Does Eating Pumpkin Help You Sleep Better?

It’s that season again. Fall means pumpkin everything — pumpkin pie, pumpkin picking, pumpkin carving, pumpkin seeds, pumpkin decor, and don't forget pumpkin spice! Some love it, some hate it. But did you know that pumpkin intake can actually benefit your sleep?

That’s right, ladies and gentlemen. There are health benefits to overindulging in the odd delicacy that is pumpkin. According to this Dr. Oz article, pumpkin seeds, and the powder from pumpkin seeds, have relatively high amounts tryptophan and Zinc. Tryptophan is the amino acid that the body uses to make serotonin, and zinc helps the brain convert the tryptophan.

Serotonin helps the body not only relax to fall asleep, but also stay in the deep sleep you require to be well rested. If you are experiencing low levels or serotonin, you most likely won’t be able to stay asleep throughout the night. One cut of pumpkin seeds, or about a half cup of pumpkin seed powder mixed into a healthy carbohydrate, allows the brain to have higher tryptophan amounts.

Pumpkin has other health benefits besides just increases your deep sleep. It can also lower blood pressure, boost your vision, and help you have a healthier heart. Pumpkin also contains 1.7 grams of dietary fiber per ounce, allowing you to feel fuller while eating less.

There are so many health benefits to eating pumpkin, so enjoy it this fall season! Who knew pumpkins were good for more than just decorations?

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Do you find sleeping tricky during the holiday season? You're not alone! Check out our blog post Sleep and the Holidays.

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