Protein, fiber, vitamins, mineralsthis iconic ballpark snack pretty much has it all.
Fun fact: Sunflower seeds are actuallytiny fruitsproduced from the large, dark head of the sunflower.
Sunflower seeds are also rich inplant compoundsincludingflavonoids, tocopherols, and phenolic acids.
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Heres a closer look at the nutrients found in sunflowers, per theU.S.
Department of Agriculture (USDA)database, for one ounce of dry-roasted, unsalted sunflower seed kernels.
Encourages Metabolic Health
The fiber, protein, and healthy fats found in these tasty seeds support metabolic health.
It also helps increase feelings of satiety, making it a smart snack or meal addition.
Boosts Digestive Health
Sunflower seeds definitely count as agut-healthy food.
They contain bothinsoluble and soluble fiber, both of which support digestive regularity.
Soluble fiber acts as aprebiotic, or a food source for the healthy bacteria living in your gut microbiome.
Sunflowers offer cholesterol-free protein to help build and maintain muscle, Geiger explains.
Plus, thezincandfolatein sunflower seeds are essential during pregnancy to promote healthy growth and development of the baby.
Bolsters Skin Health
The healthy fats andvitamin Ein sunflower seeds nourish glowing, healthy skin.
If you have sensitive insulin levels, adding sunflower seeds to your dietary rotation can help boost blood sugar.
Improves Bone Health
Brittle bones no more!
Snack on these seeds when you’re feeling hungry and watch yourself get stronger overtime.
Who Should Avoid Sunflower Seeds?
The health benefits associated with sunflower seeds are plentiful and enticing, certain groups may need to avoid them.
Incorporating Sunflower Seeds Into a Healthy Routine
There are so many delicious ways to use sunflower seeds.
Theyre also delicious ground into breading for proteins.
You also cant go wrong enjoying them straight out of the bag for a satisfying snack.
