Sunflower Microgreens 101
If you love sunflowers for their beautiful flowers and delicious seeds, you’d love sunflower microgreens as well! Not only are they delicious, but sunflower microgreens offer numerous benefits when it comes to health and wellbeing.
Research has even shown that consuming them regularly can improve cognitive function and overall mood!
Nutritional Benefits of Sunflower Microgreens
Sunflower microgreens, sometimes called sunflower sprouts, are packed with essential nutrients like antioxidants and vitamins.
These tiny greens pack a big nutritional punch—they are rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, calcium, and iron, making them an excellent source of essential micronutrients. They also provide generous amounts of magnesium, vitamin C, B vitamins, proteins, enzymes, chlorophyll, minerals and omega-3's! They are also a great source of complete protein, meaning they contain all nine amino acids not naturally produced in the body. In addition, sunflower microgreens are high in fiber, acting as a prebiotic while nourishing good gut bacteria.
On top of that, sunflower microgreens contain important phytonutrients that have been linked to anti-inflammatory benefits as well as disease prevention. And if you're looking for antioxidants, then look no further! Sunflower microgreens contain polyphenols that may reduce oxidative stress in the body—which can help prevent chronic diseases as well as protect your health over time.
Eye Health Benefits of Sunflower Microgreens
Beta Carotene
This is a type of antioxidant that helps to protect cells from potentially harmful molecules and free radicals, while also helping the body turn the carotene into Vitamin A – an important vitamin for your vision health.
Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Sunflower microgreens are also a rich source of omega 3 fatty acids, which help decrease the risk of both dry eyes and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Omega 3 fatty acids can also help nourish the cells in your eyes to produce sebum, which helps keep your eyes moisturized.
Versatile Uses for Sunflower Microgreens
Sunflower microgreens have a unique flavor. Similar to sunflower seeds, sunflower microgreens have a nutty taste that can help bring out the flavor of other ingredients in dishes. Or you can simply enjoy them on their own for a snack that helps boost your energy without weighing you down with added fats or oils!
Similar to broccoli and radish microgreens, you can add sunflower microgreens to any meal from salads, to sandwiches and smoothies for vibrant colors, disease-fighting antioxidants and phytonutrients, as well as providing additional dietary fiber with an added crunch!
Growing Sunflower Microgreens at Home
Have you ever considered growing sunflower microgreens at home? Not only can it be a fun and rewarding hobby, but it can also have a positive impact on your health and wellbeing. BONUS - kids love it!!
Growing sunflower microgreens is incredibly easy, too. All you need is some organic soil, seeds, a shallow container, plenty of sunlight and water. Once you’ve planted the seeds, that's all there is to it—sunflower microgreens will be ready to harvest in about one to two weeks. Learn more on how to grow at home here.
Plus, growing your own sunflower microgreens means you can control the quality of the soil and water used in the process, so your crop will be as healthy as possible. Growing them yourself also ensures that they are always fresher than store-bought versions and free from any unnatural additives like herbicides and pesticides.
Sunflower microgreens are a delicious and nutritious way to nourish your body and mind. Packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, these tiny greens can easily be added to any meal and provide an incredibly nutrient-dense boost to your diet. Not only are they a powerhouse of nutrition, but their sweet and nutty flavor also make them a delight for your taste buds.
From enhancing immunity to reducing inflammation, the benefits of sunflower microgreens are seemingly endless. Whether you sprinkle them on your salads, blend them into smoothies or use them as a topping for soups, adding these nutrient-rich greens to your diet is a simple yet delicious way to nourish your body and mind.
Learn about more of our favorite microgreens here.