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Sunflower Seeds

Sunflower seeds are small seeds loaded with healthy fats and minerals.

Sunflower seeds have a mild, nutty flavor with a firm but soft texture. They’re green and gray in color with a very small tear-drop shape. They’re harvested from the sunflower where they have a hull (hard exterior) and a kernel (soft interior). They can be purchased either with or without the hull on the outside, yet when purchased with the exterior they are often salted or flavored. 

Health Benefits of Sunflower Seeds:

Sunflower seeds are incredibly mineral and antioxidant rich. The antioxidant vitamin E is particularly great for aiding the body in its fight against free radicals that would otherwise damage our cell membranes, brain cells, and fat-containing molecules. Vitamin E also works to decrease inflammation, the root cause of many diseases. 

The phytosterols in sunflower seeds have also been linked to lowering cholesterol and decreasing cancer risk. Sunflower seeds’ magnesium content has been shown to help reduce muscle aches and blood pressure in addition to prevent migraines and reducing heart disease. Another key mineral in sunflower seeds is selenium, which helps the body support liver detoxification and protect itself from cancer!

Nutrient Breakdown of Sunflower Seeds:

*Per 1 cup shelled

How To Use:

Sunflower seeds are often consumed alone as a snack either with or without the husk. They can also be used in smoothies, oatmeal, porridge, granola, muesli, salads, baked goods and trail mixes. They’re great either roasted or raw, and they can also be used to make homemade nut butters or nut milk.

Recipes:

Sunflower Seed Risotto 

Lemon Poppy Seed Muffin

Spicy Sweet Nut And Seed Mix

NS Recommends:

If purchasing seeds in bulk, store half in the freezer to keep from going rancid and keep the rest in the pantry for quick use!