Effect of Pumpkin Seed Oil or Pumpkin Seeds on Blood Pressure and Menopausal Symptoms in Postmenopausal Women

Effect of Supplementation With Pumpkin Seed Oil Versus Pumpkin Seeds on Blood Pressure and Menopausal Symptoms in Non-hypertensive Postmenopausal Women

The purpose of this randomized control trial is to compare the effect of pumpkin seed oil 2g/day with pumpkin seeds given as a dose of 1½ teaspoons/ 4.1 grams a day to provide 2g of lipid (equivalent to 2 grams of oil) on BP (systolic and diastolic), endothelial function, serum lipids, C-reactive protein (CRP) concentrations, and menopausal symptoms in postmenopausal women.

At the onset of menopause CVD rates increase in women. A beneficial effect of pumpkin seed oil on blood pressure has been observed in postmenopausal women. More than 1 in 3 female adults have some form of cardiovascular disease (CVD), which is affected by blood pressure.

Pumpkin seed is a good source of phytoestrogens. Phytoestrogens are compounds found in plants and are comparable to human estrogen, capable of producing estrogenic effects. Studies in post menopausal women have demonstrated that pumpkin seed oil, at a dose of 2g per day for 12 weeks can decrease blood pressure and reduce menopausal symptoms.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Non-hypertensive with blood pressure less than140/90 mmHg
• Post menopausal women or had a bilateral oophorectomy

Exclusion Criteria:

• Hypotensive women with BP <90/60
• Taking medications to manage blood pressure and blood lipids
• Taking estrogen supplements or on hormone replacement therapy
• Taking pumpkin seed oil supplements
• Consuming pumpkin seeds more than ¼ cup a month
• Diagnosed with depression and taking antidepressants