Americans like pills
Author/grower Jay Gilbertson just standing around in a field of pumpkins.
In the US, the most likely way that you’ll encounter pumpkin seed oil is as a dietary supplement in gelatin capsules. Usually these pills are promoted for both bladder and prostate health and there is research indicating that they may be of benefit. Buyer beware, but here are the results of a
Google search search for pumpkin seed oil, bladder and prostate.
We’ve got a better idea !
Look how healthy they are. Rolling out bales of hay that will serve as mulch for the plants.
This stuff tastes great. So why oh why, instead of putting it in a capsule, why not just incorporate it into you diet? Find some way that a couple of times a week you ingest a teaspoon or so of pumpkin seed oil. It is cheaper and you get to enjoy the great taste.
Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Everything is done by hand. The lovely Kris Chew harvesting pumpkin seeds in the field.
Pumpkin seed oil has an excellent ratio of those Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. Often flax and hemp oils are rated as the best with pumpkin seed also offering a great source of these valuable plant fats important for cellular function and many of the systems in the body. Basically keeps your coat glossy, skin clear and a puts a spring in your step.
All Hail Zeaxanthin
An ancient Mayan goddess responsible for bank accounts…NOT! Actually a specific beta-carotene that has been the subject of much cutting edge nutritional research with a wide variety of benefits, especially health of the macula in the eye. In the October 2006 issue of the Journal of the American Oil Chemists Society, a study by the University of Maryland reported on some of the benefits of plant seed oils. Guess who’s pumpkin seed oil was used? Yup, none other than Hay River.
The Study
This is not light reading but see for yourself the University of Maryland study that documented the levels of important nutrients and potential benefits of pumpkin seed oil
here.
Pumpkin seed oil and eye health
Many people are now familiar with the benefits of lutein in helping to prevent macular degeneration. The newest studies are now also showing that zeaxanthin is even more important for eye health. Pumpkin seed oil is one of the richest sources of this valuable nutrient. When you get your bottle you’ll notice a beautiful deep red color. That color comes from the lipid (fat) based antioxidants. The red color is good for your health, is responsible for the great taste and is, well, just cool.
So.
This shouldn’t be shocking news but guess what? If you eat good quality foods and on a regular basis incorporate healthy things like pumpkin seed oil and a wide variety of colorful fruits and vegetables, you are going to be healthier. Do it!