Sunflower seeds

Composition of sunflower seeds, nutritional value

The properties of sunflower seeds can make a real impression! These seeds are not only very tasty, but they are a source of unsaturated fatty acids, which are important in the diet. Sunflower seeds contain omega-6 fatty acids.

You should pay attention to the presence of vitamin E, it acts as an antioxidant and has a very important effect on the condition of the skin.

Sunflower seeds contain folic acid or vitamin B9. Why is folic acid so important? Its deficiency can lead to anemia. This acid also plays a key role in the diet of women planning pregnancy, as it ensures the proper development of the fetal nervous system.

It's worth knowing

Nutritional value of sunflower seeds (per 100 grams):

Sunflower seeds contain a huge amount of substances valuable for health. By eating a small handful (about 25 grams), you can meet your daily requirement for most nutrients by an average of 20%. This amount provides up to 5 grams of protein (containing a set of amino acids used by the human body), about 6,500 mg of polyunsaturated fatty acids (mostly omega-6) and 2.2 g of fiber. The small amount of carbohydrates contained in the seeds is mainly fiber and is easily absorbed by the body. The tasty product contains valuable phytosterols and phytoestrogens.

Nutritional characteristics

Sunflower is rich in many useful components. Different parts of this plant contain proteins, carbohydrates, valuable fats, phosphorus, iron, potassium, sodium, selenium, and vitamins.

Sunflower seeds are a very high-calorie product. 100 grams of seeds are almost 600 kcal, approximately 25 g of protein, 1 g of carbohydrates, 42 g of fat and 4 g of plant fiber. In addition, the seeds are rich in B vitamins, , and many minerals. By the way, only 25 g of the product contains the daily requirement of vitamin E. Sunflower seeds contain all the amino acids necessary for humans, and in significant quantities. In addition, this part of the plant is an exceptional source of unsaturated (healthy) fats. One of the most important is linoleic fatty acid, which the body needs to fight “bad” cholesterol. The seeds also contain equally beneficial oleic acid.

The petals of the plant can also be valuable. They contain large quantities of carotenoids, phytosterols, choline, betaine, xanthophyll, sunflower acid and sapogenins.

Sunflower seeds: calorie content

Due to their high fat content, sunflower seeds have a high energy value - a 25 gram serving contains about 150 kcal, so the product should be consumed in moderation. This is a very high-calorie product compared even to meat and bread, fruits and vegetables.

However, even people who are losing weight, or are particularly concerned about their waistline, have reasons to include sunflowers in their daily menu. The product provides the necessary dose of energy, many vitamins and minerals, which has a good effect on the functioning of the digestive system. Seeds are used in many diets for weight loss, and their regular consumption normalizes the acid-base balance in the body.

The seeds regulate metabolism, promoting the burning of fatty tissue. Due to the large amount of fiber, sunflower helps improve intestinal motility and eliminate toxic substances. Can be used as an addition to salad or yogurt, it reduces the glycemic index of food and satisfies hunger for a long time.

The benefits of sunflower seeds for weight loss

Despite their high calorie content, sunflower seeds are beneficial for women when losing weight. The bottom line is that sunflower seeds stimulate metabolism and help normalize stool, so accumulated toxins are eliminated from the body faster.

The benefit of sunflower seeds is that the product satisfies hunger well. A small handful of seeds will replace a snack and will not harm your figure or well-being.

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Sunflower seeds: benefits and harm to the body

Peeled sunflower seeds have numerous beneficial properties.

1. The product is rich in vitamin E, and it prolongs youth.
2. Sunflower seeds have the most valuable properties - they are a storehouse of phytosterols, lower cholesterol in the blood, protect against heart disease and oncology. The properties of sunflower seeds are highly valued by people who suffer from high cholesterol. For this reason, they are used in the fight against atherosclerosis. Seeds are foods high in phytosterols (322 mg/100 g) - substances that lower the level of “bad” LDL cholesterol in the blood and prevent the appearance of atherosclerotic lesions in blood vessels. It is important to remember that phytosterols will have good health effects when consumed in amounts of no more than 3 grams per day, so do not overdo it with sunflower seeds.
3. Sunflower seeds are worth consuming because of substances that have antioxidant properties - vitamin E, selenium, copper, manganese and zinc. They fight free radicals, reduce the risk of cancer and cardiovascular diseases, and slow down the aging process. Antioxidants also have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, help strengthen the body's immunity, and support the immune system in the fight against various types of infections.
4. The nutrients in sunflower seeds are invaluable for the proper functioning of the hematopoietic system and blood circulation. Strengthening blood vessels occurs due to the content of vitamin E and copper. They participate in the synthesis of blood cells, provide it with the necessary coagulation, are used to normalize blood pressure, and play an important role in the regulation of myocardial function. They have a beneficial effect on the blood lipid profile, reducing the concentration of triglycerides. Thus, consumption of sunflower seeds helps reduce the risk of developing atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, heart attacks and strokes. To do this, just use 100 grams of seeds.
5. Consumption of sunflower seeds has a beneficial effect on the nervous system, helping to cope with stress, irritability and anxiety. This is due not only to the composition of sunflower seeds, but also to the process of cleaning the seeds from the husk, which has a meditative effect. Unsaturated fatty acids, B vitamins, magnesium, copper, manganese, iron and zinc are responsible for the good functioning of the nervous system. They are necessary for brain function. A normal supply of these nutrients is essential for mental performance, mental health and well-being. This is due not only to the composition of sunflower seeds, but also to the process of grinding the seeds, which have a meditative effect.
6. Having sunflower seeds in your diet will benefit your beauty. Substances such as vitamin E, zinc, copper, omega acids are responsible for healthy and youthful skin, strengthen hair and nails. Copper is an element necessary for the synthesis of melanin, the pigment of hair and skin that protects against the harmful effects of solar radiation. Eating a handful of sunflower seeds in the morning on an empty stomach will restore healthy shine and strength to your hair, thanks to its zinc content.
7. Necessary in cosmetology, they are used in crushed form as a body scrub; they have a nourishing, moisturizing, cleansing, and rejuvenating effect on the skin.
8. Raw seeds have the ability to slow down the aging of the human body, as they help lower cholesterol levels and cleanse blood vessels of platelets. Therefore, it is recommended to use the seeds raw, they are more beneficial.
9. Promotes rapid healing of soft tissue wounds.
10. Help restore damaged bones and strength after infectious diseases.
11. They improve appetite and can be used both raw and lightly fried in a frying pan.
12. They strengthen the muscular system, which makes them very useful for athletes.
13. In adolescence, acne is not a problem; try eating raw seeds.
14. People who are obese will benefit from seeds, even in the most difficult situations without resorting to different diets.
15. The seeds contain a lot of zinc, which is necessary for the functioning of the thymus gland.
16. Raw seeds have the ability to slow down the aging of the human body, as they help lower cholesterol levels and cleanse blood vessels of platelets. Therefore, it is recommended to use the seeds raw, they are more beneficial.
17. They help normalize the acid-base balance and eliminate heartburn.
18. Treat diseases of the liver and bile ducts.
19. Preserve vision.

Advice: you need to fry the seeds immediately before use; it is not recommended to do this in advance, because the beneficial properties are lost.

The benefits and harms of sunflower seeds (roasted and raw), consumption rates and precautions

Do you want to provide your body with complete protein, a rich set of deficient microelements and vitamins?
There is nothing simpler: ordinary sunflower seeds are superior in nutritional value and amino acid content to many products of animal origin, and they can even be used for dietary nutrition and medicinal purposes.

The main thing is to eat seeds in moderation and never overcook them. Let's figure out whether sunflower seeds are healthy and why.

Beneficial properties of sunflower seeds

Sunflower seeds contain polyunsaturated fatty acids and a complex of fat-soluble vitamins (E, A, D), as well as folic acid and a complex of B vitamins.

More than 50% of the total weight of the seed is fat, almost 21% is protein and only 10% is carbohydrates.

What other benefits are there from sunflower seeds? The product also contains microelements in a form easily digestible by the human body : magnesium, zinc, calcium, phosphorus, iron, iodine.

Such a rich composition of the product provides numerous beneficial properties for humans. They should be used for :

• prevention of diseases of the cardiovascular system, in particular hypertension and heart attack;
• improving the functioning of the liver and pancreas;
• eliminate heartburn;
• lowering cholesterol levels;
• relieving nervous tension and overcoming depression (the process of splitting with your hands allows you to simultaneously massage the nerve endings located at the fingertips).

The significant content of fat-soluble vitamins helps relieve symptoms of osteoarthritis, make asthma attacks less acute, and also improve the condition of inflamed mucous membranes.

For women

The high content of magnesium, zinc and vitamin E makes ordinary sunflower seeds an indispensable product for the female body.

In addition to the beneficial effect on the reproductive system, the benefits of sunflower seeds for women include slowing down the aging process in the body, providing luxurious-looking hair and clean, well-groomed skin.

Some nutritionists recommend replacing some of the animal protein products with raw sunflower seeds, or eating a small amount of sunflower seeds as an aperitif before meals to reduce appetite.

This will allow you to limit yourself to a smaller portion during your main meal, which means it will be easier to say goodbye to extra pounds.

Find out in more detail about the benefits and harms of sunflower seeds for women!

For men

Food rich in minerals helps the male reproductive system, in particular, helps increase potency.

Significant caloric content and high protein content contribute to the rapid saturation of people engaged in heavy physical labor.

The seeds can be added to the diet of men who regularly engage in fitness and bodybuilding: due to the content of amino acids and magnesium, the product helps to quickly build muscle mass and increase the overall endurance of the body.

Read more about the benefits and harms of sunflower seeds for men in a separate article.

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For children

Very young children should not be given seeds in any form : the product is a potential allergen and can injure the delicate throat or accidentally end up in the respiratory tract.

Only high-quality sunflower oil in the amount of 1-2 tsp can be added to baby food.

In the diet of children over 3 years old, you can use oven-dried and crushed seeds, which are sprinkled on main dishes to improve taste and increase nutritional value.

However, uncontrolled eating of seeds with skins should not be allowed under any circumstances.

Schoolchildren are allowed to eat up to 50 grams of raw or dried seeds per day, and dermatologists even prescribe the use of this product for teenagers to reduce acne and reduce skin greasiness.

What are the benefits for pregnant and lactating women?

Sunflower seeds are an ideal source of vitamin E and folic acid , which most pregnant women are deficient in.

However, it is important to ensure that the seeds are clean and contain a minimum of harmful impurities.

The ideal option is plants grown in your own garden plot or by people you know. It is better to refuse store bought ones in bags.

We have figured out why sunflower seeds are useful, it’s time to talk about how and to whom they are harmful. During breastfeeding, it is better to be careful when using the product due to the high risk of developing allergies in the child.

In any case, you can eat no more than 2 tablespoons of raw or slightly dried seeds per day.

Find out the medicinal properties and contraindications of sunflower seeds (popularly known as sunflower), as well as the benefits and harms of raw and roasted sunflower seeds for the body from the program “About the Most Important Thing”:

Depending on the variety, 100 grams of peeled grains contain from 560 to 630 kcal .

Due to its significant nutritional value and high fat and protein content, it is recommended for an adult to eat no more than 50 grams of the product per day.

It is not for nothing that sunflower seeds are called “Russian fast food”: most often they are eaten as a separate product.

However, you can add peeled sunflower seeds to various vegetable salads or baked goods, and also use them as an addition to purees and porridges.

It is not advisable to eat pre-peeled fried seeds : due to active oxidation processes, such a product will only cause harm to the body.

Potential dangers and contraindications

What is the harm from sunflower seeds and is there any? Contraindications for eating the product are:

In large quantities, sunflower seeds can cause diarrhea, and if cracked incorrectly, there is a high probability of damage to tooth enamel.

You should not consume the product in excess of the established norms : the high calorie content of the seeds can cause problems with excess weight.

In addition, sunflowers may contain the heavy metal cadmium , which in large quantities can cause severe toxic poisoning and even oncology.

It is important to consider: the maximum benefit will come from eating raw or oven-dried seeds; the least successful choice is store-bought roasted seeds in packages.

Application in cosmetology

In cosmetology, natural sunflower oil or raw seeds are most often used .

Based on them, various cosmetics can be made: bath mixtures, skin masks with a rejuvenating effect, medicinal ointments to eliminate blackheads and acne.

High-quality sunflower oil can be used to care for very dry skin of the hands and face.

A good solution is to grind the seeds in a coffee grinder and use the resulting flour as a body scrub.

In this case, peeling procedures will bring a triple effect: they will remove impurities and dead cells, and also provide hydration and nutrition to the skin.

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Are they good for weight loss?

In weight loss diets, raw sunflower seeds are most often used , which are recommended to be eaten half an hour before meals to reduce appetite.

There is also a more stringent version of the mono-diet, which involves eating 200 grams of raw seeds daily and completely refusing any other food.

You can eat this way for no longer than 3 days and only if there are no contraindications.

For medicinal purposes

Is it healthy to eat fried sunflower seeds for health purposes? What should you do with them, if not gnawing them?

To relieve the symptoms of arthritis and prevent heart disease, it is recommended to eat 100 grams of sunflower seeds daily.

To reduce blood sugar levels, you can take an infusion of 0.5 cups of raw grains, which are poured with a liter of boiling water and infused for about 12 hours.

To reduce blood pressure and treat bronchitis, use a decoction of 0.5 kg of seeds and 2 liters of water, boiled for an hour and infused.

Sprouted sunflower seeds can be used as food as an additional measure in the treatment of cancer.

How to select and store

Depending on the fat and protein content, there are fattier varieties of sunflowers that are used to make oil, and tasty varieties of chewy sunflowers that are usually eaten unprocessed.

Large black seeds with white stripes will be the most delicious when roasted.

A huge advantage of the product is its ability to retain all its beneficial properties for several months. Fresh seeds can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 months , and in the freezer - up to six months.

The packaging of seeds intended for storage must be airtight.

How to fry yourself

Seeds prepared at home are definitely cleaner, healthier and tastier than store-bought ones . The ideal option is to dry the seeds in the oven or eat them raw.

If you plan to fry the seeds, you must first rinse them thoroughly in a colander and place them in a heated frying pan with a thick bottom.

During frying, you need to periodically stir the contents of the pan to prevent it from burning. The readiness of the product can be determined by taste or by the characteristic crackling sound.

Completely prepared seeds should be transferred to a dry plate or cutting board, covered with a cloth and left for 5-15 minutes.

The “Test Purchase” program talks about the benefits and harms of fried sunflower seeds:

As with other aspects of life, the key to consuming seeds is moderation.

In small quantities, sunflower seeds, raw or roasted, will bring great benefits to the body, but if abused, they can cause you no less harm.

Source: https://foodexpert.pro/produkty/semena-i-masla/semechki-podsolnuha.html

Sunflower seeds: benefits and harms for diabetes

Most patients are interested in the benefits of sunflower seeds for diabetes, and how much of this product can be included in their diet. Nutritionists recommend consuming sunflower seeds in small quantities for diabetics with type 1 and type 2 disease.

Their advantage in diabetes is explained by the minimal amount of carbohydrates in the composition, a sufficient amount of proteins and the presence of polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are important in the daily diet. The product does not contain sugar, which emphasizes its relative safety. A large number of micro- and macroelements allows you to saturate the body with the substances necessary to improve its health and prevent the development of chronic complications.

To eat sunflower seeds if you have diabetes, you must follow certain rules:

• - when fried, you can eat a small amount;
• -it is necessary to dry the product in the oven or in the air, and do not fry it in a frying pan;
• -do not season with salt;
• -due to the high amount of calories, use no more than 2 tablespoons of the product per day.

When calculating the amount of insulin for injection, the XE index should be taken into account.

Harm and contraindications:

Experts do not recommend using seeds for people suffering from gastritis and peptic ulcers. Overweight people should not eat large quantities of sunflower seeds. Like everything in this world, abuse leads to unpleasant consequences. Overeating sunflower seeds leads to a glut of fat in the body, which can lead to the deposition of fat on the body. One glass of fried seeds can be equal to a whole portion of pork kebab, the analogy is more than obvious.

Advice! For people prone to obesity, and even those who are overweight, the product is completely contraindicated, but if you want to try it, then only in the smallest quantities.

A large amount of cadmium contained in sunflower seeds is very harmful. Cadmium is toxic and contributes to pathology at the cellular level, as well as various neuronal diseases and kidney problems. One packet of sunflower seeds can be as harmful as a pack of strong cigarettes, so you should never mix both products together. In addition, people suffering from gout and gastrointestinal diseases (colic or ulcers) should not consume this product.

Advice! Study the contents of the bags of seeds you buy. Try to find a manufacturer that completely excludes cadmium from the composition, or buy only from reputable companies.

The product should not be used when the patient simultaneously experiences the following problems:

• -stomach ulcer;
• -inflammation of the intestine with erosion and ulceration;
• - pathology of the throat.

It is undesirable to fry the product; it is better to dry it, since the frying process is accompanied by the formation of a number of carcinogens that negatively affect the human body. Another warning - do not crack the seeds with your teeth. This destroys the integrity of tooth enamel and causes increased sensitivity to hot and cold foods.

The benefits of sunflower seeds

People value the benefits of the product as a relaxant: nothing is more relaxing than the leisurely clicking of seeds, and thorough chewing relieves tension in the nervous system.

General

This is a communication tool that helps establish communication. Buy a bag of seeds and treat a pinch to someone you know - you are guaranteed an intimate conversation.

Makes the walls of blood vessels elastic

As a result of past diseases, with reduced immunity, and lack of vitamins, blood vessels suffer. They become like thin glass that breaks with minor touches. The seeds contain a complex of substances that make the walls of blood vessels elastic: linoleic acid, amino acids, proteins.

Have a laxative effect

In 100 gr. Sunflower seeds contain 8.6 grams of dietary fiber, which is 43% of the required daily requirement. Dietary fiber is a scarce nutritional component that is responsible for the smooth functioning of the intestines. A handful of seeds will improve the functioning of the duodenum and help remove waste deposits from the body.

Maintain control over emotions

You can curb negative emotions, irritability and anxiety with a handful of seeds. The calming effect is achieved not due to the clicking process, but due to thiamine or vitamin B1. Thiamine acts on the nervous system indirectly: B1 regulates the production of serotonin, the “happiness hormone”.

Normalize acid-base balance

Therapists Franz Xavier Mayr and Howard Hay made a scientific breakthrough in the first half of the 20th century: scientists proved that processed foods create a certain environment: acidic or alkaline. Scientists measured the pH of food products and divided them into three groups: acidic, neutral and alkaline. The body of a healthy person maintains a slightly alkaline environment with a pH of 7.35 to 7.4, but if a person consumes more “acidic” foods, the pH shifts downward and “acidification” of the body occurs.

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Increased acidity is fraught with disruption of the normal functioning of the body: enzymes cannot work in acid, cells are destroyed, and beneficial minerals are “washed out.” It is possible to normalize the acid-base balance if you review your diet and consume more “alkaline” foods. These include roasted sunflower seeds.

For women

Act against hair loss and acne

In the book “Healing Nutrition” by Russian doctor Galina Shatalova, emphasis is placed on the high zinc content in sunflower grains. Zinc is an element that a woman needs. If there is not enough zinc in the body, then dandruff, flaking of the scalp, and acne will appear. Hair will become dull and brittle, and the skin will acquire a grayish tint and an oily sheen. A zinc diet, in which sunflower seeds occupy one of the first places, will help normalize the condition of the epidermis.

Rejuvenate the skin

It’s easy to guess the benefits of sunflower seeds for women by looking at the composition: the leading position among vitamins is occupied by A and E. Vitamin A is a powerful natural barrier against dangerous compounds and breakdown products for the body’s cells. Vitamin E increases the supply of oxygen to cells, activates metabolic processes, due to which the aging process in the body slows down.

For men

Support potency and reproductive function

Sometimes it wouldn’t hurt for the stronger half to gnaw on sunflower seeds. For men, grain products are needed to maintain sexual health. Vitamin E improves potency, fatty acids prevent the deposition of cholesterol plaques, which is necessary for normal blood circulation and erection. Vitamin E with selenium are two essential components for healthy sperm. The elements affect the shape of sperm, their quantity and vitality.

For children

Strengthens bone tissue

Many mothers deprive their children of the pleasure of cracking seeds and make a mistake. For a child, when used in moderation, the product will benefit. In 100 gr. grains contain 367 mg of calcium, which is more than in cottage cheese with a fat content of 18% - 150 mg, low-fat milk - 126 mg, low-fat kefir - 126 mg, and fermented milk products.

The seeds contain phosphorus and vitamin D and, in tandem with calcium, are builders of bone tissue and teeth.

Sunflower seeds: benefits and harm for men and women

Seeds can prevent the development of prostate cancer. The seeds contain another potentially anti-cancer substance, linoleic acid, which may block cancer formation and reduce the risk of metastasis.

Linoleic acid is most effective in preventing breast, lung, melanoma and colorectal cancer.

Sunflower seeds are one of the richest sources of vitamin E, commonly known as the fertility vitamin, which is essential for the proper functioning of the reproductive organs. Its deficiency reduces the secretion of a hormone that contributes to sperm degeneration in men.

Vitamin E is also necessary during pregnancy, as it is responsible for its maintenance and normal development of the fetus.

Daily dosage and how to take it

Three handfuls of sunflowers are enough to cover the daily requirement for the product for an adult.

Sunflower seeds are often considered a snack in their own right. Tasty and healthy grains can be part of many dishes. They go well with sweet and salty dishes, and look great if you sprinkle them on cream, casserole, or ice cream. It is worth adding them to muesli, homemade bread, cookies and cakes. Lightly roasted sunflower seeds enhance the flavor of vegetable salads. You can use them to make hummus or delicious halva.

If, instead of buying sweets, you please your family with homemade delicacies based on sunflower seeds, it will be much healthier. Home cooking will not only delight your culinary skills, but will also preserve the health of your loved ones: purchased sweets, unlike seeds, which are a natural product, do not bring any benefit.

It is better to use raw sunflower seeds without roasting them. In any case, you should not fry them in advance and buy roasted seeds in bags. It is better to lightly fry the seeds or simply dry them before use.

Do not remove the peel with your teeth, as this can damage your tooth enamel.

The use of sunflower seeds in cosmetology

The presence of vitamins A, E and D in the product, as well as the high fat content, are the reasons why the properties of the seeds are valued in cosmetology. Crushed seeds are often used in homemade face masks; scrubs based on seeds have a particularly beneficial effect. Sunflower seeds help get rid of acne and improve the structure of the skin, making it more elastic and toned.

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The product has regenerating properties and promotes the healing of skin damage. Therefore, homemade ointments are made from the seeds, which have a beneficial effect on cuts, scratches and burns. And sunflower seed oil has a beneficial effect on the skin and strengthens the hair structure when used in medicinal masks.

Sunflower halva recipe

Recipe:

• shelled seeds - 3 cups,
• flour - 2 cups,
• water - 200 ml,
• sugar - 100 g,
• sunflower oil - 100 ml,
• vanilla to taste.

1. Carefully fry the peeled seeds in a frying pan and pass through a meat grinder twice.
2. Then fry the flour (in a dry frying pan) until golden brown.
3. Put vanilla, sugar, water, butter in a saucepan, bring to a boil, turn off the heat.
4. Then add the ground seeds, which are first mixed with flour.
5. Next, place the mass in a mold, which you grease with oil or place on paper.

Place in the refrigerator for 2 hours. This is ready-made homemade halva.

How to roast sunflower seeds

Before frying, the seeds should be thoroughly rinsed with cold water and immediately transferred to a hot cast-iron frying pan. You can lightly salt the product, but this is not necessary. Take care of the quality of sunflower seeds by stirring them with a wooden spatula until they begin to squeak. Then turn off the stove for a while, without stopping stirring, and turn it on again, repeat 2-3 times.

Place the prepared seeds on an unpainted wooden cutting board, cover with a cotton or linen cloth, and leave for 10 minutes. This is how sunflower seeds have always been prepared in Russia.

Sunflower seeds are firmly rooted in the Russian diet as one of the most favorite delicacies. Regular consumption of seeds not only brings pleasure, but also has a very positive effect. Non-roasted seeds will bring maximum benefit to the body.

Selection and storage of sunflower seeds

Sunflower seeds can be purchased peeled or unshelled, raw, roasted and salted, and they keep well. You should not choose seeds with yellowed husks. It is better to buy an unrefined product, because peeled seeds can be harmful - fat oxidation occurs; it is better to fry them yourself.

Frequent use of roasted seeds is undesirable; overcooked seeds can cause cancer due to carcinogenic substances. Be careful and attentive, you can get poisoning or an intestinal infection if the product is poorly washed or there is dirt on the shell. In addition, fried seeds contribute to the deposition of salts in the joints.

Sunflower seeds contain a high concentration of fat, so it is best to store them in the refrigerator (in the bottom drawer). Otherwise they may go rancid.

Eat seeds and don't get sick!

Beneficial properties of sunflower seeds

Both the benefits and harm of sunflower seeds are determined by their chemical composition given above. The presence of fiber provides a beneficial effect on the gastrointestinal tract, stimulation of its motility and improvement of intestinal function. The seeds will be especially useful for people suffering from constipation or simply prone to it. They have a positive effect on the functioning of the biliary tract and liver function. In some cases, they help get rid of heartburn. Eating them raw speeds up wound healing and helps strengthen the immune system after infectious diseases.

The seeds have a beneficial effect on the nervous system, which is confirmed even by psychologists. Moreover, this process can be viewed from two sides. Firstly, they contain a lot of magnesium and B vitamins, the deficiency of which does not have the best effect on a person’s general condition. Thiamine or vitamin B1 is of particular importance. It enhances the production of serotonin (“the hormone of happiness”), participates in the regeneration of damaged nerve fibers and energy processes occurring in nerve cells. Secondly, the process of eating seeds itself has a calming effect on the nervous system. Monotonous clicking promotes relaxation and calm, allows you to escape from problems, relieve tension and irritability.

The presence of vitamins A, E and C in combination with unsaturated fatty acids and B vitamins makes the product very beneficial for the cardiovascular system. It promotes:

• increasing the strength and elasticity of vascular walls;
• reducing the degree of cholesterol absorption;
• reducing the concentration in the blood of low-density lipoproteins, known to many as “bad cholesterol,” which increases the risk of the formation of cholesterol plaques and blood clots in the lumen of the vessel;
• prevention of atherosclerosis, hypertension and coronary heart disease.

Sunflower seeds are especially useful for the fair sex, as they contain high concentrations of the so-called “beauty vitamins” (A, E and C). These vitamins play an important role in maintaining healthy and well-groomed skin, hair, and nails; thanks to their pronounced antioxidant activity, they slow down aging, neutralize free radicals, improve metabolic processes in tissues, and increase the rate of cell regeneration. When crushed, the seeds can be used to prepare homemade masks and scrubs that have a rejuvenating, moisturizing and tightening effect. There is also evidence that their use can alleviate the condition of women during menopause by reducing the frequency of hot flashes.

The mineral zinc contained in the seeds has a beneficial effect on the scalp and hair, eliminates dandruff and flaking, strengthens the hair shaft, gives it strength and shine, and also participates in the functioning of the thymus gland. This element also has a positive effect on men’s health, as it improves the composition and properties of sperm and normalizes the level of the main male hormone – testosterone.

The seeds will also be useful for children, since due to the presence of calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D, they help strengthen bone tissue and teeth. In addition, the process of peeling them with your hands can be quite an interesting activity for a child and contribute to the development and improvement of fine motor skills. For older children experiencing adolescence, accompanied by the appearance of unsightly acne on the face, the seeds will help reduce the likelihood of its occurrence.

Interesting: Men often use sunflower seeds as a distraction and a new activity for their hands when trying to quit smoking or at least reduce the number of cigarettes they smoke.

Sunflower seeds are widely used in cooking, they are added to breakfast cereals, candies, cakes and other confectionery products, pastries, bread, and they are used to make kozinaki, which children love very much.