Do you think sunflower seeds are just for snacking? Think again. These little seeds are nutrition powerhouses and a great financial and health value in these economically stressful times.
1. They are nutritionally dense. Comparing the sunflower kernel to other nuts and foods that are high in these compounds, sunflower seeds contain high levels of vitamin E, betaine, phenolic acid, and choline. They are also a good source of arginine and lignans, selenium and magnesium. These substances offer a variety of health benefits.
Vitamin E offers protection against cardiovascular disease, it has anti-inflammatory effects, lowers the risks of colon cancer, and it reduces menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes. It also lowers the risk of diabetic complications. One-quarter cup of sunflower seeds provides 90.5% of the Daily Value (DV) for vitamin E.
Selenium is a trace mineral that helps with DNA repair and synthesis, inhibits the growth of cancer cells, and induces cancer cell death. One-quarter cup of sunflower kernels provides 30.6% of DV.
Another beneficial compound is magnesium. It is good for healthy bones and energy. It regulates nerve and muscle tone. Eating one-quarter cup of sunflower seeds gives you 31.9% DV of mighty magnesium.
2. It makes financial sense. Today I compared the price of one pound of raw organic sunflower seeds with the prices of raw organic walnuts and raw organic almonds. The sunflower seeds are .69, almonds .99, and walnuts .99.
Comparing nutrients, sunflower seeds are considerably higher in vitamin E and selenium, as well as higher in folate, iron and zinc than the almonds and walnuts.
In these challenging economic times, getting the most value for your hard-earned money is important. You might consider taking a good look at nutritious, economical sunflower seeds.
3. They taste good. Not only does it make sense to eat more sunflower seeds because they offer outstanding nutrition and you can afford to buy them, but they also taste good.
In addition to just eating them plain, people enjoy sprinkling them on salads, toasted or raw. You can also sprout the raw seeds and add them to salads. They are delicious on cooked or cold breakfast cereals. For a new taste sensation, try sprinkling some on pasta with marinara sauce or pasta primavera. They provide a pleasant nutty and crunchy contrast to the softer cooked vegetables and noodles.
If you want to reduce cholesterol in your diet, here's a simple recipe for a nondairy milk made from sunflower seeds. Blend the following together: 1/4 cup raw sunflower seeds, 2 cups water, pinch of Celtic sea salt, 1/2 teaspoon of maple syrup, 1/8-1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract. If you have a high-powered blender, that's probably all you'll need for a delicious, creamy milk. If you have a less powerful blender, you may need to strain it following blending. It's a delicious drink by itself, as the base of a smoothie, or poured over your morning cereal.
The next time you are grocery shopping, don't forget about these amazing seeds that offer a wealth of nutrients and health benefits, are easy on your budget, and taste great.
