Poppy seed

Possible benefits of poppy seed:

poppy-seed

 

Agricultural origin: Turkey

Allergens

  • Wheat: possible cross contamination
  • Gluten: possible cross contamination
  • Egg: absent
  • Milk: absent
  • Nuts: possible cross contamination

Nutritional values

( per 100 gram from supplier )

  • Energy: 2167 Kj / 518 Kcal
  • Fat: 42.2 g / of which saturated: 4.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 4.9 g / of which sugar: 2.3 g
  • Fibers: 20.5 g
  • Protein: 18 g
  • Salt: 0.05 g

Rich in nutrients and antioxidants

Like most seeds, poppy seeds are rich in fiber, plant fats, and various other nutrients. Poppy seeds are particularly rich in manganese, a trace element important for bone health and blood clotting. This mineral also helps your body utilize amino acids, fats, and carbs. They’re likewise high in copper, a mineral needed to make connective tissue and transport iron. The seeds can be cold pressed to produce poppyseed oil, which is especially rich in omega-6 and omega-9 fats. It also contains small amounts of the essential omega-3 fat alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). Research typically links diets rich in these fats to improved overall health and a lower risk of heart disease.

Contain pain-relieving compounds

The poppy plant contains morphine, codeine, thebaine, and other opium alkaloids known for their pain-relieving, calming, and sleep-inducing properties. These compounds are often found in pharmaceutical drugs intended for these uses. These alkaloids are typically present in the poppy pod’s milky white liquid, also known as poppy latex. Poppy seeds don’t naturally contain opium compounds but may become contaminated with them during harvesting or as a result of pest damage. Thus, before reaching supermarket shelves, poppy seeds are usually cleaned to get rid of any opium alkaloids with which they may have come into contact.

Boost heart and skin health

Poppyseed oil is particularly rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which may be beneficial for your heart and skin. Research suggests that diets rich in unsaturated fats may reduce your risk of heart attacks and stroke by up to 17%. Replacing saturated fats in your diet with unsaturated fats may be particularly advantageous. Keep in mind that diets with a high omega-6 to omega-3 ratio may increase your risk of inflammation and disease. As such, it may be best to avoid consuming large amounts of omega-6 rich oils, including poppyseed oil, on a regular basis. Additional research suggests that the fats in poppyseed oil may also support wound healing, as well as prevent scaly lesions when applied directly to the skin.

Aid digestion

Poppy seeds are rich in fiber, which may improve gut health and reduce constipation.

Safeguard against certain illnesses

The antioxidants in these seeds may protect your body from cellular damage and various illnesses.  

Rich in fiber

Fiber is a blanket term that applies to any type of carbohydrate that your body can’t digest. The fact your body doesn’t use fiber for fuel doesn’t make it less valuable to your overall health. Fiber can offer the following benefits when you consume it:

  • Reducing cholesterol. Fiber’s presence in the digestive tract can help reduce the body’s cholesterol absorption. This is especially true if you take statins, which are medications to lower cholesterol, and use fiber supplements like psyllium fiber.
  • Promoting a healthy weight. High fiber foods like fruits and vegetables tend to be lower in calories. Also, fiber’s presence can slow digestion in the stomach to help you feel fuller for longer.
  • Adding bulk to the digestive tract. Those who struggle with constipation or a generally sluggish digestive tract may wish to add fiber to their diet. Fiber naturally adds bulk to the digestive tract, as your body doesn’t digest it. This stimulates the intestines.
  • Promoting blood sugar control. It can take your body longer to break down high fiber foods. This helps you maintain more consistent blood sugar levels, which is especially helpful for those with diabetes.
  • Reducing gastrointestinal cancer risk. Eating enough fiber can have protective effects against certain cancer types, including colon cancer. 

Source reference

We have consulted scientific studies to substantiate additional information. You can find the source here:

national-institutes-of-health

health-line

united-states-department-of-agriculture

medical-news-today

ncib

american-heart-association