6 Benefits of Chia Seeds

6 Benefits of Chia Seeds

Despite their tiny size, chia seeds are among the most nutritious foods on the planet. They are loaded with fiber, protein, Omega-3 fatty acids and various micronutrients. Chia seeds are a “whole grain” food, are usually grown organically, are non-GMO and naturally free of gluten.

I am incredibly happy that I found these little “super” seeds and have incorporated them into my families diet. Here are just some reasons why!

1.  Powerful Antioxidant – Chia seeds have age defying anti-oxidants that help fight free radical production that cause damage to your cells and molecules.  This damage can cause aging and cancer.  Who wouldn’t want that?!

2.  Loaded with Fiber – Chia seeds assist in balancing blood sugar due to the gelling action of the seed.  It has the ability to slow down the body’s conversion of starches to sugar with its unique combination of insoluable and soluable fiber; therefore, gives you steady energy all day instead of the ups and downs that wear you out.

3.  Weight Loss – Chia seeds can absorb up to 10-12 times their weight in water because of their high fiber content, which causes them to become gel-like in your stomach.  This gel-like quality of chia seeds in your stomach will slow the rate of absorption and give you a fullness feeling; therefore allowing you to naturally ingest fewer calories. Secondly when it comes to weight loss, chia seeds will not trigger the release of insulin from your pancreas because they do not cause a spike in your blood sugars which will assist in weight loss and/or maintenance.

4.  A Complete Protein – Chia seeds are one of nature’s highest plant based sources of complete protein because they contain all the essential amino acids,  Meaning you don’t have to combine chia seeds with any other foods to get their full benefits.

5.  High in Omega 3s – Chia seeds add healthy Omega 3 oil to your diet.  By weight Chia seeds contain more Omega 3s then salmon.

6.  Easy to Incorporate into your Diet – Chia seeds have no flavour so they take on the flavour of whatever you put them in.  Great way to get the Omega 3s and protein into those picky eaters.  You can add them into your baking, to cereal, yogurt, smoothies, salads, or just eat them raw.