All About Super Seeds

In the last few years, ‘superfood’ has become a household term, and often, the lists of these foods include seeds. But why are seeds so nutritionally important?

Well, seeds are kind of like cells: they pack a massive punch in terms of a ton of content within a tiny casing. A single cell contains all of the information necessary for life. Similarly, a single seed contains enough diverse nutrition to sustain life.

Here are some particularly amazing examples of super seeds:

Flax

A great source of soluble fiber, flax lowers cholesterol and makes you feel full longer, which is why adding 1/3 cup of natura fiber to smoothies can keep you satiated for hours! These seeds are also packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for brain health–especially in children.

These wonder seeds are also associated with boosting eye health, as they can lower the risk of age-related macular degeneration. Studies also show that may help prevent certain cancers.

Fun fact: Natura fiber is comprised of over 90% ground flax.

Hemp

A complete protein, hemp promotes healthy hair and skin thanks to an abundance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Plus, they contain phytosterols, which are plant-based compounds that lower cholesterol.

Phytosterols for the win!

Chia

Chia seeds are super high in iron and folate (both essential nutrients), as well as bone-boosting calcium and magnesium. They also contain omega-3 fatty acids and soluble fiber, which makes them perfect to add to smoothies, granola and salads.

Sachi Inchi

Although sacha inchi seeds have been cultivated in Peru for centuries, they’re pretty much new to the western health food world. Also called the Inca peanut, sacha inchi is revered as being among the best plant sources of omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids.

This equals major brain boosting power packed into a teeny, tiny seed.

Sunflower

These are an excellent source of folate, which boosts immunity, and vitamin E–an antioxidant that protects cells from damage-and may help to prevent cancer.

Sesame

Sesame is one of the oldest oil crops known. High in antioxidants and rich in protein, the seeds are also a source of zinc, which can boost sexual health in men–it helps with testosterone and sperm production!

Pumpkin

Also called pepitas, pumpkin seeds are a tasty source of iron, zinc, B vitamins, magnesium and protein, and have a high concentration of the amino acid tryptophan, which helps lower anxiety levels.

So what are you waiting for? The next time you’re in a grocery store, head to the bulk foods aisle and load up on seeds–you can use them in almost anything, and your body will be sure to thank you.