7 Best Sunflower Seeds For Baseball Players And Athletes

If you’re looking for the best sunflower seeds, this article is the right place. In this post, I’ll share some of the delicious sunflower seeds from leading brands like Devid, Bigs, Spitz, Gerbs, etc.  

Sunflower seeds are the most popular snacks for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Even now, I often have a pack on the ground in the middle of the practice break. 

I also suggest my kids keep sunflower seeds every 2-3 days to maintain a balanced diet. They provide a good source of protein, fiber, and other nutrients that can help promote muscle growth and recovery. 

Plus, sunflower seeds have a low glycemic index, so they are a good choice for people with diabetes or other conditions that require careful monitoring of blood sugar levels.

What to Look for in Sunflower Seeds

Alright, so you’re standing in the snack aisle, staring at a wall of sunflower seeds, and you’re thinking, “Which ones are actually good?” I get it. It’s a jungle out there. Let’s break down what you should be looking for, so you can snag the best bag for your snacking pleasure.

1. Sodium Levels: Keep it Real

First things first, let’s talk salt. Now, I know, a little salt can make sunflower seeds downright addictive. But too much? Not only is it not great for your blood pressure, but it can also overpower the natural, nutty flavor of the seeds.

Check the sodium content on the label. If you’re watching your salt intake, look for “low sodium” or “no salt added” options. Trust me, you can still get that satisfying crunch without feeling like you just licked a salt block.

2. Roasting Style: Flavor Matters

Ever notice how some sunflower seeds taste different? That’s the roasting process at work. Some brands roast ’em low and slow, bringing out a rich, buttery flavor. Others go for a high-heat roast, which can give them a slightly smoky, almost toasted taste.

Then there are the “dry roasted” seeds, which tend to have a lighter, cleaner flavor. Personally, I like a nice medium roast, but it’s all about your preference. Experiment a little!

3. Seed Size and Texture: The Crunch Factor

Let’s face it, size matters when it comes to sunflower seeds. Some are those big, plump fellas that give you a satisfying “crack” when you break ’em open. Others are smaller, more delicate, perfect for those who like a gentler snack. Then there’s the texture – are they nice and crunchy, or a little soft? You want that satisfying snap when you bite into them. Nobody likes a bag of soggy seeds.

4. Packaging and Freshness: Seal the Deal

Ever get a bag of seeds that tasted…off? That’s probably because they weren’t stored properly. Look for bags that are tightly sealed, preferably with a resealable top.

You want to keep those seeds fresh and crunchy for as long as possible. Also, check the “best by” date. Nobody wants to eat stale seeds.

5. Nutritional Value: More Than Just a Snack

Sunflower seeds aren’t just tasty, they’re actually pretty good for you! They’re packed with healthy fats, protein, fiber, and a bunch of vitamins and minerals. But, and this is a big but, not all sunflower seeds are created equal.

Check the nutrition label. Look for seeds that are high in protein and fiber, but low in saturated fat. And if you’re watching your weight, keep an eye on the calories.

6. Organic vs. Conventional: Your Call

Like with most foods, you’ll find organic and conventional sunflower seeds. Organic seeds are grown without pesticides or synthetic fertilizers, which is a plus for some folks. But they can be a bit pricier.

Conventional seeds are generally cheaper, but they might have been treated with chemicals. It’s a personal choice, really.

7. Flavored Seeds: Spice It Up!

If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s a whole world of flavored sunflower seeds out there. We’re talking everything from dill pickle to barbecue to ranch.

But be warned, some of these flavors can be seriously intense. If you’re trying a new flavor, maybe start with a small bag.

So, next time you’re in the snack aisle, remember these tips. You’ll be cracking open the perfect bag of sunflower seeds in no time. Happy snacking!

What Are The Best Sunflower Seeds For Baseball Players

I’ll share the detailed goods and bads of the below 7 sunflower seeds in this review. Let’s take a quick look at them. 

Name	Calories	Protein	Fiber	Fat	Carbs
Best Sunflower Seeds Brand: David Roasted And Salted Jumbo Sunflower Seeds	190	8g	2g	16g	6g
Best Sunflower Seeds For Eating: Terrasoul Superfoods Organic Sunflower Seeds	80	4g	1g	7g	2g
Best Sea Flavor Sunflower Seeds: GERBS Sea Salted Sunflower Seeds	170	6g	3g	13g	5g
Best Pepper Sunflower Seeds: Spitz Sunflower Seeds Cracked Pepper	170	6g	2g	9g	2g
Best BBQ Sunflower Seeds: DAVID SEEDS Roasted and Salted BBQ Sunflower Seeds	200	7g	3g	9g	7g
Best Flavored Sunflower Seeds: NOW Foods Organic Sunflower Seeds	200	7g	3g	9g	7g
Best Bigs Sunflower Seeds: BIGS Sizzlin’ Bacon Sunflower Seeds	180	7g	2g	14g	5g

Sunflower Seeds Benefits For Baseball Players And Athletes!

Alright, let’s talk sunflower seeds from a sports performance angle, not some fancy nutrition lecture. As athletes, we’re looking for that edge, right? That little boost that keeps us going strong. Sunflower seeds? They’ve got your back.

Health Benefits of Sunflower Seeds: Fueling the Athlete

Look, I’m not a nutritionist, but I’ve spent enough time on the field and in the gym to know what keeps you ticking. Sunflower seeds aren’t just a dugout staple; they’re packed with stuff that actually helps your performance.

• Muscle Recovery: Vitamin E Powerhouse:
  • After a tough workout or a long game, your muscles are screaming for some TLC. Sunflower seeds are loaded with Vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant. This stuff helps reduce muscle damage and inflammation, which means you recover faster and get back in the game sooner.  
  • Think of it as your body’s natural repair crew, working to get you back to peak condition.
• Energy Boost: Healthy Fats and Protein:
  • You need sustained energy to push through those grueling practices and intense games. Sunflower seeds are a great source of healthy fats and protein. These nutrients provide a slow-burning fuel that keeps you going strong without the crash.  
  • Forget those sugary energy drinks. Grab a handful of sunflower seeds for a natural, long-lasting boost.
• Bone Strength: Magnesium and Minerals:
  • Strong bones are crucial for any athlete. Sunflower seeds are packed with magnesium and other essential minerals that contribute to bone health. This helps prevent injuries and keeps you performing at your best.  
  • Think of it as building a solid foundation for your athletic performance.
• Electrolyte Balance: Potassium Power:
  • When you sweat, you lose electrolytes, which can lead to cramps and fatigue. Sunflower seeds contain potassium, an electrolyte that helps maintain fluid balance and muscle function.  
  • It’s like a natural way to keep your body hydrated and performing at its peak.
• Heart Health: Unsaturated Fats:
  • A healthy heart is essential for endurance and overall performance. Sunflower seeds are rich in unsaturated fats, which can help lower cholesterol and improve cardiovascular health.  
  • It is about keeping your engine running smooth.
• Fiber for Digestion:
  • Let’s be real, a sluggish digestive system can kill your performance. Sunflower seeds are a good source of fiber, which helps keep things moving smoothly.  
  • This is about keeping you light and agile.

So, next time you’re looking for a healthy snack, don’t just think about the taste. Think about the performance benefits. Sunflower seeds aren’t just a pastime; they’re a performance enhancer.

How to Eat Sunflower Seeds: A Guide for Savoring the Crunch

Okay, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. Eating sunflower seeds is an art form, and like any art, there’s a right way to do it.

1. The Crack: This is where the fun begins! Use your teeth to gently crack the shell. Don’t bite down too hard or you might end up with a mouthful of shell fragments. A gentle squeeze and a slight twist should do the trick.

2. The Spit: Now, here’s where things get interesting. You’ve got a shell in your mouth. No worries, you’re not supposed to swallow it! Spit it out discreetly. Most places have those little shells in the dugout for a reason.

3. The Enjoyment: Pop that kernel into your mouth and savor the flavor. Whether you like them salted, roasted, or plain, enjoy the satisfying crunch and the nutty flavor.

4. The Technique: Some people like to crack the seeds in their hands, others prefer to use their teeth. Experiment and find what works best for you. Some folks even use a special tool called a “sunflower seed cracker.”

5. The Manners: Remember to be mindful of your surroundings. Cracking seeds can be a bit noisy, so be considerate of those around you. And try to avoid spitting shells on the ground or in other people’s food.

6. The Mess: Sunflower seeds can be a bit messy. Have some napkins or tissues handy to wipe your hands and face.

7. The Fun: Most importantly, have fun! Eating sunflower seeds should be a pleasurable experience. Relax, enjoy the crunch, and savor the flavor.

Here are a few more tips:

• If you’re watching your weight, be mindful of portion sizes.
• If you’re sharing, offer the bag around to your friends or teammates.
• And remember, sunflower seeds are a great source of protein and healthy fats, so enjoy them guilt-free!

Top 7 Sunflower Seeds For Baseball Players

Based on the personal choice of the baseball players and athletes, I have categorized my list in following categories.

“Best Organic Sunflower Seeds”
“Best Flavored Sunflower Seeds”
“Best Salted Sunflower Seeds”
“Best Low Sodium Sunflower Seeds”
“Best Sunflower Seeds for Athletes”
“Best Sunflower Seeds for Kids”

1. Best Sunflower Seeds Brand: David Roasted And Salted Jumbo Sunflower Seeds

David Sunflower Seeds began roasting and seasoning their products in California, United States, in 1926. The company has been family-owned and operated ever since, supplying quality seeds to Americans. 

These roasted and salted jumbo sunflower seeds are carefully selected and roasted with a thin layer of sunflower oil to achieve their signature crispiness. This specific oil choice is important for transparency and caters to those with dietary considerations.

Sunflower oil is generally well-regarded and suitable for a wide range of consumers. Knowing the exact oil used allows individuals with specific dietary restrictions or allergies to make informed choices. The roasting process, combined with this light oil coating, enhances the natural nutty flavor and provides that satisfying crunch we all love.

Every little pack serves you 190 calories. The sunflower seeds are naturally low in carbs (3g/per serving) and high in fiber (2g/per serving), making them a healthy snack option. 

It’s also rich in protein. You get 8g of protein in every packet. They are also gluten-free and vegan-friendly.

The package comes in 12 bags, weighing 5.25oz, gives you a whopping 24 servings of delicious sunflower seeds. They come pre-packaged in a resealable bag, so you can store them for later use.

These roasted and salted jumbo sunflower seeds are perfect for adding a little crunch to your foods.

What I like about it

• Good supplement for morning meals 
• Low carbohydrates match weight loss diet plans
• Roasted seeds provide salty, flavorful tastes in every bite
• Rich protein makes them for muscle building diet 
• Delivers balanced calories in every serving 

Cons

• Some may not like the salty flavor
• A bit pricier as they’re hand-selected seeds

Verdict 

David Roasted and Salted Jumbo Sunflower Seeds are a satisfying snack with a classic, robust flavor. They are an excellent option for those looking for a high-protein, high-fiber snack, especially for those who enjoy a salty flavor.

However, individuals watching their sodium intake should consume them in moderation. They are great for people who love salty snacks, and athletes who need protein and salt. They are not a great choice for people who are on low sodium diets.

2. Best Sunflower Seeds For Eating: Terrasoul Superfoods Organic Hulled Sunflower Seeds

As a baseball manager, I’m always mindful of what I put into my body, and Terrasoul Superfoods Organic Hulled Sunflower Seeds have become a regular part of my routine. These seeds offer a pure, nutty taste and a wealth of nutritional benefits.

Key Features and Benefits:

• Organic and Non-GMO:
  • Terrasoul’s hulled sunflower seeds are sourced from certified organic farms, ensuring they are grown without chemical fertilizers or pesticides. This delivers a clean, wholesome snack.  
  • They are also free from gluten, soy, and dairy, making them suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
• Nutrient-Rich:
  • These seeds provide a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to overall health.  
  • Each serving contains approximately 181 calories, with a significant portion coming from healthy fats.
  • With only 6g of carbs per serving and a good source of dietary fiber, they can be part of a balanced diet.

Pros:

• Grown without chemicals or pesticides.
• Processed organically.
• Suitable for various dietary needs.
• Good source of healthy fats and fiber.

Cons:

• Some users report finding small seed fragments or dust in the bags.
• The seeds are generally smaller in size compared to in-shell varieties, which may affect texture preference.

Verdict:

Terrasoul Superfoods Organic Hulled Sunflower Seeds are a great option for individuals seeking a clean, organic, and versatile snack. Their mild, nutty flavor makes them easy to incorporate into various dishes.

While some users have noted the presence of small seed fragments and smaller seed size, the overall nutritional benefits and organic sourcing make them a worthwhile choice. They are perfect for people who want to add sunflower seeds to their yogurt, oatmeal, and salads. They are also a great snack for people who are on a low sodium diet.

3. Best Sea Flavor Sunflower Seeds: GERBS Jumbo Lightly Sea Salted Whole Sunflower Seeds

This sunflower seed is a beneficial addition to your intake. GERBS Jumbo is packed with all the essential vitamins and minerals your skin, hair, and nails need. Plus, they’re low in calories and sugar-free so that you can indulge guilt-free. 

Not only are they some of the best quality seeds around, but they also have a lot of great features that make them stand out from the rest. 

For instance, these seeds are gluten-free, have a low glycemic index, and are a good source of healthy fats. They also contain high antioxidants, which help shield your body from free radicals. It also has Phytosterols, a type of cholesterol-lowering compound.

Without raw intaking, you can eat the seeds with different recipes, such as oatmeal or salad dressings.

“Antioxidants are substances that neutralize free radicals. Free radicals are molecules that have an unpaired electron, and they can cause damage to cells in the body.”

Every bag of sunflower seed can deliver you 32 servings, and each serving provides 80 calories only. So, you don’t need to stress about calorie burn. 

Also, GERBS didn’t add substantial carbohydrates (only 2g) to keep it suitable for baseball players and other athletes.  

The only thing that I don’t like about this sunflower seed pack is its high amount of fat and low dietary fiber compared to others on the list. 

Goodside

• No artificial chemicals have been used
• Friendly for both kosher and vegans 
• Consists of a high amount of vitamins and minerals 
• Packed with all freshly sourced ingredients
• Suitable for people with the mild and severe allergy issues 

Downside

• High amount of fat may not be good for a weight loss diet 
• Doesn’t have sufficient dietary fiber 

Verdict 

If you’re looking for the best whole sunflower seeds that cover your required vitamin and mineral supplement, you should GERBS Jumbo Sea salted whole sunflower seeds a try. It’s not suggested if you’re on a strict diet for weight loss. 

4. Best Pepper Sunflower Seeds: Spitz Sunflower Seeds Cracked Pepper

Spitz sunflower seeds are perfect for adding flavor to your favorite dishes. These seeds come packed with cracked pepper, giving them a unique and flavorful kick. Spitz sunflower seeds are also a healthy snack option, ideal for any meal.

All Spitz sunflower seeds are sourced with care. Therefore, you’ll see a larger kernel-shell ratio in each packet. And as you’re getting more seeds, you’ll get a bank of nutritious value.

In every pack, you’ll get 170 calories to boost your energy on the field. The sunflower seeds are sure to please with a great balance of essential oils and proteins.

They’re high in fiber and healthy omega-3 fatty acids, making them a great choice for maintaining a healthy diet. It also serves you 6g of protein in every serving.

You shouldn’t be surprised by its high fat rate, which’s 13g/per serving, as it’s mainly produced for foodies to give a satisfying taste. 

There’s also a higher margin of carbs in this sunflower seed pack. Hence, I won’t suggest it to anyone on a strict diet chart.

The secret behind the amazing taste is their roasting process. Unlike typical roasted sunflower seeds, these have been followed by a small batch of concentrated roasting. The result is nothing but a mouthwatering tasty seed.

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Goodside

• Can be stored at room temperature long period 
• Cracked pepper flavor shares a satisfying taste in every bite
• Good intake serves rich calories for daily meal 
• Larger kernel to shell ratio than others
• Adequate amount of iron for gastrointestinal processes

Downside

• Dietary fiber is less than other sunflower seeds
• High fat amount may not be suitable for a strict diet

Verdict 

The cracked pepper variant is perfect for those who want a bit of crunchiness in their food and a spicy flavor. It’s not recommended to anyone who’s on a weight loss diet. 

5. Best BBQ Sunflower Seeds: DAVID SEEDS Roasted and Salted BBQ Sunflower Seeds

To most baseball players, Devid sunflower seeds are quite a favorite, including me also. They’ve some of the best sunflower seeds available – perfect if you want to BBQ something delicious. 

Unlike the previously mentioned one, this sunflower seed pack comes in a smaller size, excellent for on-the-go intake. 

These seeds come in a pack of twelve, and each bag contains 1.625 ounces of roasted and salted BBQ sunflower seeds. 

And I can assure you that they’ll leave your taste buds begging for more after one bite. It’s hard to find elsewhere. They’re great for both morning and evening snacks. 

It’s not only the texture and flavor that’re the major traits of the David sunflower seeds. The nutritious value you’ll get in them is inevident. With 2g net carbs per serving, they fit into most low-carb diets.

I personally feel that protein should be a regular part of your meal if you’re a baseball player or related to other sports. 

And you can fulfill the requirement with each serving of Devid seeds. The pack has 6g of protein in each serving. Also, you’ll get 8% of your daily dietary needs per serving.

Goodside

• Host a good source of protein 
• Doesn’t conflict with the low carb diet 
• Works well for reducing heart disease risk 
• Suitable for people with type 2 diabetes 
• Low-fat nature makes it perfect for a weight loss diet 

Downside

• A little pricier than other sunflower seeds
• Some may not like the salty taste 

Verdict 

It’s a perfect sunflower seed for those looking for a snack that won’t ruin their weight loss diet. However, the salty taste may not satisfy everyone’s tongue. 

6. Best Flavored Sunflower Seeds: NOW Foods Organic Sunflower Seeds

Elrood Richard founded the company in 1968. Back then, it was just a chain of food stores in Chicago. But now, “Now Foods” is a global title and is appreciated for serving healthy foods in many countries. 

Are you looking for a healthy snack or meal replacement that’s both delicious and nutritious? If so, then you should definitely check out the NOW Foods organic sunflower seeds. 

This review would be incomplete without this pick. It’s my other favorite organic sunflower seeds pack. 

These seeds are perfect for those who want to boost their health and enjoy natural flavors. They’re also a great way to add a little something extra to your diet, as they‘ve no GMOs. 

Not only are these hulled for good taste, but also you should try this one for nutritious values. Why?

Because the sunflower seeds are rich in vitamins E and fiber. Now, if you don’t know, Vitamin E creates a solid safeguard in your body against disease and infection. It’s also great for our eyes and skin. 

To be more specific, this seed pack is mainly suitable for foodies. The calorie level is higher per serving compared to the rest of other sunflower seed brands. 

As each serving indulges you in up to 18g of fat, it may not be the best sunflower seed for folks on weight loss. However, it has a good source of protein (7g). Another downside of these sunflower seeds is the high rate of carbs per serving.  

Goodside

• Good source of essential vitamins 
• Boosts up the immune system
• No use of chemicals or preservatives
• Best sunflower seed for pricing too
• Suitable sunflower seeds for birds

Downside

• Seeds’ size is a little tinier than others
• Tastes a bit dull as not roasted or salted 

Verdict 

I recommend these seeds to anyone looking for a healthy snack or meal replacement. It may not be the right option if you like salty or roasted sunflower seeds.

7. Best Bigs Sunflower Seeds: BIGS Sizzlin’ Bacon Sunflower Seeds

I’ll wrap up this best sunflower seed review with one of my favorite seed producer brands, Bigs Sizzlin’. The sunflower seed brand offers a huge variety of flavors to please any food lover. Kitchen Happens published regular post on various types of Food & Recipe which may help players.

Are you a bacon lover? If so, you’ll love the Bigs sunflower seed flavors. Besides, the jumbo bacon sunflower seeds are larger than average. 

These delicious seeds come infused with bacon bits. They’ve got an amazing crunch that’ll have your taste buds singing praises.  

Without that, the Bigs sunflower seed is also recommended for people on a low-carb diet. And as it includes 0% sugar, it’s also friendly for diabetic patients.

It’s also a good pick as a protein supplement, making it perfect for baseball players and other athletic minds. You’ll get 180 calories per serving in this sunflower seeds pack. 

Best of all, these seeds are perfect for anyone looking for a hearty snack that’ll keep them energized during those long baseball games or workouts. 

Goodside

• Larger seeds size than others 
• Bacon flavor gives a unique and mouthwatering taste 
• Good as regular snack replacement because of high calories 
• Consists high amount of dietary fibers 
• Provides sufficient protein intake per serving 

Downside

• May not be a good choice for diabetic
• High carb ratio doesn’t suit weight loss diet plan 

Verdict 

It’s a great snack for people who’re fond of bacon. I won’t suggest it for high amounts of carbohydrates. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which brand of sunflower seeds is best?

If considering the sunflower seed quality and aftersale support, Davids, Bigs seeds, Terrasoul Superfoods, and GERBs are the best sunflower seeds brands in the market.

What are the best giant sunflower seeds?

You mean jumbo seeds. In this criteria, the DAVID Roasted and Salted Jumbo, Bigs Seeds Bacon sunflower seeds, and Spitz Sunflower Seeds Cracked Pepper are good choices.  

Is there a difference in sunflower seeds?

Researchers from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln set out to find out, and their findings suggest there might be a small but noticeable difference. 

The study found that sunflower seeds from South America had more antioxidants than those from North America. They also found that the South American seeds had higher levels of vitamin E and magnesium.

What are the best flavors of sunflower seeds?

That’s a matter of personal taste! Some popular flavors include roasted, salted, unsalted, barbecue, dill pickle, and hot. Experiment and see what you enjoy most.

How do I store sunflower seeds?

Store sunflower seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to keep them fresh and crunchy. Avoid storing them in direct sunlight or high humidity.

Are sunflower seed shells safe to eat?

No, it’s best to avoid eating sunflower seed shells. They can be difficult to digest and may even cause intestinal blockage.

What are the dangers of sunflower seeds?

Sunflower seeds are a popular snack food, but they are also known to contain harmful substances. Some of these substances can cause stomach aches, vomiting, and constipation if you eat them regularly. Sunflower seeds can also cause allergic reactions in some people.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, if you’re looking for the best sunflower seeds, you should definitely consider buying natural and organic options.

From my experience, David sunflower seeds are great for health benefits. They’re high in vitamin E, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids. 

Also, they tend to have a slightly higher nutrient content and are generally GMO-free. Make sure to store your sunflower seeds in a cool and dry place for longer consumption.