Seeds are a versatile ingredient that can be used to add a quick pop of texture and nutrition to nearly any meal.
From chia seed pudding to roasted pumpkin seeds to pine nut pesto and beyond, there are endless ways to squeeze in your daily dose of the healthiest seeds while bumping up your intake of protein, fiber and heart-healthy fats.
There are also protein powders that use seeds (or “super seeds”) as the plant-based protein.
Which seeds are good for health? What seeds should you eat daily? And what are the best seeds to eat for weight loss, heart health or better digestion? Let’s take a look at a few of the top super seeds for health that you should be eating.
What Are Seeds?
The official seeds definition is a type of embryonic plant that is surrounded by a protective outer covering. Seeds are produced by the ovule of the plant following its fertilization by pollen and composed of two main structures: the embryo and the seed coat.
Many types of seeds are edible and chock-full of important nutrients and health benefits. Sunflower seeds, hemp seeds and chia seeds are just a few examples of nutritious seeds that can easily be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet.
Seeds vs. Nuts
Many people confuse nuts and seeds — and for good reason. Both are incredibly nutritious and used to add a tasty crunch to dishes. However, botanically, the two are different. In fact, while seeds are classified as embryonic plants enclosed by an outer covering, nuts are actually considered a type of fruit composed of a hard shell and an edible seed.
That said, both nuts and seeds are loaded with important nutrients, such as fiber, protein and heart-healthy fats. Therefore, you should aim to include a good variety of healthy seeds and nuts in your diet to take advantage of the benefits that each has to offer.
Seeds vs. Grains
Grains are defined as small, hard, edible fruit from cereal grass plants, such as rice or wheat. Other common types of grains include millet, sorghum, barley, oats and rye. Because of their durability, grains are often considered staple foods in many areas around the globe.
Certain types of seeds are actually considered pseudocereal grains and are often used similarly to grains. Quinoa and chia seeds, for instance, are technically seeds but classified as pseudocereal grains as well.
Seeds vs. Beans
Beans are types of legumes that belong to the Fabaceae family of plants and can be considered seeds in some cases. In fact, legumes are actually defined as “the fruit or seed of plants of the legume family (such as peas or beans) used for food.”
Some of the most common types of beans include black beans, garbanzo beans, kidney beans and pinto beans. Like seeds, beans offer a good amount of fiber and protein in each serving as well as a wealth of micronutrients that are essential to health.
Benefits
1. Support weight loss goals
Incorporating a variety of healthy seeds for weight loss into your diet can be incredibly beneficial. This is because seeds are both high-fiber foods as well as high in protein, both of which are key to promoting healthy weight loss. Fiber moves through the digestive tract slowly to help keep you feeling fuller for longer.
Meanwhile, protein works to decrease levels of ghrelin, the hormone that stimulates feelings of hunger in the body. In one 2017 study out of Turkey, consuming chia seeds as part of a mid-morning snack increased satiety, reduced hunger and decreased cravings for sugary foods, all of which could potentially lead to weight loss.
2. Boost digestive health
In general, the healthiest seeds are typically high in dietary fiber, a nutrient that plays a central role in digestive health. Not only does it add bulk to the stool to promote regularity, but fiber has also been shown to protect against issues like hemorrhoids, diverticulitis, intestinal ulcers and constipation.
Fiber also helps feed the beneficial bacteria in the gut, which can have a huge impact on immune function, mental health, nutrient absorption and more.
3. Regulate blood sugar
The fiber found in seeds helps slow the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream, stabilizing blood sugar levels to prevent sudden spikes and crashes. Not only can this help prevent diabetes symptoms, but it may also protect against the development of chronic conditions like heart disease.
Certain types of seeds, such as flaxseed, have also been shown to improve insulin sensitivity. This allows insulin to work more efficiently in the body to keep blood sugar steady.
4. Fight free radical formation
Most of the healthiest seeds are jam-packed with manganese, an important micronutrient that plays a vital role in health. Not only is it used as a cofactor for many enzymes in the body, but manganese also acts as a powerful antioxidant to fight free radicals and protect cells against oxidative damage.
This can have far-reaching effects on nearly every aspect of health and may be especially beneficial in the prevention of conditions such as cancer, heart disease and diabetes.
5. Good source of plant-based protein
Adding a few servings of the healthiest seeds into your diet can bump up plant-based protein intake to help you meet your daily needs. Protein is vital to wound healing and tissue repair, immune function, muscle growth and more.
Not getting enough protein in your diet can have detrimental effects on health, resulting in symptoms like an increased risk of infection, greater appetite and stunted growth. Although the protein content of different seeds can vary pretty widely, most varieties offer around five to 10 grams of protein in each serving.
6. Incredibly nutrient-dense
In addition to providing a good amount of both protein and fiber in each serving, seeds also supply a wide range of other micronutrients as well. Hemp seeds, for example, are a great source of manganese and vitamin E, while sesame seeds are rich in copper and calcium.
One thing that all seeds have in common is that they are incredibly nutrient-dense foods and excellent additions to a healthy, balanced diet.
Healthiest Seeds to Eat
Adding a variety of seeds to your diet is an easy way to squeeze some extra nutrients into your day. So which are the healthiest seeds to eat? Here are the 10 best seeds for your health, plus a few of the main health benefits that each of the healthiest seeds below has to offer.
1. Flaxseeds
Flaxseeds are a great source of protein and fiber, as well as key micronutrients like manganese, thiamine and magnesium.
Two tablespoons of whole/unground flaxseed (considered about one serving) contains about:
- Calories: 110
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 6 g fiber
- Fat: 8.5 g fat
- Protein: 4 g
- Manganese: 0.6 mg (26% DV*)
- Thiamine/vitamin B1: 0.4 mg (22% DV)
- Magnesium: 80 mg (20% DV)
- Phosphorus: 132 mg (14% DV)
- Copper: 0.2 mg (12% DV)
- Selenium: 5 mcg (8% DV)
Benefits include:
- Supports regularity
- Supports weight loss efforts
- Keeps you feeling full
- High in bone-building manganese
- Promotes brain health
*Daily Value: Percentages are based on a diet of 2,000 calories a day.
2. Hemp Seeds
Hemp seeds are loaded with important nutrients. In addition to supplying a good amount of protein and healthy fats, hemp seeds are also packed with manganese, vitamin E and magnesium.
3 tablespoons (30 grams) of hulled hemp seeds contains about:
- Calories: 166
- Carbohydrates: 2.6 g
- Fiber: 1.2 g
- Fat: 14.6 g
- Protein: 9.5 g
- Manganese: 2.28 mg (99% DV)
- Copper: 0.5 mg (56% DV)
- Magnesium: 210 mg (50% DV)
- Phosphorus: 495 mg (40% DV)
- Thiamin: 0.38 mg (32% DV)
- Zinc: 3 mg (27% DV)
- Niacin: 2.76 mg (17% DV)
- Iron: 2.4 mg (13% DV)
- Potassium: 360 mg (8% DV)
- Folate: 33 mcg (8% DV)
Benefits include:
- Loaded with antioxidants
- Protects against chronic disease
- Supports skin health
- Rich in heart-healthy fats
- Promotes muscle growth
3. Pumpkin Seeds
Not only are pumpkin seeds high in healthy fats and protein, but they’re also rich in manganese, magnesium and phosphorus as well.
One ounce (about 28 grams) of dried, hulled pumpkin seeds contains approximately:
- Calories: 163
- Carbohydrates: 4.2 g
- Fiber: 1.8 g
- Fat: 13.9 g
- Protein: 8.5 g
- Manganese: 0.9 mg (43% DV)
- Magnesium: 151 mg (38% DV)
- Phosphorus: 332 mg (33% DV)
- Iron: 4.2 mg (23% DV)
- Copper: 0.4 mg (20% DV)
- Vitamin K: 14.5 mcg (18% DV)
- Zinc: 2.1 mg (14% DV)
Benefits include:
- Good source of antioxidants
- Enhances regularity
- Quick and convenient snack option
- High in plant-based protein
- Helps prevent iron-deficiency anemia
4. Poppy Seeds
Poppy seeds are a good source of fiber, plus contain a hearty dose of manganese and calcium.
One tablespoon (8.8 grams) of poppy seeds contains approximately:
- Calories: 46
- Carbohydrates: 2.5 g
- Fiber: 1.7 g
- Fat: 3.6 g
- Protein: 1.6 g
- Manganese: 0.6 mg (29% DV)
- Calcium: 126 mg (13% DV)
- Magnesium: 30.4 mg (8% DV)
- Phosphorus: 76.1 mg ( 8% DV)
- Copper: 0.1 mg (7% DV)
Benefits include:
- Improves digestive health
- Boosts bone strength
- Fights free radicals
- Aids in chronic disease prevention
- Amps up weight loss potential
5. Sunflower Seeds
Adding sunflower seeds to your diet is an easy way to boost your intake of vitamin E, thiamine and manganese.
One cup (about 46 grams) of dried sunflower seeds with the hull contains approximately:
- Calories: 269
- Carbohydrates: 9.2 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Fat: 23.7 g
- Protein: 9.6 g
- Vitamin E: 15.3 mg (76% DV)
- Thiamine: 0.7 mg (45% DV)
- Manganese: 0.9 mg (45% DV)
- Copper: 0.8 mg (41% DV)
- Magnesium: 150 mg (37% DV)
- Selenium: 24.4 mcg (35% DV)
- Vitamin B6: 0.6 mg (31% DV)
- Phosphorus: 304 mg (30% DV)
- Folate: 104 mcg (26% DV)
- Niacin: 3.8 mg (19% DV)
- Ninc: 2.3 mg (15% DV)
- Iron: 2.4 mg (13% DV)
- Riboflavin: 0.2 mg (10% DV)
Benefits include:
- Convenient and portable snack
- Keeps skin healthy
- Reduces inflammation
- Maintains healthy cholesterol levels
- Lowers blood sugar
6. Chia Seeds
Compared to other types of seeds, chia seeds are one of the best sources of fiber available. They also supply a good amount of manganese, phosphorus and calcium, as well as protein and heart-healthy fats.
A one-ounce serving of dried chia seeds (about 28.4 grams) contains:
- Calories: 137
- Carbohydrates: 11.9 g
- Fiber: 9.8 g
- Fat: 8.7 g
- Protein: 4.7 g
- Manganese: 0.8 mg (35% DV)
- Copper: 0.3 mg (33% DV)
- Phosphorus: 244 mg (20% DV)
- Calcium: 179 mg (14% DV)
- Zinc: 1.3 mg (12% DV)
Benefits include:
- Supports Gut Health
- High in Plant-Based Protein
- Strengthens Bones
- Improves Heart Health
- Prevents Constipation
7. Sesame Seeds
Sesame seeds are bursting with important vitamins and minerals, such as copper, manganese, calcium and magnesium.
Just one tablespoon (about nine grams) of dried, whole sesame seeds contains approximately:
- Calories: 51.6
- Carbohydrates: 2.1 g
- Fiber: 1.1 g
- Fat: 4.5 g
- Protein: 1.6 g
- Copper: 0.4 mg (18% DV)
- Manganese: 0.2 mg (11% DV)
- Calcium: 87.8 mg (9% DV)
- Magnesium: 31.6 mg (8% DV)
- Iron: 1.3 mg (7% DV)
Benefits include:
- Promotes healthy blood cell formation
- Strengthens bones
- Reduces blood pressure
- Protects against anemia
8. Pine Nuts
Despite their name, pine nuts are actually classified botanically as a type of seed. In addition to being a great source of vitamin K, pine nuts are also high in vitamin K, copper and magnesium.
A one-ounce serving of dried pine nuts (about 28.4 grams) contains approximately:
- Calories: 191
- Carbohydrates: 3.7 g
- Fiber: 1.1 g
- Fat: 19.4 g
- Protein: 3.9 g
- Magnesium: 71.2 mg (17% DV)
- Vitamin E: 2.6 mg (17% DV)
- Zinc: 1.8 mg (16% DV)
- Phosphorus: 163 mg (13% DV)
- Vitamin K: 15.3 mcg (13% DV)
- Iron: 1.6 mg (9% DV)
Benefits include:
- Supports brain function
- Maintains healthy blood clotting
- Keeps bones strong
- Improves iron absorption
- Versatile and easy to enjoy
9. Quinoa
Quinoa can often be found on the list of healthy seeds and grains because it’s prepared and consumed as a grain but is actually considered a type of edible seed.
A one-cup serving of cooked quinoa (about 185 grams) contains approximately:
- Calories: 222
- Carbohydrates: 39.4 g
- Fiber: 5.2 g
- Fat: 3.6 g
- Protein: 8.1 g
- Sodium: 13 mg (0.6% DV)
- Manganese: 1.2 mg (52% DV)
- Copper: 0.4 mg (44% DV)
- Magnesium: 118 mg (28% DV)
- Phosphorus: 281 mg (22% DV)
- Folate: 77.7 mcg (19% DV)
- Zinc: 2 mg (18% DV)
- Thiamine: 0.2 mg (17% DV)
- Iron: 2.8 mg (16% DV)
- Riboflavin: 0.2 mg (15% DV)
- Vitamin B6: 0.2 mg (12% DV)
- Selenium: 5.2 mcg (9% DV)
Benefits include:
- Complete, plant-based protein
- Good source of B vitamins
- Supports regularity
- Rich in iron
- Promotes muscle and nerve function
10. Pomegranate Seeds
Pomegranate seeds are low in calories yet jam-packed with fiber, vitamin K and vitamin C.
A half-cup serving (about 87 grams) of pomegranate provides approximately the following nutrients:
- Calories: 72.2
- Carbohydrates: 16.3 g
- Fiber: 3.5 g
- Fat: 1 g
- Protein: 1.5 g
- Vitamin K: 14.3 mcg (18% DV)
- Vitamin C: 8.9 mg (15% DV)
- Folate: 33.1 mcg (8% DV)
- Copper: 0.1 mg (7% DV)
Benefits include:
- Maintains normal blood clotting
- Boosts immune function
- Rich in antioxidants
- Aids in weight management
- Prevents constipation
Risks and Side Effects
Enjoying a few servings of organic seeds per day is a great way to enhance the quality of your overall diet. Not only that, but they’re also easy to enjoy, and there are a number of different recipes out there for how to roast pumpkin seeds, how to eat chia seeds, the proper way to prepare quinoa and more.
If you have an allergy or experience any adverse side effects after eating certain seeds, discontinue use and discuss with your doctor. Food allergy symptoms like hives, itching or rashes can often be indicative of a serious problem.
As with any high-fiber food, it’s important to increase your intake gradually to prevent digestive issues like bloating or constipation. Be sure to also drink plenty of water, which helps promote the passage of food through the body and keeps you hydrated.
Finally, while adding a serving or two of roasted pumpkin seeds to your diet can definitely be beneficial, it’s unlikely to have much of an impact unless combined with a nutritious, well-rounded diet and healthy lifestyle.
In addition to the healthiest seeds, fill your diet with a variety of fruits, veggies, whole grains, protein foods and healthy fats to maximize the potential health benefits.
Final Thoughts
- Seeds are defined as any type of embryonic plant that is surrounded by a protective outer covering. Nutritionally and botanically, there are many similarities and differences between seeds and other ingredients, such as nuts, beans and grains.
- In addition to being high in protein and nutrient-dense, the healthiest seeds are associated with several benefits, including increased weight loss, improved digestive health and better blood sugar control.
- A few of the healthiest seeds include flax, hemp, pumpkin, poppy, sunflower, chia, sesame and pomegranate seeds, as well as quinoa and pine nuts.
- Adding a few servings of the healthiest seeds to your daily diet can have a huge impact on overall health and wellness.
