Health Benefits of Chia Seeds | Ancient Aztec SuperFood
Chia seeds are native to South America and have been a staple in Mayan and Aztec diets for centuries. Dating back to ancient Aztec warriors and used today by endurance athletes and health enthusiasts alike, just a spoonful a day is an easy and delicious way to support your digestive health and satiate your appetite
Organic Chia Seed are a whole, vegetarian superfood naturally rich in Omega-3 essential fatty acids, dietary fiber, antioxidants, protein and amino acids. Revered as a natural appetite suppressant and offering a comprehensive range of nutrients, vitamins and minerals.
Today, Chia seed is well known as rich source of nutrients and antioxidants.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Chia seeds are rich in especially omega-3 fatty acids, polyunsaturated fats. Chia seeds’ lipid profile is composed of 60 percent omega-3s. One of the richest plant-based sources of these fatty acids specifically, of alpha-linolenic acid, or ALA.
The omega-3s in chia seeds can help enhance cognitive performance, reduce inflammation and reduce high cholesterol.
Fiber
Fiber is associated with reducing inflammation, lowering cholesterol and regulating bowel function. Chia seeds are considered as an excellent source of fiber, with a whopping 10 grams in only 2 tablespoons.
Antioxidants
Chia seeds are rich in antioxidants that help protect the body from aging, free radicals and cancer. The high antioxidant profile also helps them have a long shelf life. They last almost two years without refrigeration.
Minerals
Two tablespoons of chia seeds contain 18 percent of the DRI for calcium, 35 percent for phosphorus, 24 percent for magnesium and about 50 percent for manganese. These nutrients help you prevent hypertension and maintain a healthy weight, and are important for energy metabolism and a part of DNA synthesis.
Satiety
Satiety is the feeling of being full and satisfied, which helps lower food cravings between meals. The combination of protein, fiber and the gelling action of chia seeds when mixed with liquids all contribute to their satiating effects.
Gluten-Free
Chia seeds contain no gluten or grains. Therefore, all of the nutritional benefits of chia seeds can be obtained on a gluten-free diet.
Egg Replacer
The outer layer of chia seeds swells when mixed with liquids to form a gel. This can used in place of eggs to lower cholesterol and increase the nutrient content of foods and baked goods. To make the egg replacement, mix 1 tablespoon of chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water and let sit for 15 minutes.
Can Be Digested Whole
Unlike flaxseeds, which are also high in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber and minerals, chia seeds do not need to be ground in order to obtain their nutrient or egg- replacement benefits.
Dyslipidemia
A study published in the “British Journal of Nutrition” showed that chia seeds as a dietary fat source can lower triglycerides and cholesterol levels while increasing HDL or “good” cholesterol. The study also found that when substituting chia seeds for other fat sources, such as corn oil, the ALA was able to prevent high triglyceride levels and reduce central obesity.
Blood Sugar Regulation
Chia seeds can play an important role in regulating insulin levels. They can reduce insulin resistance and decrease abnormally high levels of insulin in the blood.
Suggested Use
1 tablespoon daily. Mixes easily in water or juice. Excellent when used as a topping for yogurt, salads, breakfast cereals and used in blended smoothie beverages.
One of the customer suggested to have it with coconut water to get best benefit out of it.
Some Recipes of using Chia Seed
http://www.sparkpeople.com/blog/blog.asp?post=9_ways_to_use_chia_seeds
http://wellnessmama.com/4981/10-uses-for-chia-seeds/
How to buy Chia Seeds in India
Now one can easily get premium quality organic chia seeds in India, with us. Get Barlean’s Organic Chia Seeds in India, that is considered as one of the finest quality from Barlean’s Organic Oils, USA.
We strive to maintain the quality product available in stock with us. For more details, you may reach us at [email protected] or call us at +91-11-47566727, +91-9958599911
Click on the following link to place an order online with us – Buy Chia Seed in India
External References
http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/top-10-health-benefits-chia-seeds-6962.html
http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/super-seed-the-case-for-chia.html