Fad foods come and go, but Chia seeds are here to stay. Their growth in popularity this year is definitely warranted due to its high amounts of fiber, protein, omega 3 fatty acids, and minerals like calcium, manganese, and phosphorus. Chia seeds are an ancient seed whose health benefits exceed beyond flax seed’s. They do not have to be ground like flaxseeds, nor do they go rancid. Two tablespoon of this super food provides 8.5 grams of fiber, 4 grams of protein, and 4.2 grams of omega 3 fatty acids. The fiber helps lower cholesterol, lower risk for colon cancer, and aids in weight loss by keeping you feeling full longer, and preventing over eating.
Protein packed foods have also been shown to help with weight loss efforts due to their high satiety effect. The omega 3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties that counter the inflammatory effect of the American diet and aid in preventing a variety of chronic diseases. Many packaged foods containing chia seeds have hit the market in response to the high demand, but the best way to get chia is to buy it in its raw form and incorporate it into your diet by adding it to juice, yogurt, soups, sauces, muesli, or oatmeal. Aim for one to two tablespoons per day. You should also drink lots of water, which is important when adding fiber rich foods into your diet.
Danielle Hamo
www.thenutritionvault.com/
