Why You Should Start Eating Chia Seeds
“Chia seeds contain essential fatty acids, sulphur, iron, iodine, vitamin A, B, E and D, magnesium, manganese, niacin and are rich in antioxidant properties”
Chia seeds also called sweet basil seeds were once called ‘runner’s food,’ since these were used as a source of fuel for long distance running and in battles. Originally grown in Mexico, these seeds are small in size, are non-GMO, non-irradiated, highly valued for their medicinal properties and fully packed with many nutrients. Chia seeds were once used as currency toot They contain essential fatty acids, sulphur, iron, iodine, vitamin A, B, E and D, magnesium, manganese, niacin and are rich in antioxidant properties.
Learn more on Chia Seeds benefits and side effects
Types Of Chia Seeds Ground/Milled Chia Seeds (Black)
These kind of chia seeds are available in ground and in milled form. Milled chia seeds can be a great addition to smoothies and can also be sneaked into kids food, However, you need to be careful about the quality of these seeds, so it is always wise to buy either whole seeds and grind them at home or buy a reputed chia seeds’ brand. Black chia seeds are high in antioxidants.
- White Chia Seeds
These are more expensive than black chia seeds and are not easily available. - Pre-Hydrated Chia Seeds
These seeds can be added to sports drinks for players who prefer less sugar and want to avoid synthetic ingredients, thus helping to prolong hydration, increased endurance and speedy muscle recovery.
Benefits Of Chia Seeds
- Prevents premature ageing due to rich amount of antioxidants
- High in fibre, therefore helps in balancing insulin levels and promotes bowel regularity.
- Regulates cholesterol levels and helps in maintaining blood pressure levels
- Boosts energy
- Rich in fibre thus help in preventing metabolic syndromes like diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia etc.
- Since it is high in fibre and antioxidants, chia seeds helps in losing weight especially, belly fat.
- Rich in omega 3 fatty acids that help prevent and fights against breast and cervical cancer
Possible Side Effects
Some may experience stomach discomfort problems like diarrhoea and bloating due to its high fibre content. Thus, it is recommended to have chia seeds in moderation with any food and drink plenty of water. One teaspoon for a person in a day (five grams/day) is the recommended amount to consume.
How To Eat Chia Seeds
Chia seeds have a nutty taste and can be added to any food to garnish it, thus adding a small portion of nutrition to the recipe. The best way for the body to absorb chia seeds is either by soaking the seeds or grinding them and incorporating them to different foods. So, mix one teaspoon of chia seeds in a glass of water and let it soak for at least 30 minutes to two hours before use.