Chia seeds and its health benefits
Chia seeds is in the recent time gaining global refrences as a wonderful gift of the nature packed with many loads of health values.
Chia seeds come from a flowering plant of the mint family (Salvia hispanica L), originally from Mexico and Guatemala. The Aztecs, and also the Mayans, knew their properties, being a very important food for those people who consumed it for centuries. It is considered a functional food or, in other words, it is a superfood.
Chia is a small seed, which varies from white to black (red seeds, which are immature or black seeds smaller than normal, should be discarded). Some 30 years ago, an American researcher and professor emeritus at the University of Arizona, Wayne Coates, studied that plant as an alternative crop for farmers in northern Argentina and is known as Mr. Chía.
Properties of chia seeds
Until now, there are not many clinical studies that prove the health effects of these seeds, but they are attributed numerous benefits: Contains calcium, manganese and phosphorus, is a great source of omega-3 heart-healthy fats.
Unlike flax seeds, which have to be ground to absorb their nutrients, the seeds can be consumed whole or ground and digested much better.
For its surprising properties, this food will become fashionable and you will see how food manufacturers are adding more and more as an ingredient to various products, and use it as an advertising claim.
It is considered a fairly safe food although, like many other foods, it could be allergic to some people.
How to eat chia seeds?
Although they can be eaten raw it is not advisable to eat them dry. The chia seeds can be absorbed up to 27 times its volume of water. They can be eaten raw but as they increase in size in the stomach, it is preferable to soak them in a glass of water or juice so that they absorb the liquid and soften. You can also grind and add the powder to shakes, breads or other preparations.
How much of chia seeds you can eat?
You can consume about 20 to 40 g per day maximum. Remember that excess of everything could be dangerous
Conservation
Unlike flax seeds that can not be stored for long, chia seeds have better conservation. They can be stored for up to two years without refrigeration.
Precautions
Due to its enormous capacity to absorb liquid, people who have swallowing problems, difficulty swallowing food, drinks or saliva, or esophageal stenosis, should consult their doctor before consuming chia seeds. In any case, never consume them dry, you can only consume the seeds once they have absorbed by soaking them in water or juice.
Health benefits of eating chia seeds
1. It helps you to shed weight.
If you are obese and thinking of what best to use to reduce your weight, chia seeds is the best option you can trust.
2. Chia oil is superb for treatment of the skin.
Its benefits have been proven in topical (external) use for the treatment of pruritus and dry skin. So, if you’re having skin problem, try get some chia oil and see how quick your recovery is going to take place.
3. Chia seeds help reduce the risk of hearts attacks
According to the Cleveland Clinic, chia seeds help improve blood pressure in diabetics, also increase healthy cholesterol levels and help reduce bad cholesterol or LDL and triglycerides.
4. It helps combat diabetes and regulate high blood pressure
5. Chia seeds is a good fiber source.
There are lots more benefits you derives from eating chia seeds that will ultimately helps you to lead a healthy lifestyle.
Never knew you can reduce weight with chia seeds.
Nice post, thanks for sharing.