Sunflower Seed 100g

Sunflower seeds are nutritious, nutty-flavored kernels from sunflower heads, packed with healthy fats, protein, fiber, Vitamin E, and minerals, offering benefits like reduced inflammation, heart health support, and immune boost, eaten raw, roasted, or in various foods like trail mixes, bread, or as sunflower butter. They have an inedible striped shell, and come in varieties used for oil or snacking, providing energy and essential nutrients.
Nutrition & Health Benefits
Rich in Nutrients: Good source of protein, fiber, B vitamins (Thiamine, Folate), Vitamin E, magnesium, zinc, selenium, and healthy fats (polyunsaturated & monounsaturated).
Antioxidant Power: Contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that fight free radicals, reducing chronic disease risk.
Heart Health: Healthy fats and phytosterols can help lower cholesterol and blood pressure.
Anti-inflammatory: Compounds like Vitamin E help reduce inflammation.
Immune Support: Zinc and selenium are crucial for immune function.
Blood Sugar & Energy: Help manage blood sugar and provide sustained energy.
Types of Sunflower Seeds
Linoleic (Striped): Common for snacking, with a balance of fats.
High Oleic: Higher in monounsaturated fats, similar to olive oil.
Oilseed (Black): Solid black shells, primarily grown for sunflower oil extraction.
How to Eat Them
Snack: Raw, roasted, salted, or unsalted.
Baking: Add to bread, muffins, cookies.
Toppings: Sprinkle on salads, yogurt, or stir-fries.
Butter: A popular peanut butter alternative, especially for allergies.
In Trail Mixes: A staple ingredient for energy.
Things to Note
Moderation: High in calories and fat (healthy fats, but still calorific).
Sodium: Salted versions can be high in sodium.
Cadmium: May contain trace amounts of cadmium, but generally safe in moderation.