4 Benefits of Adding Chia Seeds to Your Diet
We all want to be as healthy as possible. If you’re trying to lose weight, there are things you can do. If you want to remain that way, I’m sure you know that also. We know about eating your vegetables, drinking water, eating fruit, and staying away from sugar growing up. As we have gotten older, we have found other things or ways to help with our help. With more technology and studies, we have found other ways to help with our health. One of those things is chia seeds. Chia seeds come from a flowering plant native to Mexico and Guatemala called Salvia hispanica. Chia seeds are loaded with nutrition and some even call them a superfood. One ounce of chia seeds can help contribute toward your daily value of fiber, protein, minerals, and B vitamins.
When you eat chia seeds, you also get a sizeable dose of healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s are essential for brain and eye health, immunity and even heart health. I’ve always put chia seeds in my water when I’m taking it to work. You can also add them to your smoothies, yogurt or even your oatmeal. You can also add them to your muffins and your meats if you can handle the texture. Either way, there are many benefits in eating chia seeds. Below are 4 benefits of adding chia seeds to your diet.
Helps with Digestive Function
Chia seeds can boost vitamin and mineral absorption in the gut. They also help in promoting good gut bacteria. The fiber you consume with chia seeds can also help relieve constipation. Consuming too many seeds can lead to digestive problems though.
Great for Weight Loss
The fiber and protein in chia seeds may benefit those trying to lose weight. Drinking a glass of chia water (chia seeds mixed with water) may help you eat less. Chia seeds expand when they get wet and take up room in your stomach. You may feel less hungry, which can lead to weight loss.
Aids in Preventing Chronic Diseases
Research suggests that chia seeds may help prevent chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, obesity and maybe even cancer. They can help decrease inflammation, improve blood sugar levels, and lower blood pressure.
Loaded With Antioxidants
They are an excellent source of antioxidants. Antioxidants not only protect the sensitive fats in chia seeds from going rancid. They also benefit human health by neutralizing reactive molecules known as free radicals. The specific antioxidants in chia seeds include chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, myricetin, quercetin, and kaempferol. These may all have protective effects on your heart and liver, as well as anticancer properties.
