Health Benefits of Chai Seeds

The name could be small but benefits of chia seeds are pretty big. These tiny seeds come in black, white and brown color and were supposed to be a staple diet of the Mayan and Aztec people.

For a long time the world was unaware of the existence of these seeds which were only found in the South American countries.

But ever since they first appeared on the international scene there has been no looking back.

The health benefits of chia seeds have been cited in many researches and it is increasingly becoming popular as a healthy inclusion in our diets.

Chia Seeds - The Next Vegetarian Super Food?

What makes these seeds all the more popular is the ease with which it can be incorporated into daily food.

If you are making a fruit smoothie all that you have to do is include a tablespoon of the chia seeds into the ingredients and give them a good mixing in the blender.

If you like to taste the crunch of the seeds you have all the liberty to simply sprinkle some seeds on top of the smoothie.

Chia seeds can be further added to salads, used as soup thickeners or added to gravies to give them a smooth texture.

So what are these benefits of chia seeds that we all want to know about?

• Protein Rich

Protein is an essential requirement for every body. It is not only so for a child but every single individual.

Having a protein rich diet is a good way of getting the required amount of protein into the body but often this is not enough.

Including chia seeds into daily dishes can help combat the shortfall of protein and achieve a healthy lifestyle.

One serving of chia seeds delivers close to ten percent of the daily value.

• Rich Source Of Omega 3

One of the richest sources of omega 3 fatty acids is oily fish. But what do you do if you are a vegetarian.

The answer lies in these tiny seeds which are blessed with immense amounts of proteins.

One serving of chia seeds gives you almost ten percent of your daily requirement.

• Excellent Source Of Fiber

Though tiny in size the fiber content of these seeds is much too high. One serving of 28 grams contains close to 11 grams of fiber.

While fiber is essential for a healthy digestive system ensuring a good bowel movement it also acts against inflammation and lowers cholesterol.

• Storehouse Of Minerals

Manganese, phosphorus and calcium – these are the benefits of chia seeds.

With these essential minerals packed in chia seeds one can be assured of healthy teeth and bones, will help your body use other essential nutrients, keep hypertension at bay and will help in proper synthesis of protein cells.

• Antioxidant

Being packed with antioxidants chia seeds help the body fight free radicals and protect against aging and cancer.

The antioxidant property gives them an elongated shelf life preventing them from going rancid.

One an average chia seeds can be stored for over a year without refrigeration.

• Gluten Free

Chia brings good news for the gluten intolerant. These seeds are absolutely gluten free.

Also those trying to go on a gluten free diet inclusion of chia in the daily diet will be one of the best options available.

• Weight Control

In the dry form these seeds are very small but they have the capacity to absorb a great deal of water.

When added to smoothies, juices, cereal bowls, salads they bring about a satiating feeling helping in weight control.

Benefits of chia seeds are multiple and the end result is a healthy mind and body. It is easy to add these seeds to the diet without compromising on the taste.