By Andrea Hargraves 
Einstein Agency – Pumpkin seed flour, when eaten as part of a healthy diet, can help lower blood sugar levels, in addition to improving lipid profile, as shown in a new study conducted at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ). The article was published in International Journal of Cardiovascular SciencesJournal of the Brazilian Society of Cardiology.
For three months, researchers followed a group of 100 obese women on a low-calorie diet. They were divided into two groups: half received a sachet containing 20 grams of pumpkin seed flour daily to consume during meals, while the others received a small packet containing a placebo.
All volunteers underwent assessment once a month to collect data, including body composition, waist-to-hip ratio, blood glucose levels, cholesterol, triglycerides, blood pressure, and more.
At the end of the period, all participants lost weight. However, those who included pumpkin seed flour as part of their diet showed a greater reduction in neck circumference, a greater loss of body fat and a reduction in triglyceride and insulin levels. Furthermore, there was an improvement in the assessment of insulin resistance, indicating a Beneficial effect on the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
“Pumpkin seed flour is rich in fiber and essential fatty acids that help you lose weight and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease,” says cardiologist Glaucia María Moraes de Oliveira, one of the authors of this research. According to nutritionist Fabiana Fiosa Teixeira, from the Israeli Albert Einstein Hospital, the ingredient also contains antioxidant vitamins that control hunger and satiety, in addition to providing cardiovascular protection.
“Therefore, the consumption of seed flour, such as pumpkin, can be a partner in the diet for weight reduction, control of glycemic indicators and fat absorption,” says the Einstein nutritionist.
To enjoy the benefits of these nutrients, Just add two tablespoons of this flour to your daily menu, such as salads or fruits.
You can find it in stores or even prepare it at home, drying it in the oven (without roasting it) and then grinding it in a blender. “The seeds are usually considered garbage, but they can be part of a healthy diet and have a taste reminiscent of peanuts,” explains the UFRJ cardiologist.
He adds: “To combat obesity and its associated diseases, it is necessary to follow a healthy diet, with a minimum of ultra-processed foods, and combine it with physical activity. There is no magic.”
Increase in industrial
Another study by the same team, which was conducted on nearly 500 overweight women, revealed an increase in the consumption of ultra-processed foods after the pandemic. Those who actually developed diseases associated with this disease were those who consumed these industrial products the most, accounting for 60% of the total daily energy.
“A diet rich in fruits, vegetables and legumes, increasing consumption of dietary fiber and micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals, reducing daily calories and lifestyle changes are essential for controlling and losing weight and improving other health conditions associated with chronic diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure,” he explains. Nutritionist Einstein.