When I first started using seeds in my smoothies, that was just the tip of the iceberg as far as using seeds go.
Besides being a healthy food to add to your grocery list, seeds can have many, many health benefits. And the best part is they are very easy to add to almost any meal.
Some of them can be added to salads, smoothies, and baked goods.
Here’s to the 9 seeds that you should consider adding to your pantry the next time you go shopping.
1. Pumpkin seeds
Benefits:
- high in zinc, making them a good choice to prevent prostate problems
- high in essential fatty acids which help lower LDL cholesterol
- contain more iron than liver (by weight)
- can be used as a mild laxative
2. Hemp seeds
Benefits:
- contains the perfect balance of all three omega fatty acids (3,6, and 9), which help improve brain & heart health
- help maintain gastrointestinal health
- helps lower cholesterol
- promotes hormonal balance in the body
- help to reduce inflammation
3. Poppy seeds
Benefits:
- helps protect the heart due to the monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats content
- can be used as a remedy for diarrhea
- in tea form can be used as a remedy for anxiety and nervousness
4. Sesame seeds
Benefits:
- helps the body fight UV sun damage in skin cells
- can inhibit the production of cholesterol in the liver & reduce the absorption of cholesterol from the diet
- good for the skin due to the vitamin E content
- can help decrease blood pressure
- protects the liver from toxic damage
- high in calcium – great for healthy bones & teeth
5. Chia seeds
Benefits:
- can be used as an energy booster
- can help stimulate bowel function due to its fiber content
- help lowers the LDL cholesterol & triglycerides
- high in calcium for healthy bones & teeth
- helps stabilize blood sugar levels
6. Alfalfa seeds
Benefits:
- helps remove toxins from the blood
- helps lower blood pressure
- acts as a natural diuretic
- acts as a blood thinner due to the coumarin content
- aids in good digestion
- promotes better hormonal balance in women
7. Red clover seeds
Benefits:
- can help relieve menopausal symptoms
- good source of calcium for strong bones & teeth
- helps to lower blood pressure
- improves blood circulation
- reduces the risk of heart disease
8. Flaxseeds
- can lower LDL cholesterol
- acts as a hunger suppressant making you feel fuller longer
- balances blood sugar levels
- helps to lower triglycerides in the blood
- helps maintain eyes, joint, and brain health
9. Sunflower seeds
Benefits:
- excellent source of vitamin E so a good choice for the hair & skin
- contains anticancer properties
- helps support a healthy pregnancy
- maintains a healthy immune system
- maintains a healthy heart
Do you eat any of these seeds already? Which one is your favorite?
Resources for You
Neal’s Yard Remedies Healing Foods Book
Prescription for Dietary Wellness by Phyllis A. Balch, CNC, 2nd Edition, pages 127-129
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