You’ve probably seen flaxseeds, chia seeds, and hemp seeds hyped as trendy snack options to help fuel your busy day, but what about their underrated, more flavorful (not to mention equally as healthy) cousin, sunflower seeds?
Low-salt sunflower seeds are not only low in carbohydrates, but are an excellent source of protein, fiber, vitamin E, and plenty of healthy fats. You don’t have to take our word for it either. According to TIME magazine and registered dietitian Alissa Rumsey, sunflower seeds not only have a healthy mix of mono and polysaturated fats that support heart health and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, but one serving of seeds contains roughly 6 grams of protein and 2.5 grams of fiber.
The fiber in low-salt sunflower seeds assists in regulating blood sugar and helps you feel more full, and according to this study, people who have higher intakes of fiber “appear to be at significantly lower risk for developing coronary heart disease, stroke, hypertension, diabetes, obesity and certain gastrointestinal diseases.”
Sunflower seeds are also rich in magnesium, which is needed for over 300 chemical reactions in the body, in addition to folate, a vitamin that aids in DNA synthesis, phosphorus for bone health and B6 that assists with brain development and a healthy immune system.
It’s reported that sunflower seeds can promote hair health and growth because they’re packed with nutrients that our strands love, like vitamin E and zinc, with reasonably few calories. According to Healthline, one ounce of sunflower seeds provides almost half of the recommended daily vitamin E intake, not to mention all the other health benefits listed above.
So, how can you get more of this delicious and nutritious sunflower seed into your diet?
Low-salt sunflower seeds are the best option, and help enhance the flavor of the seeds and replenish electrolytes you sweat out as you go about your day. Seeds like Chinook Seedery sunflower seeds make a perfect option due to their low-salt content, and the variety of our unique flavors ensure you never get bored during snack time. See our handy, dandy guide to our flavors below. Wherever you can add sunflower seeds into your diet, you can munch away with little guilt knowing that you’re fueling your body with a nutrient-filled and good-for-you option.
