Chia is an edible seed, grown in Mexico from a desert plant called Salvia Hispanica. Chia seeds are concentrated foods containing carbohydrates, fiber, protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
They are natural, whole-grain food, which can be absorbed in the body. The soft, nutty flavor of chia makes it easy to add to beverages and foods.
It is mostly added in sauces, cereal, dishes, rice, vegetables and yogurt.
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Chia Seeds Weight Loss
Here are top 10 benefits of eating chia seeds.
1. High in fiber
Chia seeds are high in fiber. Consuming the right amount of dietary fiber will help you control your blood sugar levels and reduce constipation risk, heart disease, obesity, and high cholesterol.
Besides, high fiber foods make you feel full for long.
2. Increases Omega-fats
These tiny seeds are also good sources of omega-3 fatty acids which are important for your brain and heart. They keep them healthy and strong.
The consumption of these seeds bring alpha-linolenic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid, which are omega-3 fatty acids.
Omega-3 fatty acids have also proven to reduce risk of chronic diseases like cancer, arthritis, and heart diseases.
3. Help lose weight naturally
The chia seeds digest very slowly and therefore, they make you feel full for long.
Once you consume chia seeds, a gel forms around every seed. This gel slows down the digestion of the seeds.
The slow digestion allows blood sugar level to lower.
The high level protein and fats also slows down the absorption of chia seeds. This tends to make you feel full for long hence losing weight in a natural way.
4. High in nutrition
Chia seeds is also a whole source of protein, minerals, omega fats, vitamins B, antioxidants, and calcium.
Due to the amount of calories chia seeds contains, it’s a very nutritious resource for energy.
When consumed religiously, it will help you manage your weight more effectively.
5. Makes you feel more energetic
The high dietary value of this food and its ability to discharge its energy providing nutrients gradually means that you will feel energetic longer.
During this time you should increase your activity level by exercising, walking, and jogging in order to burn calories.
6. Contain niacin, thiamine and selenium
Every 2-spoonful of chia seeds gives 12% of the DV for thiamine and niacin.
These vitamins are very important in turning food into energy and keeping your nervous system and brain healthy.
Selenium acts as an antioxidant that minimizes the risk of your body cells being destroyed by free radicals. Besides, it enables your body to absorb Vitamin E.
7. Source of manganese and magnesium
Manganese metabolizes carbohydrates, regenerating red blood cells, and strengthening bones while magnesium strengthens your muscle and nerve system.
Also, manganese helps your body use other nutrients such as thiamin and biotin.
8. Fight belly fat and increases iron intake
Chia seed’s stabilizing effect on blood sugar fight insulin resistance that can lead to increase in belly fat, which can be harmful to your overall health.
It also increases the intake of iron that forms red blood cells and transport oxygen throughout your body.
9. Contains calcium and copper
Calcium strengthens your bones and plays a big role in blood clotting, strengthening muscles and promoting nerve health.
Likewise, chia seeds also contains copper, essential in the formation of red blood cells, for added strengthening of your bones and keeping your nerves healthy.
10. Have an exceptional property of absorbing liquid
Chia seeds can absorb 9 to 12 times their own weight when added in any type of liquid. This implies that they can be used to thicken soups, gravies, and stews.
Soaked seeds can be used to substitute butter or eggs in baking which provides less calories.
Therefore, understanding the properties and benefits of chia seeds and consuming them properly on a daily basis can help you eat less, and consume a nutritionally balanced diet while increasing your energy.
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