Poppy Seeds Nutrition Facts

Poppy seeds come from the poppy flower seed pod, which is harvested once the flowers have wilted and the seed pod has slightly opened up after drying. The very word 'poppy' suggest opium and narcotics, and thus, has gotten itself a bad name, though its use as a culinary spice dates back to the middle ages, and presently it's widely used in bagels, confectionery and gravies. Poppy is grown for its medicinal, culinary and ornamental value. The most commonly grown species, Papaver somniferum is widely grown and monitored by agencies to keep a check on its narcotic value and flow. This species name, somniferum, literally means sleep inducing. More new cultivators are being introduced for making poppy seeds more conducive for consumption.

Nutritional Value of Poppy Seeds

The nutrition facts mentioned below are for one tablespoon of poppy seeds, which is approximately equivalent to 9g.

Nutrient	Nutritional Value
Calories	45.9
Calcium	126 mg
Protein	1.6 mg
Potassium	62.9 mg
Magnesium	30.4 mg
Phosphorous	76.1 mg
Sodium	2.3 mg
Carbohydrates	2.5 g

Associated Health Benefits

Poppy seeds add a distinct flavor and taste to food. But that is not the only reason why they are consumed; They provide quite a number of health benefits too. These seeds are considered to be an excellent source of vital minerals like magnesium, zinc, calcium, etc. that are needed for the smooth functioning of all human organs. As they provide the body with a good source of carbohydrates, they add loads of energy in the body. Their fatty acids aid in digestion as well as supplying other important acids required to break down food in the stomach. Poppy seeds contain linoleic acid and oleic acid. Linoleic acid protects the heart from many heart diseases and conditions, while oleic acid is known to help in prevention of breast cancer. Calories in poppy seeds is also comparatively less than other spices and herbs.

As it does not contain a lot of alkaloids, it is used to treat all kinds of nervous disorders. It is given in minimum quantities to treat insomnia. It also helps to alleviate asthma and whooping cough symptoms. It is also used to treat diarrhea and other stomach related conditions. Its use in medicinal products and medicines is highly regulated though. Oil extracted from poppy seeds is also used to make drugs and medicines.

How to Use Poppy Seeds

One can use both black and white poppy seeds for cooking or baking a variety of food items. They are used very commonly while making bagels, bread, cakes and muffins. They can be roasted or eaten raw, sprinkled on salads, or in salad dressings, while baking and cooking pastas and vegetables. They are available as seeds, powder and oil too.

The above mentioned facts prove that poppy seeds will provide you with a good amount of vital nutrients, so incorporate them regularly in your diet, but make sure you pick good quality seeds only!