Benefits of Sunflower Seeds

on

 

Sunflower Seeds According to Ayurveda


According to Ayurveda, sunflower seeds are loaded with necessary nutrients and minerals and give an instant energy boost.

Full of Nutrients and Minerals

Sunflower seeds are not only considered a healthy snack, but they also contain a great source of carbohydrates, fats, protein, and fiber. Boasting with Vitamin B6, Niacin, Vitamin E, Folate, and Pantothenic acid, as well as Manganese, Selenium, Copper, Zinc, iron, and Magnesium.  Sunflower seeds are also a natural anti-inflammatory and rich in anti-oxidants. Thus with a variety of nutrients, Sunflower seeds are an appealing snack for the health-conscious.

Manganese is a trace mineral that helps the body form connective tissue, bones, blood-clotting factors, and sex hormones, and is necessary for normal brain and nerve function.

 

Sunflower Seeds are anti-inflammatory 

Eating foods that serve as an anti-inflammatory food, is one of the biggest benefits we can give our bodies. A lot of intolerances and allergies are becoming a way of life for many, with autoimmune diseases crippling so many people. A diet that is rich in anti-inflammatory foods really helps to ease these types of illnesses. One of the best things about Sunflower seeds is their anti-inflammatory properties.  The flavonoids and other elements in Sunflower seeds have a high potential to reduce inflammations internally and externally.


Heart Health

Sunflower seeds have proven cardioprotective properties. The magnesium in sunflower seeds helps improve blood flow in the arteries and also eliminates blockages. This improves heart health and prevents cardiac diseases.

Regular consumption of Sunflower seeds helps prevent the build of fat and cholesterol content in the walls of blood vessels This condition is called atherosclerosis. Studies show that regular consumption of nuts and seeds including Sunflower seeds may keep atherosclerosis away.

 

Low Glycemic Index

Those who have high blood pressure or cholesterol issues may find that snacking on sunflower seeds is a good alternative to high-fat snacks because of their low glycemic index.  Sunflower seeds contain an element called chlorogenic acid which might help lower blood sugar levels. They also assist in regulating blood pressure. These seeds relax the blood vessels by helping to eliminate the fat and cholesterol build-up on the walls of the vessels. This helps in the smooth flow of blood and in turn, brings down blood pressure levels.


Cutting Back on Cashews

There is a valid reason why I chose to readapt my recipes to be cashew-free. While it is important to help people with nut allergies, my decision was more based on my years living in India.

I discovered cashews were widely available in India, and when I first arrived, I was so pleased to be eating my favorite nut, at a ridiculously low price tag, compared to my home country, Australia.

I'll admit it took a few years before I was enlightened as to why they were so cheap. I'm not even sure how I found out, but I think it was a documentary I was watching. As soon as I understood the poor conditions of the cashew farmworkers, and the damage cashews can do to their skin, I immediately went about reducing cashews in my recipes.

Now, I am the biggest fan of sunflower seeds and replace my cashew condiments and cheesecake recipes with them. I also love making my own cheeses, and my Sunflower Cheddar is one of mine and my customer's favorites. Sunflower Seeds can replace Cashews in most dishes.







Properties of Sunflower Seeds


GUNAS (NATURE): Sattvic 

DOSHAS: 

Vata/Pitta Balancing                                  Kapha Aggravating

Superpower:  Energy Booster

Tastes: Crunchy

Element: Earth

Energy: Grounding

   

Some of the Benefits:

  • In Ayurveda, sunflower seeds are used during Women's periods or menstrual cycles. Sunflower Seeds help to Pacify Vata and calm Pitta dosha
  • Sunflower seeds are richer in protein and fiber and lower in carbohydrates than cashews
  • Allergies to seeds are much less common, and as a result, they’re usually allowed in schools
  • They are an excellent source of vitamin E
  • Neutralize free radicals
  • Prevent asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoarthritis.
  • High magnesium helps in to manage blood pressure, headaches and migraines. As well as promoting healthy teeth and bones
  • Repair cell damage, thereby preventing cancer, due to the presence of selenium
  • Reduces inflammation, helps in cholesterol management, and improves detoxification
  • Regulates blood pressure
  • Lowers blood sugar levels
  • Eliminates fat and cholesterol buildup in blood vessels  
  • Instant energy booster
  • Helps improve blood flow in the arteries
  • cardioprotective properties
  • Good for diabetes type 2      


                                 

Comments

Post a Comment