The usefulness of sunflower seeds is rarely questioned - the only serious case with them concerns the damage of tooth enamel during their regular teeth whitening. This can be easily avoided if they are peeled by hand or purchased already peeled.
100 grams of sunflower seeds have 584 calories, and compared to the required daily intake in percentages, they contain: protein - 42% of the required amount for the day; dietary fiber - 36%; thiamine , vitamin B 1 - 129%; niacin , B 3 - 56%; vitamin B 6 - 103% and vitamin E - 234%. The seeds are especially rich in minerals, in the same 100 grams are: iron - 40% of the required daily amount; magnesium - 92%; manganese - 93%; phosphorus - 94%; zinc - 53% and others.
The 100 grams are divided into approximately 5% water , 20% carbohydrates , 21% protein and 51% fat - monounsaturated and polyunsaturated , mainly represented by linoleic acid . It also contains many phytosterols , which are thought to lower blood cholesterol levels.
The seeds are especially useful for hair and skin problems because they contain nearly 50% of the required daily amount of honey. This element is used by the body to produce melanin - a protein pigment that gives skin and hair color. The melanin molecule absorbs some of the absorbed ultraviolet radiation from the sun, protecting the underlying tissues from radiation damage and rapid sunburn.
Peeled seeds can be consumed alone or as an addition to cereals, salads, pastries. If soaked under water overnight, they can be ground into a thick paste, which can be added to soups for better texture and taste or used to spread on sandwiches.