5 Reasons Why You Should Eat Chia Seeds TODAY!

September 11, 2014September 17, 2015Homeopathic Remedies

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by Derek Lovell

Chia seeds are tiny black seeds that come from the plant, Salvia Hispanica. The seeds were an important food for the Aztecs and Mayans way back in the day as they were able to provide them with sustainable energy.

Despite their ancient history as a dietary staple, only recently did chia seeds make a comeback as a modern day superfood. In the past few years, they have exploded in popularity and are now consumed by health conscious people all over the world.

Before we get into the benefits that the seeds hold, let’s look at their nutritional profile.

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A one ounce (approximately 2 tablespoons) serving of chia seeds contains:

11 grams Fiber
4 grams Protein
5 grams Omega-3
18% of your daily Calcium
30% of your daily Manganese
30% of your Magnesium
27% of your daily Phosphorus

1. They’re Loaded With Antioxidants

Another area where chia seeds shine is in their high amount of antioxidants. Although antioxidant supplements are not very effective, getting antioxidants from whole foods can have positive effects on your health. Most importantly, antioxidants fight the production of free radicals, which can damage molecules in cells and contribute to aging and various diseases.

2. Combat Diabetes

Due to their ability to slow down digestion, chia seeds are being studied as a potential natural treatment for type 2 diabetes. The jelly-like coating that the seeds develop when exposed to liquids can also prevent sugar spikes in the blood.

3. Stronger Teeth And Bones

A serving of chia seeds has 18 percent of the recommended daily intake for calcium, which puts you well on your way to maintaining bone and oral health, and preventing osteoporosis.

4. They’re high in fiber

So…they’re going to keep you regular! They’re about 20% soluble fiber and the beauty of soluble fiber is that it promotes a healthy digestive system by feeding the good microbes in your stomach.

5. Chia Seeds Are High in Quality Protein

By weight, they are about 14% protein, which is very high compared to most plants. They also contain a good balance of essential amino acids, so our bodies are able to make proper use of the protein in them. Protein has all sorts of benefits for health including being the most weight loss friendly nutrient in the diet. A high protein intake reduces appetite and has been shown to reduce obsessive thoughts about food by 60%. Chia seeds really are an excellent protein source, especially for people who eat little or no animal products.

How Can I Eat Them?

Unlike some other superfoods or healthy staples that should be in your diet, Chia Seeds actually taste delicious! I use them for overnight Chia Seed Pudding, Chia Seed Energy Drinks, Dressings, Dessert Pops or in Smoothies. Check out the links to try any of these amazing recipes using Chia Seeds.

References:

Derek offers conscious coaching and assistance to those in search of attaining their highest potential in life by helping his clients to navigate and understand the life challenges that present themselves. Check out his blog on authentic living, DerekLovellCoaching.com. This post first appeared at Collective Evolution.