Sunflower seeds are a true nutritional treasure. With a high content of unsaturated fatty acids, dietary fiber, antioxidants, iron, zinc, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium and vitamins of group B, E and J, this seed is very versatile in the kitchen and can be added to a wide variety of foods. Could. Food ingredient.
The seeds come from the sunflower (Helianthus annuus), a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. The plant is native to North and Central America and its main producers are Russia, China, the United States and Argentina.
What are the benefits of sunflower seeds?
The specialty of the seeds is that they are rich in vitamin E, which gives them various properties. This vitamin is a powerful antioxidant, which helps in keeping cells healthy and thus prevents various diseases. For example, they prevent cholesterol from being oxidized, thus preventing it from sticking to the walls of blood vessels, thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular events.
Additionally, vitamin E from foods reduces the risk of developing colon cancer, as well as complications in people with diabetes.
The antioxidant effect also produces anti-inflammatory effects resulting in reduction of symptoms of asthma, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
On the other hand, they are rich in minerals such as manganese, calcium, copper, phosphorus and selenium, which promote bone health in addition to many other vital functions of the body.
The seeds are also naturally rich in fiber, which makes it a very complete and recommended food to consume as a snack, and the type of fat or fatty acid (linoleic acid) it contains is one of the healthiest, Which once again benefits heart health. Unlike other fats, such as fats from meat or fried foods.
Five uses in the kitchen
-Include shelled sunflower seeds with cereal for a nutritious breakfast.
-Prepare an energy paste to spread with sunflower seed powder and honey.
-Add some roasted sunflower seeds to salads and provide a large amount of dietary fiber.
To make bread and cookies, grind sunflower seeds and mix them with flour.
-Toast with salt and sunflower seeds is one of the healthiest snacks you know.
It should also be noted that it is high in calories, although it can be said that these are good quality calories.
To consume peeled sunflower seeds, you need to roast them first, so add a handful of seeds to a non-stick pan and roast on a low flame for 2 minutes.