Once a niche ingredient, chia seeds have grown to become a highly popular superfood. While till just a few years ago, chia seeds were only available in select health stores, you can now find them across supermarkets. But what made these little dot-like seeds into one of the most popular ingredients across cereals, yogurt, salads and more? Scientifically known as Salvia hispanica and belonging to the mint family, chia seeds are primarily grown in Mexico but are widely cultivated in parts of Guatemala, Argentina, Bolivia, Nicaragua, Australia and Ecuador. These oval-shaped small seeds come in brown, black and white and are packed with some of the most essential nutrients you’ll know!
Besides antioxidants, chia seeds are brimming with good quantity of iron, calcium, thiamin, manganese, magnesium, zinc, phosphorous, B vitamins, folate and riboflavin.
Here Are 5 Of The Best Reasons To Load Up On Chia Seeds:
1. Weight Loss
Just a handful of chia seeds are enriched with fibre, which doesn’t just provide energy but also keep you full, so you steer clear of unnecessary hunger pangs ang bingeing. It ultimately leads to healthy weight loss! You can mix it up in a smoothie or make a trail mix along with other nuts and dry fruits to munch on when hunger strikes!
2. Aids Digestion
Another benefit due to the presence of fibre in chia seeds is easy digestion! As per research, every 100 gram of these tiny seeds will give you about 40g of dietary fibre, which is a great agent for digestion and helps keep bowel-related woes away.
3. Maintain Blood Sugar
Chia seeds are rich in omega 3 fatty acids that have been said to be important in diabetes management. Moreover, some of the most recent studies have also linked chia seed consumption with healthy blood sugar levels.
4. Lowers Cholesterol
This also related to the presence of omega 3 fatty acids which helps lower blood cholesterol while preventing coronary heart diseases in the process. In addition, they reduce the risk of irregular heartbeat, and lowers blood pressure.
5. Improves Sleep
Chia seeds are high in tryptophan which produces - serotonin and melatonin; two hormones that are essential for sleep. Consumption of chia seeds boosts good sleep and relaxation.