This article will look at the health benefits of seeds. Have you ever eaten any type of seed before? Have you ever considered adding seeds to your diet? Here are a few seeds that can be easily added to one’s diet and their health benefits.
1. CHIA SEEDS
These are edible seeds of Salvia hispanica, a flowering plant in the mint family. Chia is the ancient word for “strength”.
Chia seeds are very popular among the health conscious and have tons of nutrients and minerals. They contain fibre, protein, fat, calcium, potassium, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, zinc, vitamins B1,B2 and B3. They are also high in anti-oxidants and omega 3 fatty acids (more than salmon).
Chia seeds can be added to the diet in cereals, porridges, smoothies or yogurt.
2. SESAME SEEDS
These are tiny seeds rich in protein, fibre and the amino acids tryptophan and methionine.
Sesame seeds can be sprinkled on salads or stir fry dishes as a way to add to ones diet.
3. SUNFLOWER SEEDS
These seeds are high in healthy fats, protein, fiber, selenium, copper and magnesium. They are also considered one of the richest sources of Vitamin E.
To include in ones diet, sunflower seeds can be added as toppings for salads and stir fry dishes. They can also be added to baked goods like breads and muffins. Adding to cereals, yogurt and trail mixes is also another option. Crushed sunflower seeds can be used as a part of the batter for fried fish or chicken.
4. POPPY SEEDS
These tiny seeds contain calcium, phosphorus and iron. Phosphorus and calcium are essential for maintaining healthy bones. Poppy seeds are an excellent source of oleic acid, omega 3 fatty acids and fiber.
Poppy seeds can be easily added to salad dressings, pancakes, breads or vegetable dishes.
5. PUMPKIN SEEDS
Toasted pumpkin seeds are a good snack. They contain omega 3 fatty acids, proteins, amino acids, magnesium, zinc, iron and fiber.
Pumpkin seeds can be easily added to homemade granola, muffins, smoothies and oatmeal.
6. HEMP SEEDS
Hemp seeds contain omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids and proteins. They have a nutty flavour and can be added to salads, smoothies or yogurt. They can also be eaten plain.
7. WATERMELON SEEDS
Yes, watermelon seeds! We always just eat the watermelon and discard its seeds. Watermelon seeds contain magnesium and zinc in high quantities. They have more protein than almonds and peanuts. Niacin, folate, iron and healthy fats are other important minerals and vitamins in watermelon seeds.
Watermelon seeds can be sprouted or roasted before eating them.
8. FLAX SEEDS
Flax seeds contain omega 3 fatty acids, proteins, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, folate, Vitamins B1, B6. They can be added to salads or salad dressings, smoothies, yogurt, cereal or incorporated into baked goods like muffins or breads.
Try to add some of these seeds to your daily food intake. Share with me your favorite seeds.
