6 Impressive Health Benefits of Chia Seeds
Updated: Dec. 10, 2020These tiny ancient seeds, favoured by the Aztecs and Mayans (the word means "strength" in their language), provide major nutrients with minimal calories.
Chia seeds control appetite
Chia seeds contain 11 grams of fibre per ounce—that’s 42 percent of your recommended daily value in just one serving! How it works: Chia expands in your gut, curbing your appetite. Add to a breakfast smoothie or yogurt to feel fuller longer.
Chia seeds support strong bones
One ounce of seeds also delivers 18 percent of the recommended daily value of calcium. If you’re lactose intolerant or aren’t a big milk drinker, these little seeds can help provide the calcium your bones need to stay strong and prevent osteoporosis, according to Dr. Oz.
Here are 10 calcium-rich foods that are natural fat burners.
Chia seeds may help you sleep
These seeds are tiny bundles of tryptophan, according to sharecare.com, and that amino acid raises melatonin and serotonin levels. These are the hormones that support stable sleep.
Follow these sleep tips to make sure you’re getting the rest you need.
Chia seeds help control blood sugar
Chia’s high fibre content slows the conversion of carbohydrates to sugar and of sugar to fat during digestion, as per diabeticconnect.com. This helps keep blood sugar levels steady.
Avoid these sneaky things that raise your blood sugar level.
Chia seeds moisturize the skin
Chia seeds are also available in serum form. Nicholas Perricone, MD, suggests applying it directly to dry skin or cuticles for immediate relief. You can also add a few drops to your regular lotion for extra moisturizing power. The high omega-3 content means these seeds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can diminish redness and revive dry skin.
Here are 30+ natural ways to make your skin glow.
Chia seeds protect the heart
These seeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, even more than flax seeds and salmon, and this healthy fat is key to a healthy heart. High blood fat levels increases your risk of developing heart disease, and omega-3s have been shown to lower triglyceride levels.
Next, check out the high-calorie foods worth eating.
