Superfoodshave gained a lot of attention over the past year, and for good reason. They provide essential nutrients the body needs to function properly such as antioxidants, minerals, vitamins, and polyphenols.
However, many people have become so obsessed with superfoods that they have neglected the importance of seeds — “superfood” seeds — and the benefits that they also have on overall health and well-being.
The 10 Healthiest ‘Superfood’ Seeds
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Superfoodshave gained a lot of attention over the past year, and for good reason. They provide essential nutrients the body needs to function properly such as antioxidants, minerals, vitamins, and polyphenols.
However, many people have become so obsessed with superfoods that they have neglected the importance of seeds — “superfood” seeds — and the benefits that they also have on overall health and well-being.
Flax Seeds
The health benefits of this popular health-conscious food are more than what meets the eye. Flaxseeds contain lignans, omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and fiber. Adding them to your diet may help prevent cancer, improve your heart health, aid your digestive system, help improve blood glucose control in diabetics, and even reduce inflammation associated with arthritis.
Cumin Seeds
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These seeds are commonly used in Middle Eastern, Indian, and Mexican cooking. They are an excellent source of iron and keep your immune system healthy. Cumin seeds also aid in digestion and they have anti-carcinogenic properties.
Hemp Seeds
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Balance your hormones, improve your digestion, and enhance your metabolism with hemp seeds. They are a great source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which promote cardiovascular health, Dr. Axe explains. They are also rich in soluble and un-soluble fiber that helps reduce sugar cravings and naturally cleanses the colon.
Sunflower Seeds
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Sunflower seeds are full of the necessary vitamins and minerals that your body needs to properly function; some of which include vitamin E, copper, and vitamin B1. Vitamin E promotes healthy circulation and helps to protect your cells against free radicals; copper supports your metabolism; and vitamin B1 helps to activate the enzymes within your cells and drive chemical reactions your cells need to function, SFGATE explains.
Chia Seeds
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Many of us know chia seeds as a weight loss enhancement that helps you feel full faster and reduce cravings. However, chia seeds actually contain a great amount of omega-3s and have been proven to be very beneficial for vision. Eat them raw, sprinkle them on salads, and/or mix them in your morning smoothie.
Pumpkin Seeds
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If you’re not consuming enough magnesium, you should consider adding pumpkin seeds to your diet. One serving contains about half of your daily recommended value. Other foods high in magnesium include nuts, whole grains, and dark green vegetables.
Pomegranate Seeds
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These delicious seeds will do wonders for your health. They contain vitamin C, which helps boost immunity, and they are high in fiber, which makes them a great seed for weight loss. Fiber helps you avoid overeating because it makes you feel fuller for longer.
Sesame Seeds
A popular ingredient in many Asian dishes, sesame seeds are both popular and healthy. They contain plenty of vitamins and minerals, some of which include copper, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, fiber, vitamin B1, and phosphorus. They have been proven to help lower high blood pressure and prevent migraines.
Mustard Seeds
Mustard seeds are known for their unique healing properties. They are a rich source of selenium, which helps reduce asthma symptoms and prevent cancer, and magnesium, which helps lower high blood pressure and reduce the frequency of migraines.
Grape Seeds
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These seeds are full of powerful antioxidants, which are well-known for helping to destroy free radicals in the body. A study found that “a grape seed extract beverage improved blood pressure in people with pre-hypertension, while a single dose of grape seed extract improved blood pressure in hypertensive rats,” Dr. Mercola explains. They have also been shown to improve blood circulation and flexibility in joints, body tissues, and arteries.