Chia Seeds: Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits
Chia seeds are extremely nutritious. They are small and black in colour, making them easily identifiable. The seeds come in a dry form and are eaten after being submerged for a few hours in water. They are shiny brown or black in colour.
There are many uses for chia seeds. They can be consumed straight up with milk or water. You can incorporate the soaked chia seeds into cereal, fruit, or ice cream. Chia seeds are not only beneficial to one’s health but also incredibly tasty.
Chia seeds are wonderful reserves of a variety of nutrients. Omega-3 fatty acids and dietary fibre rank highest among all nutrients.
Nutritional Value of Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are super nutritious. The breakdown is given under
- Calories: 486
- Protein: 16.5 grams
- Water: 6%
- Carbs: 42.1 grams
- Fiber: 34.4 grams
- Sugar: zero grams
- Fat: 30.7 grams
- Trans: 0.14 grams
- Monounsaturated: 2.31 grams
- Polyunsaturated: 23.67 grams
- Omega-3: 17.83 grams
- Saturated: 3.33 grams
- Omega-6: 5.84 grams
Minerals in Chia Seeds
Following healthy minerals are present in Chia Seeds.
- Phosphorus
- Selenium
- Manganese
- Calcium
- Iron
- Copper
- Magnesium
Health Benefits of Chia Seeds
Antioxidants
Antioxidants are everywhere! Our immune systems and bodies use antioxidants to keep us healthy. Antioxidants are potent for strengthening the immune system and fighting illness. It prevents our bodies from oxidising and stops free radicals from causing problems like Alzheimer’s disease and cancer.
There are many different sources to receive antioxidants. However, chia seeds are a great source. Make a fruit smoothie by soaking your Chia seeds in water and blending them with various of your favourite fruits!
High Levels of Omega-3
Chia seeds provide much Omega-3. Omega-3 has multiple benefits for human health, especially brain and heart health. However, before your body can use ALA, it must be converted into active forms, like EPA. Chia seeds have been shown to increase blood levels of ALA by up to 138% and EPA by up to 39% in both humans and animals. Improved control of blood sugars Healthy blood sugar levels is essential to optimal health. The studies on animals showed that chia seeds regulate sugar content in the body. This means they are super beneficial for people with diabetes and tend to reduce the risk of diabetes. The studies on humans showed the same results.
Regulated Blood Pressure Level
High blood pressure is the major source of a variety of heart diseases. Chia seeds are perfect for regulating blood pressure because of their high levels of Omega-3 and healthy fats.
Loss of Weight
Let’s talk about losing weight. It’s a sensitive subject, and few people want to talk openly about their strategies for starting a weight loss program. Many people try to find the “magic pill” to help them lose weight, but there will never be a quick fix. It takes time and effort to lose weight before a person begins to notice a difference.
Because they contain a lot of fibre, chia seeds can help people lose weight. The less likely you are to snack throughout the day in between meals if you include more fibre in your diet. Fibre makes you feel fuller for longer!
Anti-Inflammatory
Inflammation occurs when our immune system responds to an internal signal that a wound or illness could bring on. Our bodies naturally engage in and carry out this defence mechanism. However, if inflammation persists and lasts for an extended period, it can be harmful. Certain diseases, such as diabetes, obesity, and heart disease, can be brought on by inflammation.
The anti-inflammatory properties of chia seeds are extremely potent. If you’re in the market searching for a characteristic method for diminishing irritation, Chia seeds might be the best approach. You can easily incorporate them into your daily diet!
High Fiber Intake
The majority of people don’t eat enough fibre.
A diet high in fibre has been shown to improve gut health and lower the risk of many diseases. Chia seeds contain 9.75 grams of fibre, 25% and 39% of the recommended daily intake for men and women, respectively, in a single ounce (28 grams).
Chia seeds have a remarkable capacity for absorbing water. As a result, they make foods larger in your digestive tract, which makes you feel fuller and makes you eat less.
Healthy Heart
Maintaining a healthy heart requires constant attention to its health. Your step’s rhythm comes from your heart. If you’re a romantic, the feelings and moods of happiness and true love come from your heart. Your heart is responsible for maintaining blood circulation throughout your body.
You would not be able to survive without your heart. Unfortunately, heart disease is a condition that can affect your heart. Numerous factors, including lifestyle choices and obesity, high blood pressure, and cholesterol, could cause this. Chia seeds are an excellent source of fibre, which helps lower cholesterol and blood pressure.
Therefore, it is better to use natural and organic products to stay good and healthy.