19. Sunflower Seed Butter: A Tasty, Plant-Based Option for Vitamin D
Sunflower seed butter, made from ground sunflower seeds, is a tasty and nutritious plant-based option for individuals looking to boost their vitamin D intake. While sunflower seed butter itself doesn’t naturally contain vitamin D, some commercial brands fortify their products with the vitamin. Depending on the brand, a two-tablespoon serving of fortified sunflower seed butter can provide around 60-80 IU of vitamin D, which is about 8-10% of the daily recommended intake for adults.
In addition to vitamin D, sunflower seed butter is also an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients like vitamin E, magnesium, and selenium. These nutrients play a crucial role in maintaining heart health, supporting muscle function, and promoting a healthy immune system.
Sunflower seed butter can be enjoyed in many ways, such as spread on toast, mixed into smoothies, or used as a base for sauces and dressings. When choosing sunflower seed butter, opt for brands that are fortified with vitamin D and free from added sugars and hydrogenated oils to maximize nutritional benefits.
