“Ch-ch-ch-chia” could have been a familiar jingle back in the 1980’s. Little did we know that these ceramic pets sprouting grass “hair” will become highly popular edible seeds years later. These seeds are the most healthiest food options. Chia is eaten as energy boosters and stand for strength.
Functional foods like chia seeds are known to offer benefits above their nutritional value like reducing their cholesterol levels or improving gut health. To enhance their appeal to health-conscious consumers, chia seeds are used ingredients for less nutritious items like snacks or baked goods.
The health benefits of these seeds are to reduce an individual’s appetite and weight, lower one’s triglycerides and improve one’s blood sugar levels.
Chia Seeds and Health
Chia seeds have a number of elements that are a part of a balanced plant rich diet, that could prevent the development of various serious diseases. It is high in linoleic and alpha-linolenic fatty acids. A large percentage of the oil is from the omega 3 fatty acids in the seeds.
Abundant in Nutrients:
The number of nutrients present in chia seeds makes it a go to option for all fitness lovers. Chia seeds were an important food item for the Aztecs and Mayans in the past.
One ounce (about 2 tablespoons) contains 139 calories, 4 grams of protein, 9 gm fat, 12 gm carbohydrates and 11 gm of fibre, plus vitamins and minerals. Also, the presence of antioxidants help one from free radicals that might damage the cell molecules.
Chia seeds expand in the belly making one feel fuller therefore, making one eat less leading to weight loss. The high protein content is also a reason for one to opt for chia seeds as it is a weight loss friendly dietary nutrient.
Some amazing ways to add chia seeds to your diet:
1.Add chia seeds to your daily foods like yogurt, smoothies or oatmeal.
2. Add ¼ cup of chia seeds to 1 cup of water to make a thick paste, it can be used as a nutritional booster or thickener to a various different food items.
3. Make a delicious chia pudding using a ¼ cup chia seeds to 1 cup of milk. Top it off with some delicious seasonal fruits.
4. Add nice 2 tablespoons of chia seeds to your favourite oats recipe to give it a good hint of nutrition that offers it a thick consistency.
So, it’s time you add a good dose of chia seeds to your diet and enjoy the health benefits of chia seeds. These small fluffy seeds are a go to food item for all fitness enthusiasts out there.
