Chia seeds are tiny seeds thought to be native to Central America. Mayan and Aztec civilizations ate them and used them for medicinal, religious, and cosmetic purposes. Today, people everywhere enjoy chia seeds for their delicious nutty crunch and many health benefits.
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Chia Seeds Are Filled with Antioxidants
Many people like to find chia seeds in bulk because they are highly nutritious. Chia seeds contain many antioxidants. Antioxidants protect the fats in chia seeds from spoiling and benefit humans by neutralizing free radical molecules. Free radicals can damage cell compounds if they build up in the body and contribute to diseases like cancer.
Chia Seeds May Aid in Weight Loss
Because chia seeds contain both fiber and protein, they may help people trying to lose weight. Studies suggest that consuming more fiber may help prevent obesity and reduce the risk of becoming overweight. Eating protein can help reduce appetite and lead to weight loss. One study shows people who ate chia seeds in yogurt increased feelings of fullness and ate less than those who ate chia-free yogurt. Other studies have yielded mixed results. Adding chia seeds to a diet may not cause weight loss independently, but it may be an excellent addition to a balanced diet for someone trying to lose weight.
Chia Seeds May Lower the Risk of Heart Disease
Chia seeds are high in omega-3s and fiber, thus lowering the risk of heart disease. The soluble fiber found in chia seeds helps lower the total and LDL cholesterol in the blood. This reduces the risk of heart disease. Eating the omega-3 fatty acids in chia seeds has also been shown to decrease the risk of heart disease.
Chia Seeds Aid in the Development of Healthy Bones
Chia seeds contain calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. These nutrients are essential for bone health and mineral density.
Chia Seeds May Reduce Blood Sugar Level
People with diabetes often have high blood sugar levels. Consistent high blood sugar levels lead to an increased risk of heart disease. Because chia seeds have high fiber content, they may help with blood sugar regulation. Animal studies have shown that chia seeds may improve insulin sensitivity. This helps stabilize blood sugar levels after eating. Research on people is sparse but continues.
Chia Seeds in Cooking
Chia seeds are delicious and easy to incorporate into a diet. Some say they have a bland flavor and can go in almost anything. You don’t need to cook, grind, or prepare them in any way. People eat them raw, soaked in juice, or added to pudding, oatmeal, and smoothies. Many enjoy sprinkling them on top of vegetables, yogurt, or cereal.
The seeds also act as a binding agent. They absorb water and fat, thus thickening sauces. When mixed with water, they turn into a gel. People not used to eating a lot of fiber may experience bloating or diarrhea if they eat too many seeds at once. Normal portion size is 0.7 ounces at a time. Always drink water with chia seeds to prevent any digestive side effects.
Chia seeds are rich in minerals, antioxidants, fiber, and omega-3 fats, making them an exceptionally healthy addition to many foods. They can be purchased at many local grocery stores or even online in bulk to always have handy.
