Chia seeds are a nutritious food that is rich in a variety of nutrients and health-promoting compounds.
Here are six health benefits of chia seeds:
1.Rich in Nutrients: A staple in the ancient Aztec and Maya diets, Chia seeds have been touted for their health benefits for centuries. They are a great source of nutrients, including fiber, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and various micronutrients such as calcium, magnesium, and zinc.
2.Help in Weight Management: Chia seeds are a low-calorie food that contains a high amount of fiber which helps you feel fuller for longer periods of time. This may help to reduce the total number of calories consumed, leading to weight loss.
A study in 24 participants found that consuming 0.33 ounces (7 grams) or 0.5 ounces (14 grams) of chia seeds mixed with yogurt for breakfast increased feelings of fullness and reduced food intake in the short term compared with eating chia-free yogurt
3.Improve Digestive Health: Chia seeds are high in fiber, which helps to promote regularity and prevent constipation. The high fiber content also feeds beneficial bacteria in the gut, promoting digestive health.
4.Boost Heart Health: The omega-3 fatty acids found in chia seeds are associated with improved heart health by reducing inflammation and lowering triglycerides, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.
According to a few human studies chia seed supplements significantly lowered blood pressure in persons with hypertension, or high blood pressure, which is a significant risk factor for heart disease.
5.Help Control Blood Sugar: Chia seeds’ high fiber content can help control blood sugar levels, avoiding spikes and crashes. For people with type 2 diabetes, this might be especially helpful.
6.Provide Antioxidant Protection: Chia seeds are rich in antioxidants, which help protect against damage caused by free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. The specific antioxidants found in chia seeds are kaempferol, chlorogenic acid, myricetin, caffeic acid, and quercetin. These might all have anti-cancer capabilities in addition to having beneficial benefits on your heart & liver.
Chia seeds may boost your health, so think about including them in your diet if you want to benefit from them. They go well with smoothies, oatmeal, yoghurt, baked goods, and other foods.