12 Health Benefits of Chia Seeds That Will Shock You

by Jenna Crawford June 03, 2017

Chia seeds are one of the world’s oldest source of nutrition. They are small, but they are full of health benefits that the Aztecs and Mayans have been eating as early as 3500BC and it has also been used for medicinal purposes. Today, they are widely available around the world and a great addition your diet because they are so rich in nutrients and so easy to use. Here are just a few ways that you can incorporate chia seeds into your daily diet. You can eat them raw, soak it in juice, add it to porridge, puddings, baked goods and so much more!

Chia seeds have an incredible ability to absorb water and fat, so they can be used to thicken sauces or be added as a vegan egg substitute. They are a rich source of protein, healthy fats and dietary fiber, minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants. It also promotes weight loss and reduces the risk of chronic diseases. It is a very nutritious seed you can add to almost any recipe.

Here are the 12 health benefits of chia seeds that will shock you:

1. Rich Source of Healthy Fats and Nutrients

Chia seeds are a quick and easy-to-use source of protein, healthy fats, dietary fiber, minerals, vitamins and antioxidants. They are also one of the best sources of omega-3 fat ALA that is essential for the body. It also contains some additional phytochemicals that each have unique benefits.

2. Rich In Antioxidants

They are high in antioxidants that are always great for fighting against potential diseases and illnesses in the body. It helps prevent the healthy fats from going rancid in the seeds.

3. They Contain Fiber Carbs

If you look at the nutritional profile of chia seeds, you’ll find that an ounce of chia seeds contain 12 grams of carbohydrate and 11 of those are fibers. The fiber it contains does not raise blood sugar or require insulin to be disposed of. Chia seeds are considered a low-carb friendly food. If you consume chia seeds, it can help you feel satisfied and it also feeds the friendly bacteria in the tummy.

4. Excellent Source of High-Quality Protein

Chia seeds contain 14% of protein compared to other plants. They also provide an excellent balance of essential amino acids that helps the body to absorb the protein present in chia seeds. The protein found in the seed is weight-loss friendly. It reduces the appetite and helps reduce obsessive thoughts about food. It is also an excellent protein source for vegans and vegetarians.

5. Helps Lose Weight

The fiber present in chia seeds absorb significant amounts of water and expands in the stomach that helps increase fullness and slow the absorption of food. The protein helps reduce appetite and food intake. With exercise and proper food intake, chia can help a person to lose weight.

6. High in Omega-3 Fatty Acid

Like flax seeds, chia seeds are very high in Omega-3 fatty acids. They contain more omega-3 compared to salmon. Chia seed increases blood levels of ALA and EPA that are essential for the body.

7. Lowers The Risk Of Heart Disease And Type 2 Diabetes

Chia seeds help improve metabolic health. They are low in LDL cholesterol or bad cholesterol and triglycerides, and they increase HDL cholesterol and reduce inflammation, insulin resistance, and belly fats.

8. Contains Important Bone Nutrients

Chia seeds contain calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and protein that benefits the bones. They are considered an excellent source of calcium for those who don’t consume dairy products.

9. Contains Massive Amounts Of Nutrients And Low In Calories

Chia seeds are prized food for the Aztecs and Mayans because they provide sustainable energy. In fact, "chia" means strength in the ancient Mayan language. Today, chia is considered a superfood and it is consumed by some of the most health-conscious people all over the world.

10. Natural Beauty Foods

Chia seeds contain a blend of nutrients such as healthy fats, protein, and minerals including zinc that help promote healthy skin, hair and nail.

11. Reduces Risk of Colon Cancer

Chia seeds contain 36% fiber and a perfect balance of 80% insoluble versus 20% soluble fiber. The seeds help to lower cholesterol, improves intestinal health and regularity and can reduce the risk of colon cancer.

12. Helps Protect The Heart

A tablespoon of chia seeds can provide the complete daily requirement of Omega3 ALA that is essential for a healthy heart. Plant based omega 3 is essential for the heart as it lowers cholesterol and maintains proper artery function. Omega 3 ALA is vital in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Conclusion

Size is not the basis to measure the efficiency and health benefits of food. Chia seeds are small, but they give essential nutrients that are needed by the body. In this post, we shared with you the 12 health benefits of chia seeds that will shock you.