Ch Ch Ch Chia! Do you remember Chia Pets? Those tacky fluffy animals? Little did we know back in the day, that those little seeds were undercover super foods waiting to be discovered!
Now we know. Chia seeds are making a comeback. This time they can be found in health food stores and on websites galore for about $1 per ounce. They really are “super” food.
In the Aztec and Mayan cultures, Chia was used as a high-energy endurance food. It was great nourishment used before battle and long distance marches.
Top 10 Reasons to Eat Chia Seeds
1) Provides long lasting energy: Chia seeds form a gel when mixed with liquid because of the soluble fiber that coats the seed. Researchers believe that this gel-forming action also takes place in the stomach, helping to slow the conversion of carbs to sugar. This gives your body a steady stream of energy instead of a quick spike and crash.
2) Soothing to the colon: The swelling action of chia seeds helps to clean and sooth the colon. It absorbs toxins while lubricating and strengthening peristaltic action.
3) A complete protein: Chia seeds are a source of complete protein containing all 9 essential amino acids.
4) Rich in omega 3s: Chia seeds are the richest vegetable source of omega 3 fatty acids. They have the perfect balance of omega 3 to omega 6.
5) Rich source of calcium: Chia seeds are rich in calcium. They also have magnesium and boron, which aid in the absorption of calcium.
6) High in age-defying antioxidants: That means they fight free radicals. It also gives them a long shelf life (over 2 years). This shelf stability is not found in flax seeds or sesame seeds.
7) Helps curb your nighttime snack attack: Eaten as a pudding after dinner, chia can help us from getting hungry late at night.
8) Weight loss aid: Chia seeds prevent the absorption of some of the food and calories that we eat, they keep you full for hours.
9) Cuts Cravings: Being deficient in minerals can create a craving for foods. For example if you’re low on calcium you may feel compelled to eat lots of cheese and ice cream. You can add calcium to your food by sprinkling on the chia! By balancing your minerals with chia, you can curb cravings that might tempt you.
10) Reduces inflammation: High levels of essential fatty acids in chia have anti-inflammatory properties on the body. By aiding in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and reducing C-reactive protein, an inflammation marker. Omega-3s reduce joint stiffness and pain. Studies have shown that reduced inflammation lowers the risk for heart disease, arthritis and certain types of cancer.
Check out the recipe for Chia Seed Pudding.
