Poppy seeds are usually the most overlooked in the superfood fray because not many of us know that these tiny seeds, with their crunchy delicacy and nutty taste, are a nutritional powerhouse, particularly for women. From ancient healing to contemporary wellness, the minuscule force in seed form is full of a host of nutrients that can significantly impact all areas of women's health.
We spoke to our expert, Bhumesh Tyagi, Consultant, General Medicine and Physician, Shardacare, Health City, Noida, and he explained to us the incredible benefits poppy seeds provide. Here is what he shared with us and the reasons why you should add poppy seeds to your diet as a woman.
Benefits of Poppy Seeds For Women
Dr Tyagi urged us not to be fooled by their size; poppy seeds are a rich source of all the necessary vitamins, minerals, and essential fats. For women, this means numerous benefits. A few would include:
1. Bone Health Ally
At every stage of life, women need to ensure that they have healthy bones. Poppy seeds are very rich in phosphorus and calcium, two minerals that are essential for bone density as well as avoiding illnesses like osteoporosis. Additionally, they are also rich in magnesium, which is essential for calcium absorption and bone development.
2. Hormonal Balance
According to some ancient applications and studies, poppy seeds may play a role in maintaining hormonal balance. They are rich in lignans, phytochemicals found in plants that can exert weak estrogenic actions, which could bring some comfort during menopausal signs or menstrual disturbances. Yet, it should be mentioned that stronger scientific proof is necessary in this respect.
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3. Digestive Wellness
An optimal gut is the basis of general well-being, and proper digestion also ensures better nutrient assimilation. Poppy seeds contain dietary fibre, which supports digestion, ensures smooth bowel movements, and can keep constipation at bay, something most women experience in their 30s.
4. Iron Boost for Energy
Iron deficiency anaemia is common in women, especially those of childbearing age. Poppy seeds provide a good amount of iron, used by the body to produce red blood cells and fight fatigue. Adding them to your diet can be a tasty means of increasing iron levels and promoting energy.
5. Sleep Inducement and Stress Relief
For most women managing several roles, good sleep may be hard to come by. Poppy seeds have compounds such as magnesium that is renowned for its muscle relaxing attributes, and some of the traditional practices apply them due to their sedative properties, which may contribute to improved sleep and stress relief.
6. Skin and Hair Nourishment
The antioxidants and healthy fats in poppy seeds may help to give the skin its natural glow and hair its shine. The essential fatty acids aid in skin hydration and elasticity, while antioxidants fight free radical damage, which may help to delay ageing.
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How to Add Poppy Seeds to Your Diet
The convenience of poppy seeds lies in their versatility, making them very simple to add to your regular diet:
- Baked Goods: Top them on bread, muffins, bagels, or add them to cake batters for a nutty texture and flavour.
- Salad Topping: Use a sprinkle as a topping on your salads for added crunch and nutrient value.
- Smoothies: Blend them into your smoothies for an unseen boost of minerals and fiber.
- Yoghurt and Oatmeal: Stir them into your morning yoghurt or oatmeal.
- Curries and Stir-fries: Poppy seeds are sometimes ground and employed as a thickener or seasoning in curries and gravies in certain types of cuisine.
- Dressings: Make a tasty poppy seed salad dressing.
Bottomline
From facilitating healthy bones and digestion to possibly ensuring improved sleep and hormonal balance, poppy seeds provide an amazing array of benefits distinctly suited to meet women's health requirements. Therefore, the next time you wish to boost your nutritional level, go for these small powerhouses.