Pumpkin Seeds

🎃 What Are Pumpkin Seeds?
Pumpkin seeds, also called pepitas, are flat, green seeds found inside pumpkins. They are nutrient-dense and commonly eaten raw, roasted, or added to dishes for flavor and crunch.

🤔 Why Might a Sensitivity to Pumpkin Seeds Occur but Not Pumpkin?

Pumpkin seeds and pumpkin flesh have different biological components, which may explain why one is tolerated and the other is not:

Protein Composition:
Pumpkin seeds contain unique seed proteins—such as oleosins—that are not present in pumpkin flesh.

Fat Content:
Pumpkin seeds are naturally high in healthy fats like linoleic and oleic acid, which may be harder to digest if your system struggles with fat processing.

Fiber Differences:
Seeds contain insoluble fiber, which may irritate sensitive digestive systems. Pumpkin flesh contains softer, soluble fiber that is typically easier to tolerate.

Processing Impact:
Roasting, seasoning, or flavoring pumpkin seeds can change their structure or add compounds that may increase sensitivity.

Exposure Differences:
Pumpkin seeds are often consumed more frequently or in higher concentration, which may contribute to sensitivity, whereas pumpkin flesh is typically eaten less often.

🛠️ What May Help?

• Avoid pumpkin seeds and products containing them (granolas, trail mixes, baked goods) for 8 weeks.

• After 8 weeks, reintroduce pumpkin seeds slowly to assess tolerance.

• Read ingredient labels carefully to avoid hidden seed blends or toppings.

💊 Supportive General Supplements

Digestive Enzymes:
Support breakdown of fats and proteins found in seeds.

Probiotics:
Help maintain a balanced gut environment and may support overall digestive comfort.

L-Glutamine:
Supports the intestinal lining and overall gut integrity.

Turmeric / Curcumin:
Helps support balanced inflammatory responses in the body.

🌟 Why Might a Sensitivity to Pumpkin Seeds Occur but Not Pumpkin (Simplified Breakdown)?

• Protein Variations: Pumpkin seeds contain oleosins; pumpkin flesh does not.

• Fat Levels: Seeds have significantly more fat, which may be harder to digest.

• Fiber Type: Seeds contain insoluble fiber; pumpkin flesh contains gentler soluble fiber.

• Preparation Differences: Seeds are often roasted, salted, or flavored; pumpkin flesh is typically cooked simply.

🍽️ Popular Dishes Containing Pumpkin Seeds

• Trail mixes

• Seed-and-nut granolas

• Roasted pumpkin seed snacks

• Seed-crusted breads or crackers

🍽️ Alternatives (if tolerated)

• Sunflower seeds

• Chia seeds

• Flaxseeds

• Sesame seeds