Every so often, a new health craze comes along. You’re a person who wants to stay healthy. But sometimes, it can be hard to know what’s a good food to embrace into your diet, and what’s a gimmick. Well, chia seeds are the real deal, and we’re here to give you ten of the amazing health benefits they have.
1. Filled With Amino Acids
Chia seeds are what’s known as a “complete protein.” That means they contain all of the nine amino acids that the body cannot produce on its own. This is so important because if the body doesn’t get enough of these amino acids, it will break down the proteins of the body to replenish its supply. This includes your muscles! And, unlike fat, your body doesn’t store amino acids, so you need to be getting them every day. (1, 2)
2. Chia Seeds Are High In Fiber
A single tablespoon (15 ml) of chia seeds will give you 19% of your recommended daily fiber goals. In fact, chia seeds contain insoluble fiber, which means they bulk up when they react with water. This can help you feel more full after you eat them. (3)
3. May Fight Bad Cholesterol
That insoluble fiber we talked about? Not only does it work as an appetite suppressant, but it also has the potential to lower your LDL (or “bad”) cholesterol. If you’re diabetic, eating chia seeds may be able to stop your blood sugar from spiking after you eat. (1)
4. Chia Seeds Make For Strong Bones
A serving of chia seeds is two tablespoons. Those two small tablespoons have 136 mg of calcium, which is just around 20% of your daily recommended calcium intake if you’re a woman under 50. (4)
5. Loaded With Antioxidants
Chia seeds have tons of good things in them–including beta carotene, manganese, selenium, and Vitamin C. These are all great antioxidants, which help your body battle cellular damage. (4)
6. Chia Seeds Are Rich In Omega-3
Omega-3 is a heart-healthy food, and chia seeds have a lot of it. In fact, they have more omega-3 protein than other oils, making them very good for your cardiovascular system. In fact, multiple studies have been done showing that those who eat a lot of omega-3 rich foods have better heart health and lower chances of dying from heart ailments. (1, 3)
7. Aid Proper Digestion
The gel that occurs from chia seeds interacting with water affects your stool–in a positive way. Chia seeds prevent constipation and keep your waste production on a regular cycle. (3)
8. Chia Seeds Are A Great Vegan Substitute
The water insolubility of chia seeds has come up more than once. Amazingly, it does so much! One of the uses for chia seeds is a thickening agent in different recipes. Often, things such as milk or eggs are used as thickeners, so chia seeds are a great vegan alternative. (5)
9. Full Of Protein
Two tablespoons of chia seeds have an incredible 4 grams of protein!
10. Chia Seeds Are Gluten-Free
If you’re looking for a source of gluten-free baking materials, chia seeds are the way to go! With their gentle taste, they can be added to all manner of baked goodies. (1, 5)
