Sunflower seeds are a popular snack, but their shells pose potential digestive issues. According to Dt Ginni Kalra, Head of Dietetics at Aakash Healthcare, while sunflower seed shells are not toxic, they are not designed for digestion due to their dense and fibrous nature. Small amounts may pass through the digestive system, but their rough texture can cause irritation. Consuming larger quantities can lead to clumping in the intestines, resulting in symptoms like abdominal pain and constipation. Regularly eating sunflower seed shells may cause ongoing irritation of the gut lining, potentially worsening conditions such as hemorrhoids. To avoid these issues, Dt Kalra advises eating only the seeds and discarding the shells. If shells are accidentally ingested, it's important to monitor for symptoms like persistent pain or vomiting, which may indicate a blockage and require medical attention.