Til and Sunflower Seeds: The Luteal Phase Pair
In seed cycling, sesame and sunflower seeds make up the second half of the month. Both are already familiar in Pakistani kitchens — think til ki chikki and roasted sunflower snacks.
What these seeds offer
Sesame seeds provide healthy fats, plant protein and minerals; unhulled (brown) sesame contains more calcium than hulled white sesame. Sunflower seeds are known for vitamin E and also provide healthy fats and protein.
How to toast them
Sesame burns quickly: use a dry pan on low heat and stir constantly for 2–4 minutes until golden and fragrant. Sunflower kernels take a little longer, about 5–7 minutes. Toast them separately, then mix.
Desi ways to use them
Til ki chikki or laddu with gur.
Sesame sprinkled on naan, salads or stir-fries.
Sunflower seeds stirred into dahi, chaat or trail mix.
Til chutney ground with garlic, chilli and lemon.
In seed cycling
People who follow seed cycling eat sesame and sunflower seeds from ovulation until the next period, commonly about one tablespoon of each a day. Seed cycling is a food routine, not a treatment; there is little direct research on it.
Allergy note
Sesame is one of the more common food allergens. If you or your family have food allergies, check carefully before eating or serving sesame.
If you have a medical condition, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or take medication, ask a qualified healthcare professional before changing your diet.
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