Pumpkin Seed Oil Nutritional Properties

Here are 4 important nutritional elements in pumpkin seed oil and whether you should choose roasted Styrian or the cold pressed oil.

Also ahead, when to take it, potential side effects and the best daily dose of pumpkin seed oil for maximum benefit.

Nutritional Properties of Pumpkin Seed Oil

Cold pressed oil from pumpkin seeds is a highly nutritious superfood with many beneficial effects. Here are the 4 specific nutrients in the oil that make it so good for you.

1. Delta-7-Sterine

Delta-7-sterine is a compound found in pumpkin oil that is particularly good for men concerned with hair loss and maintaining a healthy prostate.

High levels of DHT are a significant factor in both an enlarged prostate gland and male pattern baldness.

Delta-7-sterine is a mild steroid that competes with DHT in the body and attaches to the same receptor sites.

Many men have reported positive results with regular use of pumpkin seed oil, like this great tasting one, to prevent hair loss and ease prostate problems.

2. Beta-Sitosterol

Phytosterols are plant sterols that interfere with cholesterol absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. Eating foods high in phytosterols helps reduce LDL cholesterol levels over time.

There are many types of phytosterols but one called beta-sitosterol is particularly beneficial for men and pumpkin seed oil is an excellent source.

Beta-sitosterol inhibits the 5-alpha reductase enzyme that converts testosterone into DHT.

Most men, especially those experiencing hair loss or prostate problems, would benefit from less DHT in their bodies and more testosterone.

Snacking on pumpkin seeds, or regularly taking a dose of pumpkin seed oil, is a simple way to get more DHT-blocking beta-sitosterol into your diet.

3. Beneficial Fatty Acids

The oleic acid in this culinary oil has been shown to help lower levels of LDL cholesterol (the bad kind) and increase HDL levels (the good type).

A good intake of omega-9 oleic acid in your diet may help prevent common circulatory problems. Avocado oil is an even more concentrated source of this heart healthy fat.

4. Vitamin E & K

Cold pressed pumpkin oil, like this one I take regularly, is high in vitamin E, especially the gamma-tocopherol form, which is a strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.

It is also a source of vitamin K for regulating calcium metabolism and beta-carotene for vitamin A and more antioxidant protection.