Despite their small size, these tiny seeds pack a powerful nutritional punch. They are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which help to raise HDL cholesterol (the good cholesterol that helps protect against heart attack and stroke). Chia seeds are also rich in antioxidants and full of fiber, magnesium, zinc, iron and calcium.
Don’t be fooled by their size, these tiny little seeds are loaded with nutrition
Many health experts believe that chia seeds can aid with weight loss due to their high fiber and protein content. The fiber absorbs water and aids in digestion which can increase the feeling of fullness and the absorption of nutrients. A diet with adequate fiber prevents constipation and promotes regularity by eliminating junk build up from the intestines. It also helps you get rid of toxins in the digestive tract. The protein in chia seeds could help keep you satiated thus controlling excessive food intake and cravings.
Chia seeds absorb a lot of water after consumption and can help a person keep well hydrated for longer by retaining the electrolytes present in the body fluids.
Their mild, nutty flavor makes them very versatile which is why they can be easily used in various recipes without changing the taste. You can eat them raw or cooked. Soak them in juice or nut milk to make a yummy pudding like treat. Sprinkle chia seeds on cereal, yogurt, and oatmeal or in your smoothies. Add them to baked goods like bread and muffins.
If you run out of eggs, you can mix 1 tablespoon of chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water, let them sit for a few minutes, and watch them turn into a gel that you can use as a substitute for eggs or oil or other fats in a variety of recipes.
Chia seeds are relatively easy to find in any major supermarket and are only slightly smaller than a strawberry seed.
And yes, if you are remembering those Chia Pets from the 80’s these are the same seeds that were used to sprout within a couple of weeks to resemble the animal’s fur or hair. Little did we know?
So what are chia seeds?
Salvia hispanica, commonly known as chia, is a type of sage in the mint family native to central and southern Mexico and Guatemala. Chia seeds were a staple of the ancient Aztec diet and they prized them for their ability to provide sustainable energy. In fact, “chia” is the ancient Mayan word for “strength.”
Despite their ancient history as a dietary staple, only recently did chia seeds become recognized as a modern day superfood.
In the past few years, they have exploded in popularity and are now consumed by health conscious people all over the world.
Chia seeds are among the healthiest foods on the planet.
