7 Super Seeds With Health and Body Benefits
Here, your guide to the nutritional powerhouses.
Pomegranate for Slimming
Nature’s “sweet tarts”—the juicy seed is a low-cal winner. It’s packed with antioxidants and fat-burning vitamin C. Spoon onto toast with PB, hold the J.
36 calories per 1/4 cup, 1 gram fat, 2 g fiber, 1 g protein
Hemp for Toned Muscles
It’s one of the few vegetarian sources of complete protein, meaning it contains all 20 amino acids, key to building calorie-burning muscle. Sprinkle some in a postworkout shake for a pine nut–like flavor.
90 calories per 2 tbsp, 6 g fat, 2 g fiber, 5 g protein
Chia for Strong Bones
Eat this earthy-tasting seed for its calcium—2 tbsp offers as much as a slice of cheddar! Mix 1/2 cup with 2 1/2 cups unsweetened almond milk, 1 tbsp maple syrup and cinnamon to taste, and chill for a tapiocalike pudding.
138 calories per 2 tbsp, 9 g fat, 10 g fiber, 5 g protein
Pum
The light and nutty pepita houses iron, a mineral that helps maintain high energy levels. Roast 1 cup seeds with 1/2 tsp each paprika, chili powder and sea salt for an easy to-go snack.
158 calories per 2 tbsp, 14 g fat, 2 g fiber, 9 g protein
Sesame for a Healthy Heart
The rich seed contains linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid that may help control harmful cholesterol. Toasting amplifies flavor and adds a nice crunch to salads.
103 calories per 2 tbsp, 9 g fat, 2 g fiber, 3 g protein
Flax for Cancer Prevention
Nutty flax has cancer-thwarting compounds called lignans and omega-3 fatty acids that reduce disease-causing inflammation. Sub three parts ground flaxseed for one part butter in baked goods.
110 calories per 2 tbsp, 9 g fat, 6 g fiber, 4 g protein
Wheat Germ for Digestion
A small part of a wheat kernel, this slightly sweet seed has inulin, a type of fiber that helps maintain good digestion. Healthify muffins by trading half the flour for wheat germ.
52 calories per 2 tbsp, 1 g fat, 2 g fiber, 3 g protein
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.