Why Do Baseball Players Eat Sunflower Seeds?
If you’ve ever watched a baseball game, you’ve probably seen players eating sunflower seeds. But why do they eat them? What benefits do they provide? This post will take a closer look at why baseball players love to munch on sunflower seeds.
1. Stress Reliever
Sunflower seeds are a healthy snack that can help keep players’ energy levels up during long games. The act of shelling the seeds also can be soothing and help to relieve stress. Many players say that shelling sunflower seeds are one of the game’s favorite parts.
2. Substitute For Chewing Tabacco
For baseball players, chewing sunflower seeds is a way to pass the time between pitches. But sunflower seeds are more than just a tasty snack – they also provide a safe alternative to chewing tobacco. While chewing tobacco has been a part of baseball for centuries, its use has declined in recent years. This is partly due to the health risks associated with tobacco use, including an increased risk of cancer.
Sunflower seeds offer a similar experience – chewing can help relieve stress and calm nerves without the same health risks. As a result, sunflower seeds have become a popular choice for players looking for a safe way to chew during games.
3. Nutrition
When you think of a baseball player, you might picture someone chewing tobacco in their mouth with a wad of chewing tobacco. However, more and more players are turning to sunflower seeds as a healthy alternative. Sunflower seeds are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, and selenium. They also contain antioxidants that can help protect cells from damage.
Sunflower seeds are a low-fat snack that provides a substantial amount of protein. For baseball players, who need to maintain their energy levels during long games, sunflower seeds can be a helpful way to refuel.
4. Boredom
Any baseball fan knows that the game can be long and drawn out, with moments of intense excitement punctuated by long stretches of waiting. The game can be even more tedious for players, as they often have to stand around for long periods without anything to do. Chewing sunflower seeds is one way that players help pass the time and stay focused.
The seeds also provide a subtle energy source, assisting players in staying alert during long games. In addition, sunflower seeds are known to have a calming effect, which can help deal with the pressure of performing in front of a large crowd.
How To Eat Sunflower Seeds
While sunflower seeds are a common snack in baseball, have you ever stopped to wonder how you are supposed to eat them? The first step is to crack open the shell.
You can do this with your teeth or use a nutcracker or similar tool. Once the shell is open, you can pop the seed into your mouth and enjoy it. Some people like removing the kernel from the shell before eating, but this is unnecessary.
Do They Come In Different Flavors?
While sunflower seeds may all look the same, a surprisingly wide variety of flavors is available. Common flavors include salt, vinegar, BBQ, chili pepper, and ranch. More adventurous flavor profiles have become available in recent years, such as Wasabi, sour cream, onion, and even chocolate covered.
With so many choices on the market, it can be hard to decide which type to buy. However, many baseball players prefer to stick with classic flavors like salt, vinegar, or BBQ. The salty taste helps to keep them hydrated during long games, and the familiar taste provides a welcome distraction from the stress of competition.
Where Can I Buy Sunflower Seeds?
You can buy sunflower seeds anywhere – supermarkets, convenience stores, drugstores, etc. However, a sporting goods store is the best place to buy sunflower seeds for baseball. Most sporting goods stores sell sunflower seeds designed explicitly for baseball players.
These sunflower seeds are typically larger and have a thinner shell, making them easier to eat while playing baseball. They are often sold in individual packs, making it easy to grab a few seeds before heading out to the field.
