Introduction
Garden cress seeds, or halim seeds, are little but powerful seeds that are incredibly nutrient-dense. Because of their therapeutic qualities and health advantages, they have been utilized for centuries in a variety of cultures. Their remarkable nutritional profile and many applications have led to their rise in reputation as a superfood in recent times. Everything you need to know about Halim seeds will be covered in this in-depth guide, including their nutritional worth, health advantages, how to include them in your diet, and safety measures to take.
Nutritional Value of Halim Seeds Per 100 gm
Halim seeds are incredibly nutrient-dense. These seeds are particularly rich in protein, fibre, and essential minerals like calcium, iron, and magnesium, making them a valuable addition to any diet. Here is a breakdown of their nutritional value per 100 grams:
| Nutrients | Concentration per 100 gm |
| Protein | 22.40 g |
| Fat | 24.18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 36.1 g |
| Dietary Fibre | 40.37 g |
| Calcium | 0.39 g |
| Iron | 0.005 g |
| Vitamin C | 0.010 g |
| Potassium | 1.21 g |
| Vitamin A | 10 mcg |
Properties of Halim Seeds
The following characteristics of halim seeds add to their health benefits:
- Antioxidant: Packed with vitamins C and A, Halim seeds shield cells from harm and fight oxidative stress.
- Anti-inflammatory: The seeds’ constituents lessen the body’s inflammatory response, improving general health.
- Laxative: A high-fibre diet promotes healthy digestion and keeps constipation at bay.
- Galactagogue: Known to increase nursing moms’ milk supply.
- Diuretic: Increases the output of urine, aiding in cleansing.
- Hematinic: Because it contains iron, it improves blood formation.
Top Benefits of Halim Seeds (Garden Cress Seeds) You Must Know
Garden cress seeds are a nutritional powerhouse and have lots of health benefits. Let’s explore some of the Halim seeds benefits:
1. Activates the Immune System
The high vitamin C concentration in Halim seeds bolsters the immune system, contributing to the body’s increased resistance to infections and illnesses.
2. Encourages Gut Health
Packed with nutritional fibre, halim seeds facilitate regular bowel movements and stave off constipation, which helps with digestion.
3. Promotes Healthy Bones
Magnesium and calcium are necessary to keep bones strong and healthy. These minerals are abundant in halim seeds, which promote bone density and general skeletal health.
4. Improves Haemoglobin Levels
With an impressive iron content, Halim seeds are excellent for individuals with anemia or low haemoglobin levels, as they help in the formation of red blood cells.
5. Promotes Loss of Weight
Halim seed fibre contributes to satiety, which lowers total caloric intake and helps with weight control.
6. Promotes Skin Health
Halim seeds’ antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals support good skin by lowering oxidative stress, encouraging the formation of collagen, and preventing acne.
7. Promotes Healthy Hair
Proteins and vitamins included in halim seeds feed hair follicles, encouraging hair growth and halting hair loss.
8. Menstrual Cycle Regulation
Because of their phytoestrogen concentration, halim seeds are believed to help control menstrual periods and ease the discomfort associated with them.
9. Promotes Lactation
Halim seeds are beneficial for nursing moms because of their galactagogue qualities, which aid in boosting milk supply.
How to Use Halim Seeds (Garden Cress Seeds)?
There are several ways to include Halim seeds in your diet:
1. Soaked Seeds
Halim seeds can be eaten raw after soaking in water for a few hours. Here’s an easy way to incorporate them into your diet.
2. Drinks in smoothie form
For an added nutritional boost, add a teaspoon of soaked Halim seeds to your favourite smoothie.
3. Salads
To improve the nutritional value and give a crisp texture to salads, sprinkle them with Halim seeds.
4. Stews & Soups
Incorporate Halim seeds into stews and soups. They give the dish heft and integrate beautifully.
5. Pastries and Baking
For extra nourishment, add halim seeds to bread, muffins, and other baked foods.
6. Sprouted Halim Seeds
As the seeds sprout, use them as a garnish for different foods. Seeds that have sprouted offer more nutritional advantages.
7. Halim Seed Drink
Blend a teaspoon of Halim seeds with water, honey, and lemon juice to create a revitalizing beverage.
Side Effects of Halim Seeds (Garden Cress Seeds)
Even while Halim seeds have several health advantages, consuming too many of them can have negative effects:
- Digestive Problems: Due to the high fibre content, overconsumption may result in bloating, gas, and stomach cramps.
- Hypoglycemia: Halim seeds can lower blood sugar levels. Diabetics who regularly eat these seeds should monitor their blood sugar levels.
- Thyroid Function: Consuming too many halim seeds may impact thyroid function. Before including them in their diet, people with thyroid issues should speak with a healthcare professional.
- Pregnancy Concerns: Because Halim seeds might cause uterine contractions, pregnant women should refrain from consuming significant amounts of them.
Precautions to take with Halim Seeds
Take into consideration the following safety measures to reap the benefits of Halim seeds:
- Moderation: Halim seeds should be consumed in moderation to minimize any possible negative effects.
- Speak with a Doctor: Before incorporating Halim seeds into your diet, get advice from your healthcare professional if you are pregnant, nursing, or have any underlying medical concerns.
- Hydration: Drink a lot of water before eating Halim seeds to ensure that the fibre in them passes through your digestive system easily.
- Dietary Balance: Include Halim seeds in your diet to ensure you’re getting a range of nutrients from various foods.
Conclusion
Powerful nutritional sources, Halim seeds have several health advantages, including better digestion, increased immunity, and healthier skin and hair. Because of their adaptability, they may be simply added to a variety of recipes, which makes them a vital part of your diet. But it’s crucial to eat them sparingly and be mindful of any possible negative effects. You can safely take advantage of the various benefits of halim seeds and enhance your general health by following the guidelines and advice provided in this guide.
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FAQ
It is possible to eat halim seeds on a daily basis, but moderation is key. Generally, you only need a tiny quantity—one teaspoon per day—to reap the health advantages without experiencing any negative side effects.
If halim seeds are consumed in excessive amounts, adverse effects may occur. These include problems with the digestive system, such as bloating and cramping in the stomach, low blood sugar in diabetics, possible effects on thyroid function, and contractions in the uterus in pregnant women. It is recommended to use them sparingly.
Halim seeds do indeed promote hair development. They can aid in preventing hair loss and are high in proteins, vitamins, and minerals that feed hair follicles and encourage stronger, healthier hair.
Halim seeds do indeed benefit the skin. They are rich in vitamins, including A and C, and antioxidants that help lower oxidative stress, encourage the formation of collagen, and maintain healthy, radiant skin.
Yes, you can consume halim seeds at night. It’s okay to eat them before bed as long as you don’t eat too many. Make sure you consume plenty of water to facilitate digestion and avoid any pain.
References
- Adera, F., Yusuf, Z., & Desta, M. (2022). Physicochemical Properties and Biological Activities of Garden Cress (Lepidium sativum L.) Seed and Leaf Oil Extracts. the Canadian Journal of Infectious Diseases & Medical Microbiology/Canadian Journal of Infectious Diseases & Medical Microbiology, 2022, 1–8. https://doi.org/10.1155/2022/2947836
- Vazifeh, S., Kananpour, P., Khalilpour, M., Eisalou, S. V., & Hamblin, M. R. (2022). Anti-inflammatory and Immunomodulatory Properties of Lepidium sativum. BioMed Research International, 2022, 1–12. https://doi.org/10.1155/2022/3645038
- Hekmatshoar, Y., Özkan, T., & Saadat, Y. R. (2022). Evidence for Health-Promoting Properties of <i>Lepidium sativum</i> L.: An Updated Comprehensive Review. Turkish Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 19(6), 714–723. https://doi.org/10.4274/tjps.galenos.2021.07504