Pumpkin Seeds and Heart Health: A Comprehensive Review of Their Role in Cardiovascular Disease Prevention and Management: Pumpkin Seeds and Heart Health

Minahil Adnan; Farah Javed; Iftikhar Younis Mallhi; Chanda Naseem; Muhammad Jawad Iqbal; Ayesha Azeem; Tehreem Nisar; Musharib Razi Kamran; Yashal Razi Kamran; Taliya Zulfiqar

doi:10.54393/pjhs.v6i4.2913

Authors

Minahil Adnan Department of Public Health, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
Farah Javed Department of Human Nutrition and Food Technology, Superior University, Lahore, Pakistan
Iftikhar Younis Mallhi School of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, Minhaj University, Lahore, Pakistan
Chanda Naseem epartment of Allied Health Science, Superior University, Lahore, Pakistan
Muhammad Jawad Iqbal School of Food Science and Technology, Minhaj University, Lahore, Pakistan
Ayesha Azeem Department of Public Health, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
Tehreem Nisar Department of Public Health, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
Musharib Razi Kamran Department of Public Health, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
Yashal Razi Kamran Department of Public Health, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
Taliya Zulfiqar Department of Public Health, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54393/pjhs.v6i4.2913

Keywords:

Pumpkin Seeds, Cardiovascular Health, Phytosterols, Antioxidants

Abstract

Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs) remain a major global health concern, with an increasing prevalence requiring urgent preventive strategies. Diet and lifestyle play a crucial role in CVD development, emphasizing the need for healthy food interventions. To explore the potential cardioprotective benefits of pumpkin seeds (Cucurbita spp.) and their bioactive compounds in promoting cardiovascular health. Relevant literature was reviewed to evaluate the macronutrient and micronutrient profile of pumpkin seeds, as well as their bioactive compounds. Study Design: A comprehensive review of the nutritional composition and functional properties of pumpkin seeds was conducted, focusing on their role in cardiovascular disease prevention. Key components, including linolenic acid, phytosterols, antioxidants, and pumpkin seed oil, were analyzed for their potential impact on cardiovascular health. Pumpkin seeds are rich in proteins, carbohydrates, and unsaturated fatty acids, along with essential micronutrients such as zinc, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, and selenium. Linolenic acid in pumpkin seeds offers protective effects against CVDs, diabetes, and certain cancers. Phytosterols contribute to lowering LDL cholesterol levels, while their strong antioxidant properties help reduce oxidative stress, lower blood pressure, and prevent arteriosclerosis. Pumpkin seed oil, rich in magnesium, enhances Nitric Oxide (NO) production, supporting vascular function and aortic protection. Given the increasing focus on plant-based diets for chronic disease prevention, regular consumption of pumpkin seeds may provide significant benefits in improving cardiovascular health. Further research and clinical trials are recommended to establish optimal dietary intake guidelines for maximizing their protective effects.

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