Perilla seeds: The lesser-known superfood that's magic for your heart
What's the story
Perilla seeds, a lesser-known superfood, are making waves for their heart-healthy benefits. These tiny seeds, which are native to Asia, are packed with nutrients that can help promote cardiovascular health. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, perilla seeds offer a natural way to support heart function. As more people look for natural ways to improve their health, perilla seeds present an interesting option worth exploring.
#1
Omega-3 fatty acids in perilla seeds
Perilla seeds are loaded with alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid. ALA is essential for heart health as it helps reduce inflammation and lower cholesterol levels. Adding perilla seeds to your diet can increase your omega-3 intake without having to rely on fish or supplements. This makes them an ideal choice for vegetarians and vegans looking to boost their omega-3 consumption.
#2
Antioxidant properties of perilla seeds
The antioxidant properties of perilla seeds are also impressive. They are loaded with polyphenols and flavonoids, which help fight oxidative stress in the body. Oxidative stress can lead to cell damage and contribute to various chronic diseases, including heart disease. By including antioxidant-rich foods like perilla seeds in your diet, you can help protect your cells from damage and promote overall health.
#3
Potential cholesterol-lowering effects
Research indicates that consuming perilla seed oil may help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels while raising HDL (good) cholesterol levels. This is mainly due to the high content of omega-3 fatty acids in these seeds. By balancing cholesterol levels, perilla seeds may reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases over time.
Tip 1
Easy ways to incorporate perilla seeds into your diet
Incorporating perilla seeds into your diet is easy and versatile. You can sprinkle them on salads or soups for an added crunch or blend them into smoothies for a nutrient boost. Perilla seed oil is another option; use it as a salad dressing or drizzle it over cooked vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.