Chia Seeds: A Natural Anti-Inflammatory and High Source Of Omega 3

Chia seeds, the new super food on the market, can offer all the nutrition you need. They are easy to incorporate into our diets because of their bland taste and can be consumed in any form you want.

So, what is it that makes them special?

History of Chia Seeds

Grown in Mexico initially, these seeds have a high nutritional value and various medicinal properties.

They can boost your energy significantly – in fact, Aztec warriors used to consume Chia seeds to increase their power – one spoonful of Chia could provide them energy for hours at an end.

Chia, in the Mayan language, also means “strength” which could be the reason why it is called, “runners food.”

Benefits of Chia seeds

chia seeds

Don’t worry if you’re feeling lazy; all you may need are some chia seeds in your diet. Chia seeds can benefit one in a number of ways.

1. Improves your skin and reduces signs of aging

Chia seeds prevent skin damage because of its free radicals which in turn helps reduce aging. The presence of antioxidants contributes to this. Studies in Mexico show that it contains twice the phenolic concentration than believed earlier and is a natural source of antioxidants that can stop up to 70% of free radical activity (1).

2. Has a high fiber content

Chia seeds also contain a lot of fiber, almost 11 grams per ounce. According to the American Dietetic Association, one serving of Chia seeds can provide recommended fiber intake for the whole day. These fibers help regulate the insulin levels in blood and also aids in proper bowel movement which automatically improves digestive health.

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3. Beneficial for the Heart

A study conducted with rats shows that Chia seeds are capable of lowering triglycerides and raising HDL. It can reverse inflammation and reduce blood pressure (2).

4. Can help in curing Diabetes

Research done at the University of Litoral in Argentina has proved that consumption of Chia seeds can actually help in regulating diabetes (3).

5. Provides calcium, proteins and other nutrients

Chia seeds are also rich in calcium which strengthens bones. Nutrients like magnesium, manganese, and boron are also present. Chia seeds have a protein content combined with essential amino acids which make them one of the top plant-based protein sources. Chia seeds help to replenish the nutrients lost during exercise and helps in body-building.

7. High content of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

chia seedsStudies have shown that the Omega 3 present in Chia seeds is mostly of the ALA (Alpha Linolenic Acid) kind, which needs to be converted into other forms before being used by the human body.

So, they are in no way a substitute for fish or DHA supplements such as cod liver oil, but there is no denying that they are useful in a diet.

Although Chia seeds have been introduced in relatively recent times to our diet, it is a ‘superfood’ that can meet a lot of our nutrition needs.

There are no major side-effects for you to worry about, and is the favorite for health-conscious people, for a good reason.