Health Benefits Of Sunflower Seeds!

Sunflower seeds are actually considered good for health because of its nutritional value. 

Benefits Sunflower seeds are rich in the B complex vitamins, which are essential for a healthy nervous system, and are a good source of phosphorus, magnesium, iron, calcium, potassium, protein and vitamin E. They also contain trace minerals, zinc, manganese, copper, chromium and carotene as well as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids - types of 'good' fat that may help to protect the arteries. Try them High in protein and low in carbohydrates, sunflower seeds make the ideal pick-me-up tasty snack.

Sunflower Seeds: Health Benefits

 Lowers Cholesterol

Sunflowers seeds have been ranked at the top of the nuts and seeds list for their high content of phytosterols or cholesterol-lowering compounds. These seeds are loaded with monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are good fats that lower bad cholesterol. Besides, they are rich in fiber that contributes to lowering cholesterol in some people.

Supports Digestion

Due to their high content of dietary fiber, raw seeds of sunflower can aid in digesting food and even cure constipation.

Prevents Cancer

Sunflower seeds have a high content of vitamin E, selenium, and copper that have antioxidant properties. As per research, these antioxidants prevent cellular damage that often leads to cancer. These nutrients prevent cancer by reducing and suppressing cellular damage from oxidants and protecting tissue from oxidant-free radical damage. Sunflower seeds can reduce the risk of certain types of cancer due to their high phytosterol content. They also contain a compound called lignans, which also protects against certain types of cancer. These naturally occurring compounds can inhibit the growth of cancer cells, thus preventing colon, prostate and breast cancer.

Anti-inflammatory Properties

Vitamin E in sunflower seeds is the body’s primary fat-soluble antioxidant. This vitamin travels throughout the body neutralizing free radicals that would otherwise damage fat-containing structures and molecules like cell membranes, brain cells, and cholesterol. Thus, vitamin E exhibits significant anti-inflammatory effects, resulting in the reduction of diseases caused by free radicals and inflammation such as asthma, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Controls High Blood Pressure

Sunflower seeds also have high amounts of potassium which helps to counterbalance the effect of sodium in your blood and lowers blood pressure, thus reducing the risk of developing hypertension.

Glowing Skin

Sunflower seeds are a rich source of vitamin E. This vitamin helps protect your skin from harmful UV rays and give a glowing skin.

Prevents Hair Loss

Sunflower seeds also contain vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) which is not only crucial for the absorption of zinc but also has some hair loss preventing properties. These properties can be attributed to the ability of vitamin B6 to boost oxygen supply to the scalp. They are also the best dietary sources of copper which are involved in melanin formation. This pigment is responsible for imparting color to your hair.

Ways to Use Sunflower Seeds

• Add them to Bread
• Sprinkle them on Baked Goods, soup, salad, burger, noodles
• Add them to Vegetables