Are Sunflower Seeds Healthy? Here ’s What Experts Say

Certain seeds, like chia and flax, tend to hog the nutritional spotlight. But the less-trendy sunflower seed has plenty of qualities worth highlighting. Here are the health benefits of sunflowers seeds, according to dietitians. Are sunflower seeds healthy? Sunflower seeds are rich in nutrients. One serving of shelled sunflower seeds is usually an ounce, which is about 1/4 cup or 4 tablespoons (one to two thumb-sized portions.) They’re particularly high in healthy fat: A serving delivers 14 grams of fat with a mix of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. “The mono- and polyunsaturated fats in sunflower seeds show a clear health benefit, especially related to heart health and risk of cardiovascular disease,” says registered dietitian Alissa Rumsey. A serving of the seeds also contains about 6 grams of protein and 2.5 grams of fiber. “Fat, fiber and protein play an important role in satiety, the feeling of fullness,” says Rumsey. The seeds are also loaded with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E (which has strong anti-inflammatory properties and may reduce risk of heart disease), folate (important for DNA synthesis), phosphorus (key for bone health), selenium (an antioxidant that protects against cell damage), manganese (which helps with bone production), copper (which helps with heart health and immune function), B6 (good for cognitive development and function) and zinc (important for metabolism and immune function), says registered di...
Source: TIME: Health - Category: Consumer Health News Authors: Tags: Uncategorized Diet/Nutrition Source Type: news