Sunflower seeds are considered one of the super foods. Not many are aware of this, but sunflower seeds are packed with various essential nutrients. Since this super food falls under the category of nuts, some might feel that consuming sunflower seeds while pregnant could be harmful for the baby and the mother.

To break this notion, we list below the health benefits of sunflower seeds and also speculate whether or not it is safe to consume sunflower seeds during pregnancy.

• Health Benefits of Sunflower Seeds In Pregnancy
• Is It Safe To Consume Sunflower Seeds During Pregnancy?
• Some Tips To Consume Sunflower Seeds During Pregnancy

Health Benefits of Sunflower Seeds In Pregnancy

• Helps to prevent cancer: Cancer is mainly caused because of uncontrolled oxidation that takes place in the body. Sunflower seeds act as antioxidants and helps to prevent oxidation, hence protecting the body against cancer cells. Sunflower seeds are a rich source of Selenium that detoxifies the body and rids the body of damaged cells. Selenium specifically helps to keep breast cancer at bay. These seeds also have a high content of Vitamin E which is known to reduce the risk of lung cancer and colon cancer
• Keeps the blood sugar level under control: The presence of magnesium in sunflower seeds effectively stabilizes the blood sugar level. When consumed right after a meal, sunflower seeds will successfully control the hike of sugar in the blood stream
• Helps to reduce cholesterol: Phytosterols is a compound known to beat cholesterol and fortunately sunflower seeds have a high content of phytosterols. Not only this, but sunflower seeds are loaded with mono-unsaturated fats that help to reduce the production of bad cholesterol in the body. Sunflower seeds also contain a vitamin called niacin, which also helps to reduce cholesterol in the body
• Aids digestion: Sunflower seeds are rich in fiber. Fiber cleans and detoxifies the digestive system and ensures smooth digestion. Fiber also helps to prevent and reduce constipation
• Prevents heart diseases: Cholesterol when oxidizes in the body, could result in heart attack or blocked arteries. Since Sunflower Seeds are packed with antioxidants it prevents the oxidation of cholesterol. Hence preventing cardiovascular diseases
• Strengthens the bones: It is scientifically proven that magnesium is essential for the growth of healthy skeletal structure, making sunflower seeds a vital source of nutrient to aid healthy bone development and prevent osteoporosis. These seeds also contain copper which aids elasticity and making the joints strong and flexible
• Contains anti-inflammatory properties: Vitamin E is a good neutralizer that neutralizes free radicals that could damage brain cells and good cholesterol. Vitamin E is highly non inflammatory in nature and hence keeps asthma, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis at bay. It also significantly helps with hot flashes in women going through menopause
• Ensures healthy skin: Vitamin E present in sunflower seeds is a powerful antioxidant which is essential to maintain healthy skin. It also protects skin from sun damage and pollution and keeps the skin nourished, glowing and healthy
• Fights depression: Niacin, found in sunflower seeds accelerate the GABA activity in the brain cells which helps to curb anxiety and depression. Sunflower seeds also contain magnesium which helps to correct mood disorders and reduce depression

Is It Safe To Consume Sunflower Seeds During Pregnancy?

Sunflower seeds are not only safe but also essential during pregnancy. Sunflower seeds are a rich source of folic acid. Folic acid is essential for the growth and development of a healthy baby. Folic acid and vitamin b present in sunflower seeds prevent birth defects. Deficiency of folic acid during pregnancy can lead to cleft lip and spina bifida. It could also affect the expecting mother and can cause pre-eclampsia and hypertension. Hence, make sure that your meal contains a generous amount of folic acid and other nutrients and what other way to incorporate some of it in your diet by snacking on some sunflower seeds.

Some Tips To Consume Sunflower Seeds During Pregnancy

Sunflower seeds are quite versatile and you can incorporate them in your diet in many ways. You can add a handful to your salad to give your salad a nutty crunchy flavour. You can even add some to your dosa or pancake batter. A garnish of roasted sunflower seeds on fried rice or sautéed vegetables can lift up your dish to another level. Top your stir fried vegetables and noodles with some sunflower seeds to add some crunch to the dish. The best and easiest way to consume roasted sunflower seeds is to consume them as it is, like a snack. Just make sure you don’t go over board and always bear in mind that too much of anything is bad for you and even the baby.