Beyond chia and flax: 5 seeds for better health
What's the story
Seeds are tiny powerhouses of nutrition that can significantly enhance wellness, especially for beginners looking to improve their health naturally.
While many people are familiar with common seeds like chia and flax, there are several lesser-known seeds that offer unique benefits.
These seeds can be easily incorporated into daily diets, providing essential nutrients and promoting overall well-being.
Here are five unexpected seeds that can boost your wellness journey.
#1
Pumpkin seeds: A nutrient powerhouse
Pumpkin seeds, or pepitas, are loaded with magnesium, zinc, and healthy fats.
They promote heart health by regulating blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Further, the high zinc levels in pumpkin seeds also promote immune function and skin health.
These versatile seeds can be consumed raw or roasted, and are a great addition to salads or smoothies.
#2
Sunflower seeds: Heart-friendly snack
Sunflower seeds are rich in vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects cells from damage.
They also provide healthy fats that promote heart health by reducing inflammation and improving cholesterol.
Sunflower seeds are an easy snack on their own or can be sprinkled over dishes for extra crunch and nutrition.
#3
Hemp seeds: Protein-rich option
Hemp seeds serve as a complete protein source, delivering all nine essential amino acids required for muscle repair and growth.
They also deliver omega-3 fatty acids, which promote brain health and fight inflammation in the body.
With their mild, nutty taste, you can toss in some hemp seeds into yogurt or oatmeal for an added protein kick.
#4
Sesame seeds: Calcium source
Sesame seeds are an excellent source of calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
They also contain lignans, which have antioxidant properties supporting hormonal balance in the body.
Toasted sesame seeds add flavor when sprinkled over stir-fries or used as a topping on baked goods.
#5
Poppy seeds: Digestive aid
Poppy seeds may be tiny but they pack quite a punch when it comes to supporting digestion, courtesy their high fiber content.
This ensures regular bowel movements while keeping constipation problems at bay, especially among those who consume them regularly enough in every meal of the day without fail!