An Overview of GNC's Pumpkin Seed Oil
With its rich supply of vitamins, minerals and nutrients, pumpkin seed oil has become a popular supplement choice for supporting various aspects of health. GNC is one of the many retailers now offering pumpkin seed oil due to rising consumer demand. But what exactly makes this oil so beneficial?
Pumpkin Seed Oil Nutrition
Pumpkin seed oil is packed with healthy fats, antioxidants, and compounds that provide its nutritional value. Some of its top nutrients include:
- Healthy Fats - Rich in omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids to balance cholesterol, blood pressure, inflammation, and more.
- Vitamin E - A potent antioxidant that nourishes skin and may protect against UV damage.
- Phytosterols - Plant compounds that optimize cholesterol levels and heart health.
- Zinc - Supports prostate health, fertility, immune function, hair growth and testosterone levels.
This unique nutrient profile is responsible for pumpkin seed oils wide range of research-backed health benefits.
5 Key Health Benefits
Here are 5 of the top researched ways that pumpkin seed oil may optimize health when incorporated into your routine:
1. Hair Growth
Pumpkin seed oil is often touted as a natural solution for battling hair loss and thinning by blocking DHT hormone production. DHT contributes to accelerated shedding by damaging and shriveling hair follicles.
The oil also contains fatty acids that nourish scalp health plus zinc which facilitates healthy follicle cell turnover. Using just a few drops daily can improve growth factors for thicker, faster growing hair.
2. Heart Health
With its bounty of fatty acids, vitamin E, zinc and phytosterols, adding pumpkin seed oil to your diet protects cardiovascular health on multiple fronts by:
- Balancing cholesterol & triglyceride levels
- Lowering high blood pressure
- Reducing arterial plaque buildup
- Discouraging blood clots & stroke risk
Research also shows the lignans in pumpkin seed oil exhibit anti-inflammatory activity to further diminish heart disease factors.
3. Reduced Inflammation
Chronic inflammation can quietly undermine health and lie at the root of many diseases. Thankfully, studies reveal pumpkin seed oil has natural anti-inflammatory capacities.
Its able to inhibit activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes like cyclooxygenase plus decrease disease-aggravating cytokines. Nutrients like omega fatty acids, zinc, and vitamin E contribute these inflammation-lowering effects throughout the body.
4. Prostate & Urinary Health
Pumpkin seed oil is particularly revered for supporting male reproductive health. Research indicates the zinc, fatty acids and plant sterols inhibit testosterone from converting to DHT hormone which causes prostate enlargement.
These nutrients also relax bladder muscles to relieve urinary urgency, frequency and nighttime trips to the bathroom. Pumpkin seed oil can aid healthy prostate cell division as well.
5. Fertility Factor
For couples trying to conceive, pumpkin seed oil warrants consideration. In addition to enhancing reproductive function for men as mentioned, animal research reveals it boosts ovulation and follicle health in females.
It also increases testosterone, follicle stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone levels which can raise fertility odds. The rich antioxidant content provides cellular protection too.
Choosing Your Pumpkin Seed Oil
If you want to leverage pumpkin seed oils wealth of benefits, quality is key. Follow these buying tips when selecting your oil:
Cold-Pressed & Unrefined
Extraction method significantly affects oil quality. Cold pressing without heat or chemical solvents preserves more nutrients vs standard hot expeller pressing. Choosing cold-pressed, unrefined oil ensures maximum retention of all health enhancing compounds.
Organic & Non-GMO
Source your oil from organically raised, non-GMO pumpkin seeds free of pesticides and other contaminants. This guarantees higher purity so more vitamins, minerals and antioxidants make it into your oil for amplified effects.
Dark Glass Bottling
Look for pumpkin seed oils sold in dark colored glass bottles instead of plastic. The UV light protection preserves integrity of the delicate fatty acids to prevent oxidation, rancidity, and nutrient deterioration over time.
Freshness Dating
Always check manufacturing dates when buying oils. The most recent production batches deliver the highest quality and potency. Pumpkin seed oil stays freshest for about 12-24 months when properly stored.
Using Pumpkin Seed Oil
Oil Pulling
Start your day with an oil pulling ritual. Place 1 tsp of pumpkin seed oil in your mouth, swish it around for 10-20 minutes before spitting out. This practice pulls toxins from the body, reduces oral bacteria, and supports glowing skin.
Salad Dressings
Drizzle pumpkin seed oil over salads instead of unhealthy vegetable oils for a nutritious, antioxidant-rich kick. It pairs deliciously with leafy greens, vegetables, beans, nuts and seeds.
Yogurt & Granola
Stir a teaspoon or two of pumpkin seed oil into plain yogurt or cottage cheese. Then top your creamy bowl with crunchy granola and fruit for a balanced breakfast, snack, or dessert.
Smoothies
Add a tablespoon of pumpkin seed oil into your next smoothie creation. The mild nutty flavor blends perfectly with fruits, veggies, nut butters, protein powders and more for a fiber and healthy fat fueled treat.
DIY Hair Serum
Combat hair thinning by mixing pumpkin seed oil with essential oils like peppermint, rosemary and lavender. Apply this nourishing serum to your scalp and massage it in. Wrap hair and let sit for 30 minutes before shampooing.
Skin Moisturizer
The vitamin E and fatty acids in pumpkin seed oil hydrate and soften skin wonderfully. Use it straight or combine with your favorite lotion. It absorbs quickly without greasiness and may help defend against UV radiation too.
The Bottom Line on Pumpkin Seed Oil
With its stellar nutritional profile and research-backed health effects, pumpkin seed oil deserves a permanent place in any wellness routine. Choose high quality cold-pressed oils and use liberally in food, DIY body care products and more.
GNC makes it convenient to add this superstar oil into your life. Browse their site today to find pumpkin seed oils from reputable brands meeting the above quality benchmarks so you can unlock all the benefits!
FAQs
How should pumpkin seed oil be stored?
Store pumpkin seed oil in a cool, dark place like a kitchen cabinet away from light, heat and humidity to maintain optimal freshness and prevent nutrient deterioration. Refrigeration can extend shelf life too.
What's the best way to use pumpkin seed oil for hair?
Mix pumpkin seed oil with essential oils like rosemary, lavender and peppermint to make a nourishing scalp serum. Apply it directly and massage in, then wrap hair in a towel for 30 mins before washing as usual. Using a few drops daily can boost growth.
Does pumpkin seed oil lower testosterone?
No, research actually indicates pumpkin seed oil helps increase testosterone levels in males by inhibiting conversion of testosterone into DHT hormone. It also optimizes reproductive organ health to support natural testosterone production.
Can taking pumpkin seed oil cause side effects?
Pumpkin seed oil is generally very well tolerated with no common side effects. However those with nut allergies could experience reactions. Start with small doses and discontinue use if any discomfort occurs when taking pumpkin seed oil supplements.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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