Benefits of Sunflower Seeds
July 11, 2009
For thousands of years, bright yellow sunflowers have been blossoming all over our planet. From being a flower used primarily for beautifying homes and extracting dyes, the seeds of sunflower and its oil have currently emerged as nutritious food for humans.
Nutrients in sunflower seeds
The sunflower seeds are a powerhouse of nutrients. It is rich in vitamin E, thiamine, manganese, magnesium, copper, selenium, phosphorous and folate.
Good for the heart
Sunflower seeds are one of the richest sources of vitamin E. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant. Studies have found that vitamin E is extremely beneficial for our heart. By obstructing oxidation of cholesterol, vitamin E prevents formation of plagues on walls of our cardiac blood vessels.
Individuals who consume adequate amount of vitamin E have lower risk of heart ailments caused by blocked arteries. Sunflower seeds also protect the heart by reducing the level of bad cholesterol in the blood. Sunflower seeds contain phytosterols.
The chemical structure of phytosterol is similar to the structure of cholesterol. This plant chemical is capable of lowering blood cholesterol level. High blood pressure increases the risk of strokes. Magnesium is one of the minerals that can normalize the blood pressure level. Sunflower is a good source of magnesium.
Fights inflammation
The antioxidant activity of vitamin E, present in sunflower seeds, could reduce inflammation. People suffering from arthritis and asthma can therefore benefit by consuming sunflower seeds.
Cancer prevention
Sunflower seeds contain selenium. Studies have found that selenium could be effective in preventing growth of malignant cells. Selenium is needed to accelerate repair of damaged DNA. It also helps the cell to manufacture DNA. It obstructs development of cancer cells and encourages the body to remove abnormal cells.
Selenium induces secretion of glutathione peroxidase, an enzyme noted for its powerful antioxidant property. Glutathione peroxidase helps the liver to eliminate toxins from our body. Low level of this enzyme in the body encourages accumulation of harmful toxins, which consequently damages the DNA and promotes growth of cancer cells.
Sunflower oil
Besides sunflower seeds, the oil extracted from sunflower seeds is also beneficial for health. It contains most of the nutrients of the seed. It is a rich source of the heart friendly monounsaturated acids. Presence of vitamin E makes sunflower oil beneficial for skin care.
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