Chia Seeds The Superfood for All

How can these small little seeds be packed with so many nutrients and benefits? The many health eaters of today can gain an array of benefits as these ancient grains are a great source of fibre, prebiotics, and improve cholesterol levels. Learn why you should add these wonders to your everyday diet!

These edible seeds come from the flowering desert plant salvia hispanica. It's in the same family as the mint herb. These plants grow endemic to Mexico and were a staple in Mayan and Aztec cultures. The word "Chia" in Mayan actually means strength. It's quite appropriate for these tiny power-packed seeds that are full of nutrients.

Warriors and fighters of the ancient world depended on these seeds for added energy. But despite being a historical dietary staple, this superfood has only regained its popularity very recently.

Today's modern warriors can hone that same energy by adding these seeds to their daily food intake.

Consider how powerful this is. 28 grams serving of chia seeds contains:

·     Fibre: 11 grams.

·     Protein: 4 grams.

·     Fat: 9 grams (5 of which are omega-3s).

·     Calcium: 18% of the RDI.

·     Manganese: 30% of the RDI.

·     Magnesium: 30% of the RDI.

·     Phosphorus: 27% of the RDI.

·     On top of all that, these seeds contain zinc, potassium, vitamin B1 that enables glucose metabolism, vitamin B2 and vitamin B3.

It's quite impressive considering that 28 grams are only about two tablespoons. And if you're counting, that's only 137 calories!

What's more, these seeds are gluten-free, non-GMO. Chia seeds are whole-grain food that's usually grown organically.

What are the health benefits of Chia Seeds?

If you're wondering how all those nutrients can work in your body. These are some of it's biggest health benefits:

·     Chia seeds are high in antioxidants - Antioxidants is a wellness buzzword that gets all of us turning our heads. For good reason! Antioxidants slow down signs of ageing. Physically that looks like having healthier hair and younger-looking skin. Paired with a healthy lifestyle, antioxidants can help reduce the risk of cancer.

·     Chia seeds are fibre - we've seen the list above. These seeds are actually fibre and that good fact means: you'll be full for longer and it will keep your gut healthy.

·     Chia seeds are a rare source of Omega-3 fatty acids - not many foods supply omega-3. A shortlist includes fish, walnuts, and flax seeds. Over half of the fat in chia seeds consist of omega-3! These nutrients have benefits ranging from better sleep, better hormones and a better fight against heart disease.

·     Chia seeds have more calcium than most dairy products - period.

Add it on water, cook it with bread, top it on your smoothie or breakfast bowl. One other best reason for chia seeds to be in your daily diet is that it's so versatile. The taste is so mild you can add to anything!