The sunflower name comes from the Greek words helios (sun) and anthos (flower). It got its name because the flowers turn toward the sun. One sunflower head can produce up to 1,000 seeds.

Some people think sunflower seeds are for the birds. Often you can watch birds at a feeder, picking through all the other seeds to get to the prized sunflower seed. Birds are smart! Sunflowers, however, aren’t just for the birds. Sunflower seeds offer health benefits to humans. The seeds are both delicious and nutritious.

Whether eaten raw or toasted, a handful a day, just might keep the doctor away. These little gems are packed with nutrients. In fact, they are considered by many to be the most perfect in nutrients.

The seeds are a dark gray and green in color and covered encased in an oval black shell. They have a slight nutty taste and a tender texture.The health benefits of sunflower seeds can be enjoyed by making them a part of one's daily diet.

They can be consumed raw or toasted as a healthy, convenient snack or can be added to salads, breads and pancakes. They are easily available in stores and supermarkets and can be stored for long. Their consumption will ensure the prevention of a number of health problems and a long and healthy life.

Nutrient Content

Sunflower seeds are chock full of vitamin E, B1, manganese, magnesium, tryptophan and selenium, as well as other important nutrients such as phosphorus, B5, and folate.

Health Benefits of Sunflower Seeds

• Sunflower seeds are an excellent source of vitamin E. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals in the body. Vitamin E also helps prevent free radicals from oxidizing cholesterol, which means reduction and prevention of atherosclerosis, a condition that can lead to heart attack and stroke.
  
  
• Selenium is an important trace mineral which works in conjunction with vitamin E to impart antioxidant properties, that prevent the formation of cancerous cells and heart problems. Selenium promotes DNA repair, induces apoptosis and synthesis of damaged cells. This is an important sunflower seeds health benefi

• Fiber that sunflower seeds contain, promote easy digestion and prevents constipation, lowers blood cholesterol levels and manages blood sugar levels. These fibers also help control weight and prevent obesity.

• Sunflower kernels are rich in phenolic acids, simple molecules that are easily absorbed by the human body and provide a host of anti-aging benefits. Phenolic acids are also useful as anti-inflammatory agents and immune system-boosters.

• sunflower seeds can actually have a calming effect on your brain. This is due to high levels of tryptophan contained within the seeds. When you consume foods that have tryptophan, it effectively increases your brain's production of serotonin (a neurotransmitter). High levels of serotonin reduce tension which creates a relaxing effect.

• Magnesium can help decrease high blood pressure, lessen the severity of asthma, prevent migraines, and reduce ones risk of a stroke or heart attack.
  
  
• One of the reasons why many athletes enjoy eating sunflower seeds is that they provide a supply of protein and carbohydrates. Both are important for maintaining energy levels while training or competing.

Sunflower Seed Recipe

Banana Sunflower Seed Cookies Recipe

Ingredients

• 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 very ripe medium bananas, peeled and mashed
• 1/2 cup butter, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup granulated white sugar
• 1/2 cup shelled sunflower seeds
• 1/2 cup miniature chocolate chips or dried fruit

Method

• Whisk together flour and baking soda in a small bowl. Set aside. 

• In a large bowl, beat bananas, butter, and sugar on medium speed until thoroughly combined. 
  
  Add flour mixture half at a time, beating to incorporate. Fold in sunflower seeds and chocolate chips. 

• Refrigerate cookie dough for 45 minutes to 1 hour. (Cold dough helps keep the cookies from spreading.) 

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line baking sheets with Silpats or parchment paper. 

• Scoop about 1 teaspoonful of cookie dough for each cookie and place 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets. Bake 12 to 15 minutes until edges are lightly golden. (Yield: about 36 cookies)