Chia seed benefits

Chia seeds are the richest natural source of omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. They are rich in minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, and protein and fibre. Additionally, chia seeds contain a lot of vitamins and unsaturated linoleic fatty acid, which the body cannot produce on its own. These seeds bind water to themselves, so they help hydrate the body, support digestion, give a feeling of satiety and increase the absorption of nutrients in the intestines. They have super nutritional value and low glycemic index. Chia seeds are one of the few foods that can be found in a completely intact form, not genetically modified and with so much nutritional power.

Chia is a species of flowering plant in the mint family, native to central and southern Mexico and Guatemala. These small nutritious seeds are a very important crop for the locals. They contain calcium, manganese and phosphorus, and are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. Chia seeds are tasteless, so they won’t affect the taste of your dish, making them easy to use in variety of recipes. You can sprinkle them on salads, add them to sweets, drinks…

 

10 reasons why to enjoy chia seeds:

Prevent diabetes 

Chia seeds are a great choice for people with diabetes (type 2 diabetes) because of their ability to lower blood sugar levels. It is recommended to consume chia gel as it prevents the rise of blood glucose. To prepare chia gel soak 1/3 cup of seeds in 1.5 – 2 cups of water, milk or yogurt and wait for at least 10 minutes for the seeds to swell.

 

Rich source of dietary fibre

28 grams of chia seeds contain 11 grams of fibre, which is about a third of the recommended daily intake for adults. Enjoying these seeds has a very positive effect on the digestive system, precisely because of the high fibre content.

 

An excellent source of omega 3 fatty acids

As already mentioned, chia seeds are an excellent plant-based source of omega 3 fatty acids, which have a positive effect on the functioning of our brains. Chia seeds are a better source of omega 3 than the flax seeds.

 

Support healthy teeth and strong bones

Because of their high calcium content, they have a positive effect on bone and tooth health and prevent osteoporosis.

 

High manganese content

Manganese is also important for bone health, stimulates thyroid function and helps our body to produce energy from ingested foods. One serving (28 grams) of chia seeds contains 30 percent of the recommended daily intake of this mineral.

 

High phosphorus content

One serving of chia seeds contains 27 percent of the recommended daily intake of this mineral. Phosphorus plays an important role in bone and tooth health, and in addition promotes heart and kidney health.

 

Great source of protein

Chia seeds are a great source of protein for vegetarians, plus do not contain cholesterol. One serving of chia seeds (28 grams) contains 4.4 grams of protein, which is almost 10 percent of the recommended daily intake for adults.

 

Prevent the accumulation of fat around the abdomen

Due to their ability to regulate blood sugar levels and their low glycemic index, they prevent the accumulation of fat.

 

Help the weight loss

Eating chia gel promotes satiety for a long time, and in addition, will nourish your body with all the important vitamins and minerals. Chia seeds absorb the fluids from the body and swell like a sponge in the stomach, giving a feeling of satiety. Chia seeds are a great food that helps burn fat and prevents fat accumulation. They contain tryptophan, which is a natural appetite suppressant.

 

Take care of the heart

Chia seeds have been shown to lower high blood pressure, increase healthy cholesterol and lower bad cholesterol, which is good for a healthy heart.