Sunflower seeds are loved by many in our country. We do well to consume it regularly, as it is incredibly rich in healthy fats, vitamins and minerals, most notably vitamin E and selenium. Both of these are powerful antioxidants that actively protect our cells from the damaging effects of free radicals, helping to prevent many chronic diseases.
This popular seed contains a wide range of nutrients: vitamins B6 and E, niacin, folic acid, pantothenic acid, iron, magnesium, zinc, copper, manganese, selenium. Sunflower seeds can help reduce high blood pressure and cholesterol, but they also play an important role in stabilizing blood sugar levels.
Inflammation is a natural immune response, but chronic inflammation can cause a number of serious diseases, including heart disease and type 2 diabetes. However, the flavonoids and other beneficial plant compounds found in sunflower seeds can help reduce inflammation levels.
High blood pressure is one of the risk factors for heart disease, which can caus
e heart attacks and strokes. Sunflower seeds contain a compound that blocks the contraction of blood vessels and even helps them to relax, which has an antihypertensive effect. Magnesium in the seed also has an antihypertensive effect.
In addition, sunflower seeds are rich in unsaturated fatty acids, especially linoleic acid. This compound relaxes blood vessels, which also reduces blood pressure and helps to lower cholesterol levels.
This popular seed also contains nutrients that reduce the risk of inflammation and type 2 diabetes, and its blood pressure regulating effect is due to the chlorogenic acid it contains.
Sunflower seeds can also be sprouted, as they are very healthy. But it has to be done carefully, because if it is not sprouted under the right conditions, the seeds will be contaminated and we can become infected. We should not overdo it, as eating too much can cause constipation, despite the high fibre content. Always check where sunflower seeds come from and only buy them from controlled places.
