to ask about nutritional value of seeds?

[LockedOutOfMN]

I like to eat seeds as they taste good and I believe they contain some protein and other nutrients. However, they always come out whole in my poo. Am I not gaining any benefit from eating them? Or is there something wrong with my digestive system?

I don't know, I don't eat seeds - I'm not a budgerigar

Sorry OP, it's past midnight and I go into silly mode. I can't answer your question but hope someone more sensible than me can

If they’re coming out whole, why the heck don’t you actually chew them?
Seeds have protein and also zinc and iron so are healthy. They also have phytates which can inhibit absorption of things like zinc and iron, so best to roast them which reduces the phytates.

If they’re coming out whole, why the heck don’t you actually chew them?

I’ve seen them whole in my stools as well

The seeds I'm eating aren't chewy? I mean the bigger ones like sunflower and obviously pumpkin are broken into pieces by my teeth but I wouldn't say they're really chewable. Big or small, they still come out looking exactly like seeds or bits of seeds.

Yes, I tend to roast them (apart from of course when they're in bread or other pre-prepared dishes).

If they’re coming out whole it’s essentially pointless. You need to chew them

Sorry for the stupid question...again, how does one chew a seed? They're too small and hard, surely?

they don't all come out whole.
just the shells come out in most cases with the contents replaced with...

That's a good point, bluerunningshoes. I imagine the shells are the toughest part so will stay relatively intact through the digestive process. Thanks.

With seeds to get their full nutritional value you seed to soak them in water first, preferably overnight. It activates their growing cells and when you eat them your body absorbs more of their goodness apparently.
The PP is right though, you’re likely just pooping out their outer shell

wellnessmama.com/59139/soaking-nuts-seeds/

Here read this

Thanks, that's really interesting. I'll try that next time.