Sunflower

Health Benefits of Sunflower Seeds

1. Supports Immunity

• Immunity boosting effects of sunflower seeds are due to the presence of vitamin E, zinc and selenium in them³.
• Vitamin E enhances immune responses and protects against several infectious diseases. It is also a powerful antioxidant and prevents free radicals from damaging healthy cells in our body.
• Zinc protects our body from inflammation, allergies and invading pathogens, thus preventing infections and increasing overall immunity.
• Selenium reduces inflammation and enhances immunity. It also helps to reduce oxidative stress from free radicals.

2. Cardioprotective Effects

• Sunflower seeds are rich in oleic and linoleic acid and low in saturated fats and sodium. They also contain magnesium, potassium and fibre³.
• They are beneficial for the regulation of blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and heart health when consumed in moderation³.

3. Diabetes Friendly

• Sunflower seeds are useful for people with type 2 diabetes mellitus⁴. What is type 2 diabetes? It is a chronic condition that leads to high levels of blood sugar in your body as the cells do not respond to insulin as well as they should. A few of the symptoms include increased thirst and hunger, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue and blurred vision.

4. Boosts the Function of the Brain

• Sunflower seeds contain vitamin B6. It helps improve mood and concentration and may also enhance memory in some cases⁵.  Sunflower seeds may also help to ease symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

5. Supports Weight Management

• Sunflower seeds are rich in protein and fibre. They make us feel full for a long time⁶, reduce our food intake and finally reduce the number of calories consumed. This makes them suitable for a weight loss diet. .

Also Read: Halim Seeds: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects and More By Dr. Rajeev Singh

6. A Powerhouse of Energy

• Sunflower seeds are a good source of thiamine (vitamin B1). Thiamine helps to break down carbohydrates, proteins and fats present in our food into energy⁷. They also help in muscle building.
• A handful of sunflower seeds can give you instant energy when consumed.

7. Good for our Skin

• Consuming sunflower seeds benefits the skin as it makes our skin glow, and the antibacterial and antifungal activity of these seeds also protects from some infections, thus keeping our skin clear.
• Oleic and linoleic acids, present in sunflower seeds help in the formation of collagen and elastin, speeding up wound healing⁸.

8. Helpful During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, the benefits of eating sunflower seeds are many as they are loaded with Vitamin E, folic acid, which are known to be extremely beneficial for prenatal health.

9. Helps Reduce Inflammation

People suffering from chronic inflammation can find relief by consuming sunflower seeds either as part of a trail mix or by adding them to their breakfast cereal or even by sprinkling some on their soup or salad. The health benefits of sunflower seeds include anti-inflammatory properties due to the presence of flavonoids, Vitamin E and other compounds.