Chia seeds
source of omega-3
What is Chia seeds?
Chia is a plant with many health benefits, especially thanks to its slimming virtues.
A medicinal plant that was sacred to the Aztecs over 3,000 years ago, chia is today especially renowned for the virtues of its seeds.
A healthy food that has become very fashionable lately among bloggers and instagrammers, this natural source of omega-3 has a protective action on your body and is an ally in your diets.
What are chia seeds? What are their many benefits?
Origin and production of chia
Chia, or salvia hispanica, is an herbaceous plant native to the Mexico City Valley where it has been cultivated for thousands of years.
Similar to sage, it was part of the staple diet of the ancient peoples of Mexico, especially the Aztecs, after corn and beans. It was also used to prepare very thirst-quenching drinks when soaked in water.
Considered a sacred plant, chia was already recognized as medicinal and healing.
Highly energizing, it was given to soldiers before every military training or confrontation to give them strength, endurance and also to improve their intellectual performance against their enemies.
In recent years, chia has been rediscovered. It is now highly appreciated by nutritionists and is increasingly popular in the West. We are especially interested in its seeds, of more or less dark brown color.
Nutritional intake of Chia seed
- Source of vegetal omega 3
- Rich in proteins
- Rich in fiber
- Gluten Free
Chia Health Benefits
- Allows for a feeling of quick satiety
- Regulation of the glycemic index of meals
- Fight against constipation
- Decrease in blood pressure
Energy source
Transit regulation
Cardiovascular protection
Fight against cholesterol
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Nutritional value of Chia seeds
Today, the chia seed is a fashionable product that has caught the attention of nutritionists. In today’s society where we spend less and less time at the table, the chia seed is an ally! Quick and convenient to cook and consume, it is one of the most nutritious foods and allows to supplement nutritionally in a natural way.
Very rich in nutrients, protein and fiber, the chia seed is an interesting energy source. It is much richer in nutrition than other cereals or nuts, for example. Its protein level is also higher than that of wheat and corn. It is a concentrate of flavonols, flavonol glycosides, chlorogenic acid and caffeic acids. The chia seed also contains omega-3 in important proportion as well as omega-6. It is part of antioxidant foods.
The chia seed is also rich in calcium and phosphorus and is a source of vitamins, fiber and manganese. It is part of the family of super foods.
Chia seed for weight loss
Chia seed is a very low calorie food. Very rich in fiber and protein it helps to avoid the feeling of hunger and is therefore a very good ally to fight against snacking between meals. It also contains a particular amino acid: trytophan. This one makes it possible to regulate the appetite.
In addition, the chia seed has the particularity to swell in the stomach thanks to its capacity to absorb more than seven times its weight in water, forming a gel in your stomach. It will therefore give you a feeling of satiety faster, finally allowing you to limit your caloric intake. In addition, the chia seed improves your hydration thanks to the gel it forms.
The chia seed is also very effective in treating constipation and contributes to the well-being of your digestive system. It is thus also the ally of flat bellies.
Chia to fight diabetes
Several research projects are underway on the effectiveness of chia seeds in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It would slow down the digestive system and, thanks to the gelatine it contains, limit the sudden rises in the glycemic index.
The chia seed would thus slow down the conversion of carbohydrates into simple sugar and therefore has great benefits for diabetics.
Other benefits of chia seeds
Chia, thanks to its nutritional qualities, has many virtues.
– A source of energy: chia helps to give you vitality. You will wake up in the morning without wanting to go straight back to bed.
– A good complement for the sportsmen: rich in fiber and protein, the chia seed also prolongs your hydration during the effort and is a natural source of energy.
– The friend of the vegans: thanks to its gelatinous texture, the chia can replace eggs in your cakes and pastries. It is therefore much appreciated by vegans, but it is also an asset for people allergic to eggs. To replace eggs with chia seed, mix a spoonful of chia seed with 3 spoonfuls of water.
– A gluten-free product: chia provides all the benefits of the cereal but contains no gluten at all. A chance for people with intolerance!
– For healthy teeth and bones: the calcium content of chia is very high. Calcium contributes to the health of your bones and teeth, so chia can help you fight osteoporosis. A single 100 gram serving of chia seed covers 18% of your daily calcium intake!
– Regulate your transit: it is a food that effectively treats constipation.
– Fight against cholesterol and preserve your heart: although very rich in protein and lipid, chia does not contribute to bad cholesterol. It contains an important part of antioxidants and omega-3 which act as a protector on the cardiovascular system. Chia takes care of your heart and lowers blood pressure.
– Protect your brain: Omega-3s, while protecting your heart, also protect your brain. Chia then fights depression and preserves your brain capacities.
– Preserve your skin from the signs of aging: with a high intake of antioxidants and zinc, the chia seed helps fight against the free radicals responsible for the appearance of the signs of aging (wrinkles and fine lines, spots, lack of firmness, etc.). Chia also fights other skin problems such as acne, redness and various inflammations.
How to use Chia
Several products exist to allow you to vary the pleasures while taking advantage of the exceptional qualities of chia.
– Chia seeds: You can consume them daily in your dairy products, soups, smoothies or juices. You can also add one or two spoons to a glass of water to cut hunger between meals.
– Chia seed oil: An important source of essential fatty acids including omega-3 and 6, the consumption of chia oil is effective in preventing cardiovascular disease. Consume 1 to 2 spoonfuls per day before meals. You can also use it as table oil in your salads.
– Chia oil in capsule: If you don’t like to cook, this encapsulated chia oil is for you. Take 1 to 3 capsules per day before or during meals. Check the dosages on the instructions for your products.
Consume as part of a balanced and healthy diet.
How to eat Chia seeds
To consume the seed of chia differently: the buddha bowl and the pudding.
Do you know how to cook the chia seed?
To give you some ideas, here is the healthy trend of the moment: the buddha bowl and chia pudding!
