What the Heck is a Chia seed? And 5 reasons you should be eating them!

Superfoods are everywhere. And I bet you’ve heard of seeds like flax and chia seeds but do you the ins and outs of them.. where they’re from and why you should be adding them to your diet. Well keep reading for more info about chia seeds… 😉

Do you remember Chia pets?

 

… Those same seeds that grew fuzzy green coats and hair in a pot are the same seeds you may be putting in your smoothie! They are both CHIA seeds! These tiny black seeds are called Salvia hispanica and are a part of the mint family. They are indigenous to Mexico, and Latin American and were grown by the Aztecs and Mayans.  Chia seeds are a superfood that are all the rage these days and pack nutritional benefits ranging from your heart to your bones.

So you ask “Should I be eating them regularly? Here’s 5 top seasons why you may want to add Chia seeds to your diet.

Digestive Health:                                                                                                                                          Chia seeds are rich in fiber and that means they help keep you regular and your colon working smoothly. They are especially great for people who suffer from constipation since the high fiber content helps fight constipation. And an added bonus chia seeds are gluten free!

Weight Loss:                                                                                                                                              Since chia seeds are rich in fiber they help keep you full. They actually absorb up to 10x their weight in water.  Chia seeds also are rich in protein – 1oz of chia seeds has almost 6g of protein. The fiber and protein in chia seeds helps with hunger cues and aids in food cravings and weight loss.

Heart Health:                                                                                                                                                 It’s surprising but Chia seeds have more omega-3 fatty acids than salmon! These healthy fatty acids are good for your heart as they help reduce inflammation and plaque formation and therefore lower blood pressure and bad cholesterol!

Diabetes:                                                                                                                                                      Chia seeds are a healthy source of sugar and carbs. Since they have a high fiber content chia seeds slow the release of carbohydrates and insulin into the bloodstream. So chia seeds are great for people who have diabetes to help regulate blood sugar.

Boosts your Energy:                                                                                                                                     Chia seeds were probably one of the world’s first energy drinks. Legend has it the Mayans and Aztecs would have a scoop of chia seeds before going into battle to provide them with energy and fuel. Chia seeds are also anti-inflammatory and help promote muscle recovery. They are great for us in modern times to incorporate into our pre or post workout regimens.

Chia seeds have head to toe benefits and contain nutrients and minerals like magnesium and calcium that build strong bones. They are easy to add to your diet and as they can be cooked or eaten raw and sprinkled on your favorite food. Why not try them and see what benefits they add to your diet.

…. health note … Chia seeds should not be given to small children. They should also not be given to people who have problems swallowing because when combined with water they expand 10 their size and form a thick gelatinous substance that can be hard to swallow.

Wishing you good health.

XO

Dr. V