up memories of baseball games growing up, but they are actually a much more wholesome food than the hot dogs and other foods that may also remind you of ballpark fare.
We are all guilty of having an unhealthy relationship with junk food, not realizing it until and unless it takes a toll on our waistline and puts us at risk of several other health problems.
One of the biggest issues that most weight watchers face is snacking. We clearly know nuts and seeds are some of the healthiest options available in the market and sunflower seeds, in particular, are full of nutrition.
Adding sunflower seeds to your diet could do wonders for your skin, heart, immunity and overall health.
Read below to find out four good reasons to start adding them to your favorite snacks for a serious health boost.
1. Sunflower seeds boast anti-inflammatory benefits
You don’t just have to eat the trendy seeds—like chia and hemp—to reap the anti-inflammatory benefits they have to offer. A study out of Columbia University found consuming sunflower and other seeds five or more times per week to be associated with lower levels of inflammation—which the authors of the study may be why consumption of them is also related to a reduced risk for several chronic diseases.
2. Sunflower seeds boost your heart health
Unlike saturated fat, moderate unsaturated fat consumption has actually shown to improve one’s heart health. A study out of Harvard University found increased seed consumption—sunflower seeds included—to be associated with a lower risk for cardiovascular disease, as well as CVD risk factors, such as high cholesterol and blood pressure. Making the effort to consume more heart-healthy fats, like the mono- and polyunsaturated fats found in sunflower seeds, can make a huge impact on your heart health (learn more about the best and worst foods to eat for heart health).
3. Sunflower seeds are a great food for expecting mothers
Whether you’re hoping to have a baby, are pregnant or are just trying to follow a well-balanced diet, sunflower seeds have a lot to offer. These seeds are a good source of zinc and folate, while being an excellent source of vitamin E. Vitamin E is essential for prenatal health, as it helps the fetus develop and use red blood cells and muscles. Folate supports the placenta and helps prevent spina bifida, while zinc helps produce insulin and enzymes.
4. Sunflower seeds help to prevent and fight sickness
Sunflower seeds are a good or excellent source of nearly a dozen essential vitamins and minerals, two of them being zinc and selenium. Zinc is an integral part of the immune system, as it helps both to develop and maintain proper function of immune cells. Additionally, zinc functions as an antioxidant to fight off free radicals.
