World's most nutritious seeds are 'healthier than most vegetables'

Ever wondered why health-conscious recipes often include a spoonful of chia seeds ? According to a BBC list of the 100 most nutritious foods globally , two types of seeds rank impressively high. Chia seeds secure the fifth spot with a nutritional score of 85, closely followed by pumpkin seeds in sixth place. But what makes these seeds so beneficial for our health ? Doctor says '60% of diseases' can be avoided if we stop eating certain foods Nutritionists hail affordable superfood 'everyone should eat more of' because of two vitamins Chia seeds are hailed as a superfood, and rightly so.

They contain all nine essential amino acids, making them an excellent source of plant-based protein. Additionally, they can assist with weight loss. Chia seeds absorb water (up to 10 times their weight), forming a gel-like substance that can keep you feeling satiated for longer, reports Surrey Live .



While they may seem like a modern health trend, chia seeds were historically consumed by Aztec and Mayan warriors for sustained energy. Their balanced mix of carbohydrates, protein, and fats makes them an ideal fuel source. Pumpkin seeds are one of the richest plant-derived sources of iron and manganese.

They scored a nutritional score of 84 - just one point less than chia seeds. The benefits of pumpkin seeds include their anti-inflammatory properties due to compounds like vitamin E and carotenoids, which may help reduce inflammation in conditions like arthritis. DAILY NEWSLETTER: Sign up here to get the latest news and updates from the Mirror US straight to your inbox with our FREE newsletter.

They also contain magnesium which is essential for maintaining strong bones and preventing osteoporosis. Pumpkin seeds also contain Tryptophan, a natural amino acid in pumpkin seeds that promotes the production of serotonin and melatonin which improve sleep quality. There are many ways to eat pumpkin seeds, whether it's just as they are, roasted as a snack, or sprinkled on soups and baked goods.

They make a good addition to salads , oatmeal, smoothies, or yogurt. So next time you want to add a bit of crunch or texture to your meals, consider reaching for these two seeds..