In recent times, chia seeds are especially popular among supporters of a healthy lifestyle and proper nutrition. Why is this superfood so useful and with what health problems will it help to cope?
Chia seeds are nothing but seeds of Spanish sage. The health benefits of these seeds have been repeatedly proven by scientists. A spoonful of seeds contains only 60 calories, they have no sugar, but there is protein and fats, so they perfectly saturate, charge with energy, help not to overeat. What else is so useful these tiny grains?
Cardiovascular Health
Chia seeds contain the beneficial Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, which improve heart health and help normalize blood pressure. As you know, eating sea fish, which contains these beneficial polyunsaturated fatty acids, can reduce the risks of cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, thrombosis, as well as heart attack and stroke. And the content of these fatty acids in chia seeds many times exceeds their content in fish.
Weightloss remedy
Chia seeds – an excellent tool that helps to improve metabolism and lose weight. They contain soluble fiber, which is capable of absorbing 12 times more water, as a result of which excess cholesterol and toxins are removed from the body, metabolism is accelerated and hunger is muffled. These magical “seeds of life” in the stomach turn into a gel, which slows down the conversion of carbohydrates into glucose and as a result prevents the formation of fat.
Immunity strengthening
Chia seeds, due to their useful composition, strengthen the immune system, have a preventive effect against various colds. They are even called analog pharmacy antibiotics, and they also help heal wounds. In addition, it is a source of calcium, for example, two tablespoons of seeds contain 6 times more calcium than a glass of milk.
Constipation prevention
Chia seeds have a beneficial effect on the entire digestive system, and all this is due to the content of soluble and insoluble fibers. They normalize the bowels, improve peristalsis and help to cope with constipation.
Additional energy
Chia seeds have been known for a very long time, but they became “fashionable” only a few years ago. The Mayan and Aztec tribes used them as stimulants of energy and endurance. These properties of chia seeds have been preserved so far; scientists argue that they are as effective as energy drinks.
Picture Credit: ValeriaJa