REFILL WITH ELECTROLYTES
It’s common on the keto diet to lose a lot of fluid, regardless of your fitness regime, so it’s important to rehydrate the body with electrolytes. A handful of sunflower seeds supplies the body with 5% of the daily value of potassium, an important electrolyte for muscle health, which is more than dried coconut and cashews.
MIND YOUR MACROS
Paying attention to macronutrients on a keto diet is important. Just 1 ounce of sunflower seeds, or about 3 tablespoons, averages you 3 net carbs, which is less than almonds, cashews, pistachios, and pumpkin seeds.
FIT WITH MORE FAT
Because you are cutting out energy-giving and belly-filling carbohydrates on a keto diet, it’s important to replace those carbs with foods that are high in healthy fats. A serving of sunflower seeds will net you 14 grams of the heart-healthy polyunsaturated fats, which are great in moderation, making them one of the lowest-fat options among keto-friendly seeds and nuts.
KEEP IT MOVING
Dieticians often find that patients who are on poorly-planned keto diets tend towards slower digestion and fiber deficiency, particularly when they cut out much needed veggies. Luckily, a quarter of a cup of sunflower seeds has about 3 grams of fiber, which can aid in gut health and motility.
PROTEIN POWERHOUSE
There is perhaps no macronutrient more important on a keto diet than protein. Whether from plants or animal sources, adequate protein intake is key to a healthy and successful keto diet and in just one handful of sunflower seeds, you can take in more than 6 grams of protein, more than every other nut and seed, with the exception of pumpkin seeds. Wow, what a powerhouse!
CALORIE CONTROL
Studies consistently show that when people cut carbs and eat more protein and fat, they end up eating far fewer calories. Sunflower seeds, because they are high in protein and good fats, are naturally lower in calories, with just 65 calories in a half cup of seeds.
South 40’s giant-sized seeds are an easy snack and a great way to meet your macro needs while staying within the boundaries of a healthy and successful keto diet.