Chia seeds are all the rage nowadays. People rave about how good they are for the body. Are chia seeds really nutritious? And what benefits can people get by including chia seeds in their diets?
What is Chia?
Chia is a type of desert plant that bears flowers and is closely related to the mint family. It’s also known as Salvia Hispanica. Chia is a native crop in Guatemala and in parts of Southern and Central Mexico. Chia is commonly cultivated as a food crop, and its seeds form the most nutritious part of the plant.
What’s inside chia seeds?
Chia seeds are dark, oval, edible seeds taken from the flowers of the Chia plant. These seeds are rich in plant oils. Chia seeds contain omega-3 fatty acids and alpha-linolenic acid. They’re also a haven of antioxidants, which explains why chia seeds can be stored for long periods of time without turning rancid. In addition, Chia seeds contain fiber and minerals like calcium, iron, zinc and niacin.
Health Benefits of Chia Seeds
Chia seeds pack powerful health benefits that make it among the most nutritious foods on earth. Here’s a roundup of these benefits:
- Cleanses the Body from Toxic Wastes
An ounce of chia seeds contains approximately 11-12 grams of fiber. Hence, including Chia seeds in the diet boosts fiber content in the body. This, in turn, helps cleanse the colon and flushes away the harmful toxins that could have accumulated in the body. When combined with exercise and a proper diet, chia seeds help in weight loss.
- Helps Boost Brain Development
Chia seeds contain alpha-linolenic acid, a type of fatty acid that can help improve brain development. However, humans have a hard time converting ALAs to DHA, the fatty acid form that the body uses. Hence, chia seeds help increase the amounts of essential fatty acids in the body, but people still have to take in other animal-based omega acids to reap its full benefits.
- Provides Antioxidant Protection
Chia seeds are a powerful antioxidant source. Antioxidants protect the body from harmful free radicals that damage cells and cause their deterioration. Antioxidants from Chia seeds protect cells and help boost cell regeneration.
- Improves Bone Health
Bones need both essential and trace minerals to remain in good condition — and chia seeds are an excellent source of these minerals. Calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, and magnesium are present in chia seeds and help keep bones healthy and strong. Chia seeds are great plant alternatives for people who do not consume dairy products.
Chia Seeds in a Nutshell
Many people have attested that chia seeds improved their health. These tiny seeds can actually help flush out bodily toxins, improve weight management, keep the brain sharp, maintain healthy bones, and provide cellular protection. Chia seeds are tagged as a “superfood,” so why not try them out now?
