The name of chia seeds is derived from the Aztec word “chian” ” for “oily”, which stands for the high content of omega-3 acids in them. Omega-3 acids are also found in fish oils, flax seeds, and kiwi seeds, and the balance between them omega-6 oil is very important for our health.
Chia seeds are excellent for our digestion since they are abundant in fiber, and if soaked in water, they create a gel-like solution that moves through the body and cleanses it. Moreover, it prevents the fast breaking down of carbohydrates in the body by decelerating the action of the enzymes on the carbs.
The Aztecs loved chia seeds, due to their amazing nutritional value and countless beneficial properties.
These seeds are low in calories, but rich in protein, fiber, manganese, phosphorus, and calcium, as well as antioxidants and important micronutrients.
One ounce (about 28 grams) of chia seeds provides:
- 137 calories
- 12.3 grams carbohydrates
- 4.4 grams protein
- 8.6 grams fat
- 10.6 grams of dietary fiber
- 0.6-milligram manganese (30 percent DV)
- 265 milligrams phosphorus (27 percent DV)
- 177 milligrams calcium (18 percent DV)
- 1 milligram zinc (7 percent DV)
- 0.1 milligram copper (3 percent DV)
- 44.8 milligrams potassium (1 percent DV)
Chia seeds also contain magnesium, iron, iodine, niacin, thiamin, several essential fatty acids, as well as vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin E and vitamin D.
Here are some important facts about the powerful chia:
- It is gluten-free and rich in antioxidants
- It is abundant in dietary fiber
- Chia seeds contain 19 amino acids, with all of the essential amino acids except taurine.
- It has 20% protein
- Chia has 8 times more omega-3 than salmon
- It has 7 times more vitamin C than oranges
- Chia has 5 times more calcium than milk
- It contains 3 times more iron than spinach
- Chia has twice the potassium content of banana
- It contains 20% omega-3 ALA, so it improves brain and heart health
- Chia regulates blood glucose levels
- Improves the health of the skin, nails, and hair
- You can mix chia seeds with water and use the gel to replace eggs in recipes
To reap the benefits of chia seeds, add them to your fruit juices, baking goods, protein bars, smoothies, salads, or any other dish.
