7 Impressive Health Benefits of Chia Seeds
You haven't adopted chia seeds yet? These small seeds that look like poppy seeds have truly become a trend food in recent years.
They can be easily called a "super-food" as their virtues are numerous. Ready to learn why you should start using them everywhere in your kitchen? Here are 7 good reasons to add them to your menu.
1. It is a health asset for the heart
With their concentration of omega-3, magnesium and potassium, chia seeds are an excellent weapon for the protection of your heart. They will allow you to fight against cardiovascular diseases, in particular, by playing a beneficial role on your blood pressure and on your cholesterol level.
2. It is a source of "good fat"
If chia seeds contain many lipids (about 30%), they are also source of all that "fat" that allows us to be healthy. In addition to omega-3, they also contain very good omega-6 to fight cholesterol. This "fat" is also recommended for people who suffer from skin problems, improving their flexibility.
3. It is an excellent source of protein, vitamins and minerals
The chia seed is a complete food. Its consumption allows you to fill up with various nutrients essential to our good health, such as iron or vitamins (B, B2, B3). Chia seeds are also sources of protein (they contain more than 20%), making it an ideal food for vegetarians.
4. It is a great source of calcium
This tiny black seed contains more calcium than milk. 100 g of chia seeds contain 631 mg of calcium against 120 mg for the same capacity of whole milk. These seeds are, therefore, particularly recommended for people who suffer from osteoporosis. More generally, they strengthen the bones and teeth of everyone who consumes them.
5. It facilitates easy transit
Chia seeds are very rich in fiber (about 30%) and this content makes it an asset to regulate your transit. They are also fully indicated in case of diarrhea.
6. It is an effective blood glucose regulator
The chia seed is mucilaginous. In other words, when immersed in a liquid, it swells and forms a gel. It can absorb up to 25 times its size in water. This property makes it an excellent blood glucose regulator since this gel slows the digestion of carbohydrates, which avoids glycemic peaks after meals.
7. It helps lose weight… indirectly
It has long been said that chia seeds can make you lose weight. However, some studies have proven the opposite. Nevertheless, the gel that chia seeds form when ingested has an appetite suppressant effect that can help people who want to lose weight.