Chia seeds are identified as tiny black and white seeds. It comes from the plant named Salvia Hispanica, hailing from the mint family. Popular worldwide, chia seeds are not only nutrient-dense but also support digestive, heart, and brain functions and give us a wealth of advantages.
So through this blog, let’s explore some of its wonderful advantages along with their nutritional chart and ways you can include chia seeds in your diet.
Nutritional Chart of Chia Seeds
The chart is as per 100 grams quantity of chia seeds:
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 486 Kcal |
Protein | 16.5 g |
Fat | 30.7 g |
Carbohydrates | 42.1 g |
Fiber | 34.4 g |
Omega -3 Fatty Acids | 17.8 g |
Calcium | 631 mg |
Magnesium | 335 mg |
Phosphorus | 860 mg |
Potassium | 407 mg |
Iron | 7.7 mg |
Zinc | 4.6 mg |
Benefits of Chia Seeds
Antioxidants Champions
Yes, you heard that right ! Chia seeds are so much rich in antioxidants, that they can proudly be termed as the antioxidant champions. Chia seeds contain antioxidants like quercetin, chlorogenic, and caffeic acid. These compounds can excellently fight oxidative stress while they can even nourish your body and protect it from any cellular damage.
Supports weight loss
Chia Seeds have rich fiber content and can help you feel full for a long, ultimately reducing your unnecessary cravings while also affecting your calorie intake. It can even help you curb your hunger pangs while helping you manage your weight.
Rich source of Omega 3
Chia seeds are one of the best sources of Omega 3 as they contain a high amount of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). Omega 3 is essential for heart and brain health and also reduces inflammations, regulates blood pressure, and improves cholesterol levels. Therefore, incorporating chia seeds in your meals can help ensure you get enough omega 3 without relying on any animal product.
Boosts Hydration
Chia seeds are a great source of hydration too. When soaked in water for few hours, chia seeds absorb much water which helps with hydration boost. It is particularly beneficial for athletes or people who indulge in high density workout.
Blood Sugar Balancers
Chia seeds are widely famous for regulating the blood sugar in your body. It helps stabilize these levels because of its high fiber content. Being rich in fiber slows down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, preventing spiking of sugar levels. It also saves you from developing metabolic syndrome.
Adding chia seeds to your everyday food can effectively manage blood sugar levels while you can enjoy your delicious meals.
Your Energy Boosters
Rich in complex carbs, protein, and good fats, chia seeds offer a consistent supply of energy. The best time to maintain your energy levels throughout the day is by consuming chia seed water in the morning.
Your Skin Savior
Chia seeds’ omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants can have a major positive impact on skin health. They help fight oxidative stress and prevent premature aging. It keeps your skin moisturized and radiant while lowering inflammation.
According to research, chia seed extract may enhance skin function by shielding the skin from aging-related enzymes. These little seeds can help promote healthier skin whether eaten or used topically with oils or lotions containing chia seed extract.
Hair Heroes
Chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, calcium, and magnesium. All these compounds collectively promote hair growth by giving nourishment to hair follicles from within. If you consume chia seeds on regular basis then it can prevent overall hair loss contributing to stronger strands.
Cancer Fighting Superpowers
According to recent studies, it has been found that chia seeds have anti oxidants which may even prevent cancer. Chia seeds combat two major factors, oxidative stress and inflammation, which are linked to cancer development. Further, the fiber content in chia seeds aids in faster digestion by promoting bowel movements reducing risk of colon cancer.
Ways to include Chia Seeds in Your everyday Diet
These are so many ways you can consume chia seeds directly or indirectly. Let’s learn some of the easy and healthy ways to include it in your daily meals:
- Chia Seeds water : You may term it as the most simple and easy way to consume chia seeds. As you need to just soak 1-2 tablespoons of chia seeds in a glass of water for 30 minutes to an hour. Stir the water thoroughly before consuming and enjoy your healthy tonic.
- Chia Pudding : If you are having sweet cravings, then this chia seed would be the best pick. It will not only satisfy your cravings but will also help you burn some extra calories. You can mix here chia seeds with milk or any other dairy free alternative, add some honey or maple syrup and then refrigerate it overnight to serve yourself a delicious pudding.
- Smoothies : Smoothies are another tasty and healthy way to consume your daily dose of chia seeds. Smoothies are not only delicious to have but are also loaded with added fiber and nutrients. You just have to blend some chia seeds along with your favourite fruits and enjoy.
- Baking: For added goodness to regular cakes, muffins and breads, you can add chia seeds on top. Adding chia seeds will improve your food’s texture, taste and nutritional value.
- Yogurt and Oatmeal topping : This is another easy to have chia seeds where you have to just sprinkle chia seeds over your regular bowl of yogurt, oatmeal or cereal. Chia seeds will not only add crunch to your food but will also add to the nutritional value.
- Chia-infused lemonade: Searching for a healthy refreshing drink, try this healthy summer drink. Just add some chia seeds and ice to your lemonade, and get yourself a tasty and fat burning mocktail.
- Salads and dressings : You can use chia seeds in your everyday regular salads and dressings, but just sprinkling a tablespoon of chia seeds directly over various salads for a healthy boost to your salad. You can also add chia seeds to the dressings you prepare for your salad.
Takeaway
Chia seeds are power packed seeds that help improve the overall health. It helps in aiding heart health while also dealing effectively with digestion issues and weight management. So start incorporating chia seeds in your daily diet to witness positive transformation in your body.