5 Proven Health Benefits of Chia Seeds

5 Proven Health Benefits of Chia Seeds

Chia is a small seed that is harvested from a plant called Salvia Hispanica. It is commonly added to health foods to boost the nutritional value. Chia has been around for centuries, and historic research has found that the Aztecs and Mayans used to use the seeds as a currency and offer it to their gods at ceremonies. It was used for wounds, colds, sore throats, upset stomachs, body odours, prostate problems, constipation and much more.

Loaded with Antioxidants

Chia seeds are loaded with antioxidants, the antioxidants are there to protect the sensitive fats in the seeds from going off and rotting the seed. The antioxidants found in the seeds can fight the production of free radicals, which can damage molecules in cells within your body. This in turn reduces ages and helps fight diseases like cancer!

High in Protein

The seeds contain a high level of protein, by weight each seed is about 14% protein which is a lot higher compared to most plants. The seed also contains a good balance of amino acids which help our bodies with the digestion of protein.

Having such a high level of protein allows people who are vegetarian or vegan to use this as a supplement for meat. Try mixing it in with your yogurt.

High in Healthy Omega 3 Fatty Acids

Chia seeds are also high in Omega 3 and contain more than salmon which is great as Omega 3 is mainly made up of Alpha Linolenic Acid (ALA) which is a lot more accessible through plant sources of Omega 3 compared to animal sources like fish.

If you are looking at purchasing plant based Omega 3 as a supplement we highly recommend Chia Bia’s Chia Oil Plant based Omega 3 because it is cold pressed and is 100% vegan. However if you don’t mind consuming fish oil, we recommend that due to the lack that DHA (important fatty acid that your brain needs) you consume fish oil.

Improved Bone Health

Chia seeds are high in several nutrients that are extremely important for bone health. They contain calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and protein which help develop your bones. In most cases Chia seeds contain more calcium and protein than many dairy products. If you cannot consume dairy we highly recommend implementing Chia seeds into your diet. 

High in Fiber

It is commonly believed that Chia Seeds can help weight loss, due to the high level of fiber. The fiver absorbs large amounts of water and expands in the stomach, which helps slow the absorption of food.

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