If you're over 40, you're probably already experiencing perimenopause. Let's face it, ladies, this stage of life can be a doozy. Hot flashes hotter than a dragon's breath, mood swings wilder than a rodeo clown on roller skates, and the undeniable urge to live in our PJs forever. But fear not, fellow comfort connoisseurs! Science has a secret weapon in its arsenal, and it comes sprinkled on your pumpkin spice latte (hold the latte, please).
Enter the humble pumpkin seed! These tiny titans, bursting with plant-based estrogen mimickers called phytoestrogens, might be your new best friend. A recent study (think of it as the ultimate pajama party with beakers and lab coats) pitted pumpkin seeds against their oily cousins. The result? Pumpkin seeds stole the show, lowering blood pressure by a cool 3%!1 That's enough to make even the sleepiest PJ Buddy sit up and take notice.
But wait, there's more! While not statistically significant (think inconclusive, not boring!), the seeds even hinted at improving blood vessel function, showing they're more than just crunchy snacks.1,2 So, whether you're a seed champion or an oil enthusiast, there's good news in your future (and hopefully, in your comfy sweats).
Now, because we know you wouldn't be caught dead reading something without a delicious recipe, we've concocted the "PJ Power Potion," a coffee alternative packed with pumpkin seed power (plus sesame seeds and mung beans for an extra health kick). Think of it as a magic elixir for your inner well-being warrior brewed right in your pajamas!
So, ditch the self-pity party, blend up this potion, and embrace the vibrant tapestry of menopause! Remember, PJ Buddies, it's not the end; it's a new beginning - and it's going to be epic, even if it's epic from the comfort of your couch.
PJ Power Potion Recipe:
· 1 cup brewed coffee (or herbal coffee substitute)
· 1 tablespoon pumpkin seeds
· 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
· 1 tablespoon mung beans (soaked and drained)
· 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
· 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
· Stevia or monk fruit sweetener to taste
Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
Brew your coffee (or herbal alternative) and get ready to unleash your inner blender ninja.
Toss all ingredients (except sweetener and ice) into your blender and let it work its magic until smooth and creamy.
Strain like a boss to remove any unwanted bits.
Sweeten to your heart's content (remember, diabetes-friendly!).
Add ice for a chilly treat, pour into your favorite mug, and conquer your day (or at least conquer that Netflix queue)!
Remember, PJ Buddies, with every sip, you're not just drinking a delicious beverage; you're reclaiming your health and embracing the power of your journey. Now go forth and slay menopause! (Even if your weapon of choice is a remote control).
References
1. Maiya M. Effect of supplementation with pumpkin seed oil versus pumpkin seeds on blood pressure and menopausal symptoms in non-hypertensive postmenopausal women. TWU. Published online December 1, 2017. Accessed February 23, 2024. https://twu-ir.tdl.org/items/839a4eb3-7fd9-4aab-8241-51ccfcf22b4f
2. Wong A, Viola D, Bergen D, Caulfield E, Mehrabani J, Figueroa A. The effects of pumpkin seed oil supplementation on arterial hemodynamics, stiffness and cardiac autonomic function in postmenopausal women. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2019 Nov;37:23-26. doi: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2019.08.003.