The salty taste of sunflower seeds makes them one of the most beloved foods all over the globe.

But, did you know that in addition to fantastic taste, they are also quite healthy?

Here is a quick breakdown of some of the most impressive nutritional data found in 100 grams (just under a cup) of sunflower seeds: nine grams of fiber, 19.4 grams of protein, 26.1 grams of vitamin E, 129 milligrams of magnesium, 79.4 micrograms of selenium, 69 milligrams of omega-3 fatty acid and 3.28 milligrams of omega-6 fatty acid.

Fiber, protein and magnesium levels will give you over 30 percent of the recommended daily allowance of each, while fat portions of vitamin E and selenium can take away over 100 percent of your recommended daily allowance.

Vitamin E is known for its benefits to the skin, but studies show that it is also helpful in reducing certain signs of inflammation leading to a higher risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

Another study that observed 6,000 adults eating sunflower seeds once a week, several times a week, or more than five times a week, showed that those who consumed more had a significant drop in inflammatory marker levels thanks to all of this vitamin E.

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Food has also been shown to lower cholesterol, according to Nutrition magazine.

Researchers explain how the abundance of omega fatty acids in sunflower seeds helps blood vessels relax, reducing problems such as high blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol.

Adding sunflower to high-carbohydrate foods like bread was also shown in another study, that it helps to slow down the processing of sugar from carbohydrates and keep blood sugar levels under control.

Of course, tasty salty food is not surprisingly high in sodium (410 milligrams per 100 grams), so it is important to be careful with this if you already have sodium problems.

Sunflower seeds are often packed with an element called cadmium, a heavy metal that can cause kidney damage if you overdo it.

Be sure to consult your doctor if you have had any previous problems with sodium levels or kidney function before adding more of these seeds to your diet.

Otherwise, enjoy this snack and all the healthy benefits whenever you want!

/ Telegraphy /