The Health Benefits of Eating Chia Seeds

出典: くみこみックス

The chia seeds, or to give them their proper name, Salvia hispanica, is a plant which is found in abundance in Mexico and belongs to the mint family. Like maize, this is one of Mexico's more prevalent export. For many, many years natives have utilized this plant for food, however, it is only recently that consuming this seed as a diet food/supplement has became fashionable.

Many meals are created in South America that utilise these seeds in their whole form, however, Drinks can also be made ouf ot the pulp of the seeds. Acres of land have been devoted to the production of chia plants, which is an indication of just how much in demand the chia seed has become as more and more people are realising the benefit of the chia seed.

Chia seeds are a fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids, which may help alleviate heart ailments and other health conditions. The seed is made up of 30% healthy oil. Chia seeds are also a good source of alpha-linolenic acid, which has also been shown to aid in the prevention of cardio-vascular disease. As well as being used in bread making, chia seeds can be sprouted and used like any other veggie in salads etc.

There are varying classifications of chia, some of which are not grown for food, so it is best if you ask your local grocer, or whomever you are buying your chia seeds from, to ensure that you have the correct seed for using as part of your nutritional diet.Remember, you can always get the same nutritional content from chia seeds by using chia supplements, supplements containing chia seeds will usually contain a huge amount of the oil, which can help provide all your omega fatty acid needs.

The seeds are suitable for eating "as they come" and this is often the best method to consume them if you want to take full advantage of the health benefits. Fat, protein and fibre in these seeds are great for the body! When making bread with chia seeds, they are typically added in to the bread mixture along with toasted corn.
Mexicans make a drink with the chia seed which is known as chia fresca, you can find a fantastic recipe for chia fresca HERE
Powdered seeds can also be incorporated into most puddings and desserts.


Chia seeds are considered a super food when it comes to nutrient concentration, they are wholesome since they include proteins, alpha-linolenic acid and fibre as well as, calcium, phosphorus, manganese, potassium and sodium.
Chia seeds give a healthy alternative to protein bars. If a dieter is tired, he needs a good source of energy. If energy levels are low and a person cannot consume carbohydrates because of his diet, he needs a great source of dietary protein. Chia is one of the best plant resources of protein and can give you all the energy you need, indeed it is the sugarless counterpart of eating peanut butter.

Chia seeds have a very long shelf life, and will happily sit in a cool dry environment for many months, this antioxidant rich seed contains all the minerals you need for keeping your body in great shape!

For more health advice visit http://healthylifestlyles.blogspot.co.uk/2012/09/the-health-benefits-of-eating-chia-seeds.html