You've probably heard about these little black seeds at some point. More than likely, you've heard them in the same sentence as the words "healthy" or "nutrition". They've even been recognized as one of today's "superfoods". But are they really as beneficial as some people make them out to be?
YES!
Chia seeds are one of the healthiest foods on the planet. They're jam packed with nutrients and antioxidants that your body and brain will love. They're also extremely versatile and can be added to just about any liquid-based food for that added boost. "Chia" is actually the ancient Mayan word for "strength", and that's no coincidence. These little seeds have been proven to provide sustainable energy at even low quanities. The reason for this is because Chia seeds contain:
(Per oz serving)
- 11g Fiber
- 5g omega 3 fatty acids
- 4 g protein
- 18% RDA calcium
- 30% RDA magnesium
- Zinc
- Vitamin B3
- Vitamin B1
- Potassium
- Vitamin B2
Woah, that was a mouthful. But yep, all of those yummy nutrients are packed into those little seeds at such a LOW calorie cost! Just a few tablespoons a day are all you really need to keep you up and going.
Another added benefit of consuming Chia seeds (I know, the benefits just keep on rolling) is that they swell up slightly when added to liquid based foods, so they give you that "full" feeling for longer periods of time, helping you to avoid excessive snacking in between meals!
Here are just a few simple ways that you can fit some Chia into your diet:
- 1tbs in oatmeal
- 1tbs in a smoothie
- 1-2 tbs in soup
- 1tbs sprinkled over a salad
- 1tbs in a serving of Greek yogurt
- Chia pudding (recipe coming soon)
Chia seeds are sold in pretty much every grocery store. I purchase mine in a 2lb tub from SAM's Club for about $10. The same brand can be found right here on Amazon.
So go ahead and throw some Chia into your lifestyle. You really have nothing to lose but you have A LOT to gain!
From Chia, with love.
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