SEEDS
FLAX SEEDS
Flax seeds contain plant omega-3s (aplha-linolenic acid) and lignans, which can help reduce inflammation in the body. The best way to get omega 3's out of flaxseeds is to grind them fresh and to eat them immediately as the ALA's will become rancid quickly. Never eat pre-ground flaxseeds, especially if they have not been refrigerated or frozen. We at YG use whole flaxseeds. You may not be able to get the maximum benefits out of them but the ALA's you will get from grinding them with your teeth will be fresh and useful to the body.
SUNFLOWER SEEDS
Sunflower seeds are yummy seeds, they are high in vitamin E and selenium along with many other nutrients, antioxidants, healthy fats, protein and fibre. Because of all this they are beneficial in reducing inflammation, good for cardiovascular health, good for bone health, a healthy immune system and nervous system, and helping with healthy cholesterol levels. Promising studies have suggested that they may even have blood sugar lowering effects because they contain chlorogenic acids reported to have beneficial effects on the regulation of glucose metabolism.
PUMPKIN SEEDS
Pumpkin seeds are a little bit unique in the fact that eating only a small amount of them can provide you with a substantial quantity of magnesium and zinc. This is important for immune health and pumpkin seeds in particular have been found to help with prostate health because of the high levels of zinc. Magnesium is needed for hundreds of chemical reactions in the body. Adequate levels of magnesium are also important for healthy bones, blood sugar and blood pressure levels. Pumpkin seeds are also high in healthy fats, fibre, and antioxidants to reduce inflammation, as well as several vitamins and minerals.
CHIA SEEDS
Chia seeds, the powerful little seed that likes to get stuck in you teeth. These little guys contain all 9 essential amino acids (the amino acids that the body cannot make and must get from diet in order to make the rest of the amino acids our bodies require), they are also a good plant source of omega 3's and other healthy fats. Chia seeds contain vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin D, and B vitamins niacin and thiamine. They also contain minerals such as iron, iodine, magnesium, and copper. They are beneficial for digestion, support healthy skin, heart health and help balance blood sugar levels.
SESAME SEEDS
Sesame seeds have one of the highest oil contents of any seed and are rich in essential fatty acids, amino acids and a wide range of important vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins, vitamin E, calcium and magnesium. Sesame seeds rank high in cholesterol-lowering phytosterols of nearly all nuts and seeds. Phytosterols are a type of phytonutrient that act in the intestine to help lower cholesterol absorption. Sesame seeds are also beneficial for skin health, heart health, immune health, bone health and supports digestion because their fibre content.
HEMP HEARTS
Hemp hearts are from the same species as cannabis (marijuana) but a different variety and cannot get you high. They are however, highly nutritious. Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), found in hemp seeds, has been shown to help reduce pre-menstrual symptoms for women. PMS is often caused by sensitivity to the hormone prolactin. GLA helps produce prostaglandin E1 which reduces the effects of prolactin. The healthy fats in hemp hearts are good for skin, hair, nails, heart health, cellular health and more. Their fibre is good for digestion and all the great nutrients in hemp hearts also help reduce inflammation.
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Nuts & seeds contain fats, protein & carbohydrates. The fat content of nuts & seeds can become rancid easily under conditions such as light exposure, being exposed to air, heat & aging. Rancid fats are toxic to the body & add more burden to your liver. If you would like the freshest nuts & seeds then please avoid buying from a bin in bulk form. Try to purchase in pre-sealed packaging that is not clear. The darker the packaging the better. Always check the best before date. Smart health food stores will store their nuts & seeds in refrigerators. Once home store your nuts and seeds in the fridge or freezer, yes freezer ;)