Health Benefits of Chia Seeds– Chia seeds are emerging to become one of the best superfoods known to us. As a staple in Aztec and Mayan diets, chia seeds predominate with their health benefits. The versatility that these seeds have to offer make them a prime constituent in most recipes as they are a rich source of nutrients and antioxidants.
Today we bring to you some of the health benefits of chia seeds.
Top 10 Health Benefits of Chia Seeds
1. For the Digestive System
The ability of your body to balance insulin levels lies solely in the amount of fiber present in the body. Apparently, chia seeds are high in fiber, a single serving of it The high fiber content combined with its healthy fats makes it great for blood sugar regulating and healthy bowel system. an provide adequate fiber intake for an entire day. Its high fiber content, combined with its healthy fats makes it great for blood sugar regulation and healthy bowel system. You will also find yourself feeling fuller after a single serving. This is attributed to the fact that these seeds expand in your stomach by absorbing water.
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2. Loaded with Antioxidants
Antioxidants fend off free radicals that cause damage to the molecules and cells contributing to ageing and cancer. Chia seeds shine in particular in this case due to the fact that they are packed with antioxidants. They help to protect sensitive fats from going rancid. Also, it is believed that chia seeds have more antioxidants than blueberries, so one can imagine how nutritious these seeds really are.
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3. Best Form of Fiber
A single ounce of chia seeds has 12 grams of carbohydrate of which 11 grams are fiber. Fiber doesn’t raise blood sugar levels nor does it require insulin to be disposed off, hence it can’t be counted as a carb. For every ounce of chia seeds that you consume, 1 gram of it is carb. This is very low, making these seeds a low carb friendly food. The seeds can also absorb water 10 times their weight, thus keeping you feeling full longer.
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4. Rich Source of Protein
Chia seeds are a rich source of protein. When compared to other plants, they contain 14% protein by weight, which is quite high when compared to its counterparts. They are also very rich in amino acids which is why our bodies can capitalize on the protein content in them. Also, high protein intake reduces one’s appetite and cuts down the desire to snack at night by 50%. So if you are vegetarian by diet, then chia seeds are an excellent source of protein for you.
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5. As an Energy Booster
Another health benefit of chia seeds is that it enhances exercise performance. Consumption of these seeds before a workout allows you to stay energized for 90 minutes longer than that of sugar laden sports drinks. You can boost your overall metabolism with this unique superfood and burn belly fat in the process too. Chia seeds are also ideal to combat obesity as they target the visceral adipose tissue which affects the metabolism of the body.
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6. Helps Fight Ageing
Yet another health benefit of chia seeds is that it helps fight ageing. This is due to the presence of natural phenolic concentration in them. They act as a natural source of antioxidants, which is what that makes them brilliant. They help to speed up the skin’s repair system and at the same time prevent further damage. Also premature skin ageing due to inflammation is inhibited with the consumption of chia seeds.
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7. Is a Source of Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Another benefit of chia seeds is that they contain more Omega-3 Fatty Acids than salmons do. The Omega-3’s present however are mostly Alpha Linolenic Acid, ALA which has to be converted into the active form before being used by the body. The active forms being EPA and DHA. These seeds can increase the levels of ALA and EPA in the blood. The fact of the matter remains that if you are vegan, then you can get your daily dose of Omega-3 from this superfood.
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8. Stronger Bones
Want stronger bones? You can find the ideal supplement in chia seeds. A single ounce has 18% of the recommended daily dosage of calcium. Calcium is important for overall bone health and maintaining bone strength and mass. Chia also contains boron, essentially a compound that helps to metabolize calcium, manganese, phosphorus and magnesium. Instead of opting for supplements to provide you with calcium, you can opt for this superfood. This way, you can extract all the health benefits of chia seeds.
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9. Builds Muscle
If you are trying to build muscle, then we have news for you. Chia seeds help to burn fat and balance blood sugar levels in your body. The antioxidant dosage present in Chia replaces some of the nutrients lost when exercising. This is because they are rich in minerals such as phosphorus, magnesium, manganese, iron, niacin, zinc and copper. They also help to prolong hydration which improves the nutrient absorption of electrolytes. This helps to slow down digestion, keeping you full for a longer period of time.
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10. Fights Cancer
ALA or alpha linolenic acid is an Omega-3 fatty acid. ALA helps to limit the growth of cancer cells, this includes both cervical and breast cancer as well. Also, it helps to kill cancer cells without harming normal, healthy cells. Here is where you can capitalize on a health benefit of chia seeds as they are rich in ALA. If prevention really is better than cure, then chia seeds are the way to go.
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Chia seed benefits are greater than we are aware of. From promoting healthy skin to supporting the heart and digestive system, the spectrum of benefits is wide. Start today and see how you can make the most of these seeds.
