Nutritious food: pumpkin seed

Pumpkin is not good only for Halloween or Pumpkin pie. Well, the main portion of it may be, but certainly not the seeds. In its raw format, it's an excellent source of protein, magnesium, manganese, phosphorous and other minerals extremely important for maintaining a balanced and healthy diet. Carotenoids and Omega-3 fats found in the seeds also have health benefits. Ongoing studies are trying to prove how these seeds can help maintaining a healthy prostate. It might also be good to keep stronger bones in old age (particularly for men) and as an anti-Inflammatory for people with arthritis. Finally, some compounds in the pumpkin seeds may help in controlling or lowering cholesterol levels.

They are delicious on their own as a snack, but can also be mixed with salads, rice or other dishes. Just don't cook the seeds, or they may lose some or all of their important nutrients.