinary tract health, brain function, and may help to prevent some cancers.
Pepitas are also packed full of nutrients such as zinc, phosporous, some iron, manganese and magnesium, which can help keep the skin healthy, make hair grow better and stronger.
They also contain tryptophan, Omega 3 fats, amino acids and vitamin K. Omega 3 fats are vital to the health of cell membranes and are beneficial in helping to protect us from possible major threats to our health.
Roasted Pumpkin Seeds are delicious BUT, in order to keep their essential oils intact it is best to roast them at low temperatures.
Recipe:
Seeds from a pumpkin (de-slimed, rinsed and patted dry) 1-2 tsp Kosher salt 1-2 tbsp canola or olive oil large zip-lock bag cookie sheet tin foil* (optional)
- Put clean pumpkin seeds into a large Ziplock bag.
- Pour oil into the bag and seal shut - Shake the bag till all the seeds are coated
- Spread the seeds onto a cookie sheet (I cover mine in tinfoil for easier clean up and to help keep the seeds from burning)
- Sprinkle with the Kosher salt (I like Kosher salt because it tastes so good) 5. Put in oven and roast at: 165 degrees for 15-20 minutes for the healthiest version 400 degrees for 8 - 10 minutes for the less health-filled but crunchy yummy version.
*many people feel that cooking food with aluminum foil is unhealthy
Source:
Some may consider kosher food restrictions and requirements to be helpful in a diet's effectiveness. Limitations and boundaries are part of almost every reduction plan. On the other hand, others may find weight loss more effective without limitations regarding what may or may not be eaten. If there are no limits on the types of foods allowed, some find it easier to tailor a program that fits individual tastes. Happy dieters are typically more successful dieters.
An understanding of what kosher is will be helpful in determining if it is effective or non-effective in losing weight. Kosher means "fit or proper for use." This not only details what foods are allowed, but also characterizes how certain foods must be prepared and eaten.
All diet programs' effectiveness is relative to each individual. However, there are some things in a kosher-based program that may improve the success of those who follow its standards:
o Some foods are not allowed. In Jewish dietary laws these foods are referred to as "treif." Examples include pork and shellfish.
o Some of the most fattening foods-those that are processed-may not be obviously kosher, as the designation includes food preparation. For that reason, these diet-busting foods may be avoided altogether. Processed foods that are kosher often show a certification symbol.
o Similarly, when eating out it may not be obvious whether restaurant foods are kosher or not.
o Eating only kosher foods can elevate meals to a more spiritual experience for some. Instead of mindlessly gorging on foods for taste alone, a kosher diet may encourage deliberate thoughtfulness at meal times. Eating slowly is often an effective reduction method.
o Healthful and part of almost any successful weight reduction, all fruits and vegetables are kosher!
"Keeping kosher" is worth learning about and understanding. After all, knowledge about food may be the most effective tool in any weight loss program.
Source:
