A seed is a small hard part of a plant from which a new plant grows. It consists of an embryo and food reserve enclosed within a protective seed coat.
Seeds are formed in a variety of ways by different types of plants. For example, in gymnosperms seeds form between the scales of a cone or in a berrylike cup.
Protein
Seeds are loaded with protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that can help you maintain good health. They are also a good source of healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.
Despite their high concentrations of protein, seeds are much easier to digest than nuts, making them a great alternative for those looking for more protein in their diets. They can be eaten in many different forms, such as raw, roasted, salted, and dry roasted.
Storage proteins are one of the largest protein fractions in seeds. They are responsible for the storage of energy for germination and growth of seeds. These proteins are stored in the endosperm (monocot) or in the embryo (dicot).
Fiber
Fiber is a type of nutrient that provides digestive benefits and can help reduce cholesterol, lower blood pressure, and prevent diabetes. It comes in a variety of forms, including soluble and insoluble fibers.
Most people do not get enough fiber in their diets, so adding a few high-fiber seeds to your daily meals can help improve your intake. These seeds are also rich in antioxidants and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which can help prevent chronic disease.
Aside from flaxseed and chia seeds, there are a number of other high-fiber foods you can add to your diet. The USDA recommends 25-35 grams of fiber per day.
Manganese
Manganese is an essential trace mineral that’s found in many foods, including whole grains, nuts, seeds and legumes. It plays a vital role in your thyroid gland’s normal function, helping to regulate your appetite and metabolism.
It’s also important for your skin’s collagen production and wound healing. Some research suggests that applying a combination of manganese, calcium and zinc to chronic wounds for 12 weeks can improve their appearance and heal more quickly.
Soybeans are especially vulnerable to manganese deficiency and respond well to foliar applications of manganese in a tankmix with herbicides such as glyphosate. Apply 0.5 to two pounds of manganese per acre, either as a chelated form or as manganese sulfate.
Vitamins
Seeds are packed with vitamins and minerals that can have a huge impact on your health. They can help prevent certain diseases like heart disease and diabetes, improve digestion and improve blood sugar control.
Sunflower seeds are a great source of vitamin E and zinc, which helps protect your body’s cells from free radical damage. They also contain selenium, which can boost your immune system and lower your risk of chronic diseases.
Pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds can help reduce inflammation in your body, which is linked to several chronic diseases including heart diseases and type 2 diabetes. They are also full of antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids.
They are also high in dietary fiber, which can promote digestive health and help prevent issues like hemorrhoids, diverticulitis, intestinal ulcers and constipation. They can be a delicious addition to salads, yogurt, oatmeal and smoothies!
Minerals
Seeds can offer a wide variety of minerals, including vitamin E, folate, copper, manganese, phosphorus, and selenium. These vitamins and minerals help keep your body healthy, promote energy production, and enhance your metabolism.
They also boost brain health and assist with immune function and cellular signaling. You can get all these benefits from just a handful of seeds a day.
To explore the role of source tissue function in seed nutrient concentration, we measured mineral content of leaves at different time points and pod walls at 20 days after pollination (DAP). Then, we examined how nutrient transport from the source tissue to the sink tissue changes during development. We found that the relative amount of nutrient transport from the subtending leaf and pod wall to the developing seeds increased between 16 DAP and 20 DAP.