Sunflowers. The word probably has you imagining a bright field overflowing with vibrant yellow flowers proudly facing the sun. These happy florals can be harvested for a superfood known as sunflower seeds.
Sunflower seeds may be an unassuming part of your trail mix; however, these tasty snacks have great benefits, especially for female health. According to Lewisville Women’s Care’s leading gynecologist, Dr. Munira Dudhbhai, “Sunflower seeds have a rich nutritional profile, they promote skin health and hormone balance, so they are quite beneficial for women, especially those who want to conceive.”
So, in this blog, let’s learn why women should incorporate sunflower seeds as a part of their daily diet and how they affect female fertility. Continue scrolling to know more about how this delicious yet powerful food can help you achieve your health goals.
Why Should Women Eat Sunflower Seeds?
Women can benefit from sunflower seeds as they are an excellent source of vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that aids skin health and hormonal balance. This key vitamin can help combat signs of aging and encourage healthy cell division.
Healthline says sunflower seeds are a good source of beneficial plant compounds like phenolic acids and flavonoids. Sunflower seeds are also a source of magnesium, which helps relieve menstrual cramps and provides relief during the menstrual cycle.
Its high vitamin E content makes it a superstar for women in the menopausal stages of life, as it can help relieve menopause discomfort by reducing the frequency of hot flashes, mood swings, vaginal dryness, and insomnia. Sunflower seeds have been effective in balancing estrogen and progesterone, which can promote hormonal balance in people with conditions such as PCOS.
Additionally, sunflowers and other seeds are part of a holistic method for balancing hormones known as seed cycling. Although seed cycling has little to no scientific basis, it’s a good practice in incorporating nutrient-dense seeds into one’s diet.
Are Sunflower Seeds Food For Female Fertility?
Research suggests that sunflower seeds contain essential nutrients that can improve reproductive health. The reason is that they support hormone balance and ovarian function.
They also contain zinc and selenium, vital in reproductive health as they support immune function and reduce oxidative stress. Sunflower seeds are rich in vitamin E, which can improve implantation and result in successful pregnancies for women with unexplained fertility.
Hence, sunflower seeds play an important role in every step of female fertility. So, if you’re looking to conceive, adding sunflower seeds to your diet is a good idea.
What Happens When You Eat Sunflower Seeds Daily
Eating sunflower seeds every day can make sure you enjoy this superfood’s various health benefits. Here is what you can expect if you eat sunflower seeds every day.
Reduced Inflammation
The anti-inflammatory properties of the vitamin E found in sunflower seeds can lower inflammation in the body.
Improved Heart Health
Sunflower seeds are a source of healthy fats, so consuming an appropriate amount can lower cholesterol levels and improve blood pressure regulations.
Support Bone Health
The magnesium in sunflower seeds can help keep your bones strong.
Improve Skin Health
Vitamin E has anti-aging properties as it promotes skin elasticity and protects against UV damage.
Improved Energy Levels
The combination of protein, healthy fats, and vitamin B in sunflower seeds can boost your energy.
Ways You Can Add Sunflower Seeds to Your Diet
So, now that we’ve established all the benefits of sunflower seeds, how do you make sure that you have enough of these every day? Firstly, it helps greatly that sunflower seeds have a great savory taste.
You can just simply have them in place of your daily popcorn by eating them raw or roasted as a healthy snack. If you’re not so fond of eating them individually, they’re a great salad topper as they have a distinct crunch.
Sunflower seeds are also a great way to make your regular bread a little more nutritious; add them to your bread or muffin recipes for a buttery taste and crunch. Sunflower seeds can also be made into butter for your morning toast.
If you’re squirmy about sunflower seeds, don’t click away; blending them into a smoothie can provide a nutrient boost while hiding them. If you’re on a time limit, they make a great grab-and-go snack in the form of a trail mix or granola.
Due to their versatility, there are endless possibilities for mixing sunflower seeds into your daily diet. Dr. Dudhbai advises, “For women looking to incorporate sunflower seeds into their diet, the recommended daily intake is 30 to 60 grams. Since they’re relatively high in calories, this amount can allow you to enjoy the nutritional advantages without excessive calorie consumption.”
Takeaway
Commercial vitamin pills and mixes may help fulfill your daily nutritional intake; some natural foods, such as sunflower seeds, can do that and more. They provide a tasty yet guilt-free snack that can help a woman with overall health and maybe the addition to your diet you need at any time during your cycle.
Annie Edith is an experienced journalist and content creator with a strong passion for health and wellness. She takes a unique approach to her writing, exploring the latest trends in Dental, Fitness, and mental well-being, while providing readers with informative, research-based articles.
