7 Health Benefits of Chia Seeds

Chia seeds come from a desert plant and are also known as Salvia hispanica. Chia seeds have a long history of being a staple source for sustenance in earlier times due to them being a highly nutritive food with significant health benefits. Chia seeds might be tiny in size, but they are immensely rich in vital antioxidants, minerals and nutrients like Omega 3 fatty acids, calcium, iron, and so much more. Research suggests that these nutrient-dense super seeds can prove to be a great addition to a healthful, balanced diet and can also massively help in improving your general health and wellbeing. Their versatility in terms of health benefits, uses, and the fact that chia seeds are a nutritional powerhouse has prompted experts to term them as a super food.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF CHIA SEEDS

Loaded with antioxidants: Chia seeds are an excellent source of antioxidants which fight and neutralise the reactive molecules, also known as free radicals, produced in our body. Build up of these free radicals can damage cell compounds and contribute to ageing, cognitive decline and diseases like cancer. Chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, myricetin, quercetin, and kaempferol are some of the antioxidants present in chia seeds which have anti-cancer properties and can also protect our cells, heart and liver from these dangers. These antioxidants also help in speeding up skin repair systems, keeping you looking (and feeling) younger for longer.

Better bone health: Chia seeds contain nutrients like calcium, magnesium and phosphorus, which are extremely important for maintaining good bone mineral density. In fact, a single serving of these seeds accounts for 18% of your recommended daily calcium requirements, which is vital for healthy bone, nerve, and muscle functioning.

May lower risk of heart diseases: Research shows that chia seeds can help in improving your cardiovascular health. Since these seeds are high in fibre and antioxidants, which help to lower high blood pressure and bring cholesterol levels under control, in turn reducing the risk of you developing heart diseases. The fibres present in chia seeds can help you stay fuller for longer, feed your intestines with healthy bacteria, regulate the immune system, and decrease the risk of inflammation-related conditions.

Prevents spike in sugar levels: Due to their high fibre content, consuming chia seeds can help to reduce insulin resistance and stabilise your blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. According to a study, chia seeds have a positive effect on diabetic patients. 

Healthier weight management: Studies examining the effectiveness of chia seeds for weight loss have observed mixed results, but nonetheless, consuming a portion of chia seeds is definitely much healthier than consuming unhealthy snacks. Chia seeds alone cant help in losing weight, but since chia seeds are among the healthiest foods on the planet, they can be a highly useful addition to a balanced, nutritious diet if you are trying to lose weight.

Enhances digestive health: Chia seeds contain impressive amounts of fibre content which helps you to consume the required amount of nutrients in a single serving. The dietary fibre has a positive impact on your digestive system by encouraging prebiotics to grow in your gut and thereby improving your digestive health. 

Improves dental health: Chia seeds contain calcium, zinc, vitamin A and phosphorus which are great for your dental health. Calcium, vitamin A and phosphorus strengthen your teeth, zinc prevents plaque build-up and chia seeds antibacterial properties destroy germs responsible for bad breath.

Chia seeds are packed with various nutrients and have incredible health benefits. Moreover, you can easily incorporate them into your diet to reap their benefits.

FAQs

How to eat chia seeds?

Chia seeds can be eaten whole, milled, raw and soaked. They can be paired with various food items such as pudding, yoghurt, oatmeal, cereal, smoothies, salad dressing and so much more.

Can chia reduce belly fat?

Chia seeds alone cannot burn fat, but their high fibre content can boost your digestive health and metabolic rate which can help you to lose weight.

Are chia seeds good for skin?

Yes, chia seeds are high in antioxidants and nutrients that can do wonders for your skin, like boosting skin luminosity and elasticity, hydration, reducing inflammation and overall strengthening of your skin, hair and nails.

How many chia seeds should I eat a day?

The recommended serving size for adults is 15 grams (2 tablespoons) daily. For children and teens (ages 5 to 18 years) the recommended amount is 1.4 to 4.3 grams daily.

Where to buy chia seeds?

At our organic store in Bangalore, you can find a diverse range of organic, authentic and finest quality organic fruits and vegetables in Bangalore that will lead you towards a healthier lifestyle. You can buy chia seeds online at discounted price at Healthy Buddha.