Poppy seeds: What are they and their properties

Poppy seeds are extracted from the poppy flower. They are used as an ingredient in many baked goods, such as breads, biscuits or muffins, although they can also be added to juices, smoothies, salads and pastas. Poppy seeds are increasingly consumed worldwide because they are very nutritionally rich and high in energy.

Nutritional value of poppy seeds

Poppy seeds are considered an oilseed as their greatest nutrient is fat. Its fat content is mostly polyunsaturated with a majority of omega-6, a high contribution of omega-9 also, albeit in smaller quantity,and omega-3. It contains a good supply of protein, similar to that of sunflower seeds. It is low in carbohydrates and its fibre content is high.

It contains B vitamins, above all, its contribution in vitamin B1 and folic acid is interesting. It also provides some vitamin C and a good dose of vitamin E. What stands out with its mineral content,is the calcium content. They also have a lot of phosphorus, iron, potassium, magnesium, manganese, copper, zinc and selenium.

 Properties and benefits of poppy seeds

1. Poppy seeds help us take care of our heart due to their high content of polyunsaturated fats that exert a protective effect against cardiovascular diseases. In addition, omega-3 helps reduce levels of triglycerides, total cholesterol and bad cholesterol (LDL) in the blood while omega-9 promotes the increase of good cholesterol (HDL).
2. Their high fibre content makes them suitable to combat constipation and regulate intestinal transit.
3. The high calcium content accompanied by the intake of phosphorus causes the calcium to be absorbed and deposited in the bones by re-mineralising it, so they are recommended to prevent osteoporosis.
4. Containing vitamins C and E, two antioxidants allow to strengthen the immune system.
5. Poppy seed infusions contribute to sleep reconciliation by their alkaloid content that help calm and relax the nervous system.

 How to take poppy seeds?

As we already pointed out at the beginning, poppy seeds are widely used in bakery and pastries, but can also be added raw in juices, smoothies, sauces, creams, sautéed, pasta or salads... You can toast them in a frying pan and then crush them to have a little more flavour. They can also be consumed in an infusion, alone or mixed with other herbs. In this case, the daily dose should not exceed one tablespoon.