Although they haven’t been part of the mainstream health craze for a long time, chia seeds have long been considered one of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet. Chia seeds were a staple food among certain ancient civilizations, primarily the Aztecs of Central America, where chia is believed to have originated. The benefits of chia seeds are enormous and can help your body from head to toe. But how wonderful is this superfood? These are the top 6 benefits of chia seeds.
Few calories, many nutrients
Many nutrient-dense foods are also high in calories, making them great in some ways, but counterproductive to weight loss goals if consumed in excess. Chia is a great option for those looking to lose weight but maintain nutritional intake because chia seeds are very low in calories. They’re packed with fiber, protein, calcium, healthy fats, and more.
High in protein
Many plants require you to consume large portions if you want to achieve a high protein intake. Chia is a great source of protein, and 14% of a serving of chia seeds is made up of protein. High protein is also great for weight loss because it can reduce appetite and potentially reduce subconscious obsessive thinking about food, as well as the need to snack at night.
Substantial omega-3 content
Many people immediately turn to foods like fish to find their Omega-3 fatty acids. But would you believe that the same weight of chia seeds contains more omega-3 fatty acids than salmon? This is what makes chia a leading superfood in the consumption of healthy fats.
Lower risk of heart disease
While the results are not entirely conclusive, some studies have shown that consuming chia seeds can reduce the risk of heart disease. This is due to its high fiber, omega-3 fatty acids and protein content. Tests have shown that there may be the potential to reduce inflammation, insulin resistance, and fat around the midsection.
Excellent for bone health
The high calcium, protein, magnesium, and calcium content in chia seeds makes this superfood a great supporter of bone health. The calcium content is around 18% in chia seeds, which is actually more than most typical dairy products on the market. This makes chia an excellent option for those following a plant-based diet and looking to strengthen bone health; With a higher calcium content than most dairy products, it could also be beneficial for dairy lovers.
Easy to use
Many health trends can be difficult to incorporate into your diet if you are not familiar with healthy eating. But what makes chia such a popular health food is its versatility and ease of use for the average person. Anyone can start using chia in their diet; It’s as simple as adding chia to oatmeal or porridge, smoothies and drinks, yogurt or even baking them into bread, treats or any other food. They’re pretty bland, but they add a hearty texture, so they pair well with almost any recipe or homemade concoction you can think of.
