Scientific name - Helianthus annuus
It is a health
promoting snack. It is an excellent source of vit E, B1, copper, magnesium,
selenium phosphorus, niacin ,vitamin B6 etc.
Benefits
are
· It is a rich source of vitamin E ,the body ‘s
primary fat soluble antioxidant. vitamin E has anti-inflammatory property
that’s why it is
helpful in osteoarthritis
,rheumatoid arthritis
etc.
· Helps to decrease the symptoms such as hot
flashes etc after menopause.
· It helps to prevent heart attack by reducing the risk of developing atherosclerosis .These seeds
prevent bad cholesterol from sticking to the walls of arteries.
· Due to rich source of magnesium it helps to reduce high blood pressure. Insuffiecient magnesium can cause
muscle cramps ,tension, fatigue, migraine headache ,high BP etc. Thus proper
amount of magnesium keeps you calm.
· It helps to detoxify the body.
· They control cell damage thus help to prevent cancer . As you know it is a rich source of selenium
which is enemy of cancer.
· Rich in healthy fats sunflower seeds are rich
in monounsaturated and poly unsaturated fats .These two types of fats are good
for your body
.
· Just ¼ th cup of seeds contains 7 grams of
protein ,according to the USDA National Nurient Database.this protein will give
your body energy throughout the day.
Important - Remember not to eat the shells of the
sunflower seeds .unshelled seeds are good to eat always .
How
you can use it :-
First of all eat it in
moderate amount ,
1 ounce is sufficient in a day .you cam knead them in
dough,add in yogurt,sandwiches, pasta etc.stick to eating raw and unsalted .
Note when purchasing shells
seeds avoid those that appear yellowish in colour as they have probably gone
rancid.it is best to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.