4 seeds for good health

TOI

24 Sep 2012: Seeds should be eaten regularly or eaten as a pastime activity, whichever suits. Why? Because it tastes good and it’s also very healthy.

 

Seeds are meant to be eaten and not discarded. It is a rich source of antioxidants and vitamins which is essential for a healthy mind and body. Sunflower seed, flax-seed, pumpkin and sesame seeds are delicious natural foods with unsaturated fats.

 

Sunflower seeds are rich in Vitamin E which can help the circulatory system function perform better. It also has a calming effect on your brain because of high levels of tryptophan which creates a relaxing effect. Baking these seeds with a sprinkling of salt makes it crunchy and even more palatable.

 

Pumpkin seeds are delicious and healthy. These seeds have properties that help alleviate inflammation without any side effect. It has properties which alleviate depression without any side effects that is caused by medications. It can be roasted with salt and pepper for better taste.

 

Watermelon seeds are often not eaten along with the fruit. In fact, sun dried watermelon seeds are very popular. It contains iron, potassium, vitamins, fats and calories which is important for everyday nutrition. Watermelon seeds should be chewed before swallowing if its nutritional content is desired.

 

Sesame seeds are considered most mineral-rich foods in the world. It is rich in calcium, magnesium, copper, iron, manganese, zinc, vitamins, and fiber. They are rich in anti-cancer lignin which is found in sesame seeds. Grind the seeds and mix it with salads and veggies to ensure a healthy meal.

 

Seeds are healthy, edible and yummy. Eating just the flesh of the fruit is a wasteful idea. Next time you eat a fruit or a vegetable, remember to eat those seeds as well. Chucking them away means throwing away a lot of goodness and health benefits.