Chia seeds’ high nutritional value and medicinal properties have made them incredibly popular in their origin country, Mexico. At one point they were even used as currency. Chia seeds are rich in vitamins and minerals, antioxidants, dietary fibre, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Chia seeds have recently become immensely popular among superfood enthusiasts; they’re easily added to recipes and are easily digested. Plus they offer all kinds of health benefits due to their powerhouse of nutrients.
Digestive Health
Chia contains almost 11 grams of fibre per ounce which would provide us with our recommended daily intake. Not only does fibre balance insulin levels, but it promotes bowel regularity and healthy stools for efficient digestive function.
Weight Loss
Eating chia seeds help people feel fuller faster; when they reach the stomach, they absorb a lot of water and expand. This explains why eating them regularly helps people to curb hunger and suppress appetite which leads to weight loss. Chia is also rich in protein making them great for building lean muscle.
Skin
They are one of nature’s most densest antioxidant foods. This means chia seeds have the ability to prevent premature aging from free radical damage and inflammation. Antioxidants also speed up the repair system of the skin which reduces the risk of damage-induced aging.
Heart Health
Consuming chia seeds is particularly beneficial to heart health because they regulate cholesterol, reverse inflammation, and lower blood pressure. Also, chia reverses oxidative stress which could reduce the risk of certain heart related diseases and illnesses such as angina, coronary heart disease, and stroke.
Boost Metabolism and Energy
By consuming chia on a regular basis, you can boost your metabolism and reduce a type of belly fat called visceral adipose which can help combat obesity. Also, chia seeds provide the body with energy which enhances exercise performance the same way a sports drink would but without all the added sugar.
Promotes Bone Health
Chia’s high calcium content is about 18 percent of our recommended daily intake. Calcium is vital for bone health as it helps maintain mass and strength. It also contains boron which is another nutrient great for healthy bones.
