Health Risks From Sunflower Seeds

Sunflower seeds are one of the healthier and natural things a person can eat but can be harmful in bulk or if the sunflower seeds are processed and coated with unhealthy additives.

High Blood Pressure and Sodium Diets

• Those with diets that limit the amount of sodium they can in-take in a day should avoid junk or snack sunflower seed snacks that are coated in large amounts of salt. Sunflower seeds can be found without a flavored coating for a healthier alternative.

Weight Gain

• If you are losing weight or trying to maintain a healthy weight, use caution. Overeating sunflower seeds can cause you to gain weight due to their high calorie and fat content.

Sunflower Seed Allergies

• Allergic reactions to sunflower seeds are rare, but those who are allergic can experience symptoms worse than a peanut allergy. People who are allergic to nuts should make sure their sunflower seeds were not packed in a nut facility.

Health Benefits of Sunflower Seeds

• While they are fatty and higher in calories than other snack foods, natural sunflower seeds provide an excellent source of fiber, protein and other essential vitamins and minerals.

Considerations

• Sunflower seeds are only bad for you if you purchase sunflower seeds that have been coated in unhealthy seasonings and if they are eaten without controlling the amount of fat or calories you intake daily.