Seeds are at the very beginning stage of life. They contain all the nutrients essential for growing a healthy plant, and so they offer our bodies many benefits. Seeds are a versatile ingredient that can be used to add extra to nearly any meal, cookie, bread, and smoothie. They are extremely nutritious. From chia seed pudding to roasted pumpkin seeds, there are endless ways to add tasty health seeds to your diet while increasing your intake of protein, fiber and heart-healthy fats. You should aim to include a good variety of organic healthy seeds in your diet to take advantage of the benefits that each has to offer.
Flaxseeds
Flaxseeds have been consumed for at least 6,000 years. They are one of this richest sources of anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids (although not the same type that fish, such as salmon, do) along with antioxidant substances called lignans that help promote hormonal balance. In addition, flaxseeds are a great source of protein and fiber, and they contain important micronutrients like manganese, thiamine and magnesium. They support regularity and keep you feeling full. The oil in them promotes brain health. Since whole flaxseeds will pass right through you without being digested, it is recommended that you consume them as ground flaxseed meal.
Hemp Seeds
Hemp seeds are loaded with important nutrients. In addition to supplying a good amount of protein and healthy fats, hemp seeds are also packed with manganese, vitamin E and magnesium. They are also loaded with antioxidants which can help protect the body against chronic disease. Hemp seeds are rich in healthy fats that support skin health. In addition, hemp seeds are rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and GLA rich foods have been observed to support heart health, blood sugar balance, and other health issues.
Pumpkin Seeds
Not only are pumpkin seeds high in healthy fats and protein, but they’re also rich in manganese, magnesium and phosphorus . They are also full of antioxidants and fiber. The combination of protein and fiber allows them to slow the absorption of sugar into the blood stream which helps keep blood sugar levels balanced. The iron in them helps prevent iron-deficiency anemia. Pumpkin seed, and pumpkin seed oil in particular, has been shown to boost heart health. Finally, the magnesium and amino acid tryptophan in them give the powerful seeds the ability to enhance sleep quality,
Sunflower Seeds
Adding sunflower seeds to your diet is an easy way to boost your intake of antioxidants, thiamine, selenium, and manganese. Sunflower seeds help keep skin healthy, maintain healthy cholesterol levels and support healthy blood sugar levels. They also help reduce inflammation. Thanks to their high content of vitamin E, adding sunflower seeds into your diet could help reduce chronic inflammation, a condition that’s believed to contribute to a wide array of diseases. All seeds contain phytosterols, which are beneficial plant compounds that block the absorption of cholesterol in the body. But sunflower seeds are one of the highest making it particularly helpful for maintaining heart health.
Chia Seeds
Compared to other types of seeds, chia seeds are one of the best sources of fiber available. This makes them particularly useful for digestive health. They also supply a good amount of manganese, phosphorus and calcium, as well as protein and heart-healthy fats. They are high in protein and the calcium which helps to strengthen bones. Other benefits of chia seeds are they support increased energy levels, balanced blood sugar, and they fight free radical damage,
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