• Chia seeds can be added in many recipes including water, salads, pudding or smoothies.
• The fiber and protein in chia seeds may benefit those trying to lose weight.
Chia seeds are small, oval, naturally gluten-free pale brown edible seeds.
These seeds are known as a superfood as they contain antioxidants, minerals, fibre, calcium, omega-3 fatty acids, and protein which makes them one of the world’s greatest sources of many essential nutrients, with almost zero calorie intake.
Chia seeds can be added in many recipes including water, yoghurt, salads, pudding or smoothies.
- They are good for your bones
Chia seeds are packed with calcium, phosphorus and magnesium, which are essential nutrients for bone health and bone density which is associated with bone strength.
- They are good for digestion
They act as a prebiotic which means, they help your stomach produce good bacteria that help keep your digestive system working properly.
The fact that they are rich in fibre helps prevent constipation ensuring one has regular bowel movements which are crucial for the daily excretion of toxins through bile and stool.
They also collect toxins on their way out thus helping in detoxifying the body.
- They are good for your heart
Chia seeds are effective at reducing blood pressure as they're high in omega-3 fatty acids which are known to work as blood thinners thus lowering the risk of blood clotting, heart disease, stroke, or sudden cardiac death.
Studies have suggested that chia seeds significantly reduced blood pressure in people with hypertension, or high blood pressure, which is a strong risk factor for heart disease.
Chia seeds may benefit heart health, but more research is needed.
- Packed with antioxidants
Chia seeds are packed with antioxidants not only protect the sensitive fats but also benefit human health by neutralizing reactive molecules known as free radicals, which can damage cell compounds if they build up in your body and cause aging or cancers.
- Helps lower bad cholesterol level
Protein in chia seeds could help reduce appetite and food intake.
It is also packed with fiber and increased intake of fibre has been found to lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
These fibers help lower "bad" cholesterol and slow down digestion which in turn prevents blood sugar spikes after consuming a meal.
They also help regulate and lower inflammation, thus reducing the risk of inflammation-related conditions such as obesity, and cardiovascular diseases.