Kuaci or sunflower seeds, small snacks that have big nutrients

Sunflower seeds or kuaci have long been popular as a healthy snack. Usually, this food can be consumed directly as a snack or mixed with other foods as a complement.

What makes kuaci healthy, of course, is its nutritional content. There are various nutrients that can be found in this small food, ranging from protein, fat, carbohydrates, to fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Sulfur-rich protein present in sunflower seeds is beneficial for many biological processes, including muscle and bone development. Sunflower seeds are also enriched with antioxidants such as flavonoids and phenolics. Incorporating sunflower seeds into your daily diet can provide many benefits.

Kuaci has anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antibacterial properties and can help heal wounds. These benefits come from compounds that sunflower seeds have such as phenols, tannins, and saponins. Sunflower seeds are also known to be rich in carotenoids and tocopherols which act as antioxidants. Both can help prevent damage from free radicals.

People with diabetes can produce advanced glycation end products that can damage the body. Sunflower seeds have compounds that can inhibit this.

Cynarin in sunflower seeds can also lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels. Therefore, consumption of sunflower seeds also has potential to benefit people with hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia..

There are omega-6 fatty acids in sunflower seeds. Omega-6 fatty acids play an important role in maintaining healthy skin. Deficiency of essential fatty acids can significantly affect function and appearance of skin. In addition, content of zinc and several other minerals in sunflower seeds is also good for supporting bone health.

Although sunflower seeds are a healthy food, there are some risks to consider when consuming them. One of them is allergies.

People with allergies are advised not to consume sunflower seeds. While people who are sensitive to seeds have the possibility to be able to consume sunflower oil.

Keep in mind that sometimes sunflower seeds contain harmful bacteria. This bacterium is usually found in sunflower seeds that are planted alone or sunflower seeds that have sprouted. Choose sunflower seeds that will be consumed properly to avoid this risk.

Although healthy, sunflower seeds should also be consumed in moderation. The reason is because sunflower seeds have a fairly high calorie. So keep your snack portions in order to stay healthy and fit.