Sunflower seeds, sunflower oil, health benefits

 Sunflower seeds, sunflower oil, health benefits

Sunflower seeds are eaten in many forms. They can be taken as raw seeds, or in roasted form, they are rich in taste. The sunflower oil is very commonly used in almost all parts of the world. But generally we are not very much familiar with its health benefits, generally the canola oil, olive oil and mustard oil are considered the best for health.

Let’s have a look at the health benefits of sunflower seeds and its oil.

The nutritional value of sunflower seeds.

The list of nutrients present in sunflower seeds and oil is long.

the nutritional value of sun flower seed

·         The sun flower a seeds when eaten raw or roasted. A handful of seeds contain sufficient supply of fibers and complex carbohydrates for our body.

·         So one of the health benefits of sunflower seeds is the supply of healthy complex carbohydrates which are considered as a good source of energy and are essential to include in our diet.

·         The amount of essential fats present in sunflower seeds are poly unsaturated and mono unsaturated fats. These fats are also considered healthy fats and can cause a decrease in blood cholesterol level. As a result the sun flower oil is good to for the health of heart, arteries and can help prevent stroke and high blood pressure

·         About 20 percent of proteins are also present in sunflower seeds.

The micro nutrients present in sun flower seeds are Thiamine, Riboflavin, Niacin, Pantothenic acid, Folate, Choline, vitamin B6, vitamin C and vitamin E.

·         Sun flower seeds also contain the minerals like calcium, iron, potassium, phosphorous, sodium and zinc.  

·         A type of fat called linoleic acid is found in sunflower oil. A study at Harward University recommends sunflower oil use for the presence of linoleic acid, which causes the relaxation of blood vessels. And help maintain cholesterol levels.

The study reveals that the sunflower seeds regular consumption can cause a lowering of the risk of cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes 

·         The vitamin B3 and B5 are involved in cholesterol pathways. The increase the HDL or good cholesterol in our body. It has a combined effect on lowering the cholesterol and blood glucose levels as well

 sunflower seeds can boost your Immunity.

Sunflower seeds are packed with essential vitamins and minerals.

The most important of these for our immunity are Vitamin E, Zinc and Selenium.

Vitamin E is crucial to immune function and helps to protect us against various illnesses.

It is also a powerful antioxidant that helps prevent cell damage by free radicals.

Zinc is a key component of the immune system and can help with developing and maintaining cells.

It also has the ability to kill off oxidants in order to keep everything running smoothly.

Selenium also acts as a natural anti-inflammatory and infection fighter.

It also boosts the immune system to produce a proper response to any bugs.

This mineral is also postulated to be a critical part of brain health – and is linked to the prevention of various neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s.

Talking about brain health – sunflower seeds can Boost your Brain function too!

Sunflower seeds are a good source of vitamin B6 also known as Pyridoxine.

This essential nutrient is important for synthesis of neurotransmitters in the brain.

Usually, the imbalance of neurotransmitters can lead to various mental effects.

So, consumption of sunflower seeds can restore the optimum balance.

This helps to improve mood, concentration and memory.

Sunflower seeds also help with symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) such as irritability and depression.

·         sunflower seeds can reduce inflammation.

 Inflammation is a normal response of the body to help cure the damage. But inflammation can be chronic as well if it is unable to control the damage resulted from an injury or infection. A certain protein CRP is the indicator to detect inflammation in body. High levels of CRP indicate the inflammation. The nuts and seeds consumption can lower the levels of CRP including the sun flower seeds.

·         Sunflower seed are great for pregnant females

Sunflower seeds contain Zinc, Folate, and Vitamin E.

These are good for fetus growth as well as development of healthy placenta to, support and carry the fetus.

·         The Healthy fatty acid, the Zinc and the Vitamin E – gives you Healthier Skin

So to get a good and glowing skin and a good over all heath, include the delicious, healthy roasted sunflower seed and sunflower oil in your diet.

Sun flower oil is safe for frying

Another good thing about sunflower oil is that it has a high smoke point. means it do not deteriorate for longer time on heating so unlike olive oil or any other oil it can safely be used to fry edibles.