Tap to Read ➤

Poppy Seeds Nutrition Facts

Loveleena Rajeev
Poppy seeds are rich in iron, calcium, phosphorus, zinc, etc. Provided here is some information about the various nutrients present in these seeds and their associated health benefits.
Poppy seeds come from the poppy flower pod, which is harvested once the flowers have wilted and the 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.
It is presently 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. More new cultivators are being introduced for making poppy seeds more conducive for consumption.

Nutritional Value

The nutrition facts mentioned here are for one tablespoon of poppy seeds, which is approximately equivalent to 9g.
  • Calories - 46
  • 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

Health Benefits

Poppy seeds add a distinct flavor and taste to food, and provide a number of health benefits too. These seeds are 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 amount of carbohydrates, they add loads of energy to the body. The fatty acids present in it, aid in digestion as well as supply other important acids required to help in the digestion process.
Poppy seeds also contain linoleic acid and oleic acid. The former protects the heart from many heart diseases, while the latter is known to help in prevention of breast cancer.
As it does not contain a lot of alkaloids, the seeds are used to treat all kinds of nervous disorders. Also, it is given in minimum quantities to treat insomnia. It helps to alleviate the symptoms of asthma and whooping cough.
Apart from this, 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 these seeds is also used to make drugs and medicines.
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, and while baking and cooking pastas and vegetables. They are available as powder and oil too.
The aforementioned facts prove that poppy seeds will provide you with a good amount of vital nutrients, therefore, it must be incorporate in the diet.