Health Studios

Chia seeds are touted to be the new superfood but what is it that makes them so special? Why are these small grains so highly thought of in the world of diet and exercise and can they really alleviate pain? Carry on reading to learn the seven super secrets of Chia seeds and see what they can do for you…

1. Chia Seeds Are By No Means a New Discovery

They may be known as the new superfood because of their nutritional properties but Chia seeds have been part of the staple diet in South America since the time of the Aztecs and Mayans. Obviously they must have some benefits to have been included in the diet of these people for so long and it’s only now that the rest of the world is waking up to them.

2. Chia Seeds Are Possibly the Most Nutritious Grain Known to Man

The average Chia seed is composed of the following nutrients:

• 20%-30% protein
• 35%-40% oil which is virtually all Omega-3 and Omega-6 in optimal ratios for healthy cell function. The two main essential fatty acids within the oil are ±-linolenic acid and linoeic acid – both of which are vital for the smooth running of bodily functions.
• 25%-30% soluble & insoluble fibre
• High levels of major antioxidants
• Almost every vitamin and mineral required by the human body

In fact, a number of recent university studies have shown that a single tablespoon or Chia seeds, when taken with water, can keep an average person going for around 24 hours, even with hard labour. It is also listed with the World Health Organization as a complete food.

3. Chia Seeds Can Help With Weight Loss

These amazing little seeds work as an appetite suppressant because the high oil content and high fibre content act as bulking agents. This means that when they reach your stomach and turn into a gel your brain thinks you’re fuller than you are and you suppress the urge to eat again. This ability to become a gel is one of the main beneficial properties of Chia seeds. This gel is also believed to create a physical barrier between carbohydrates and digestive enzymes which slows down the conversion rate of carbohydrate to sugar. This helps keep blood sugar levels stable & reduces cravings.

4. Chia Seeds Are Beneficial to Endurance Athletes

The ability of Chia seeds to become a gel in the stomach also has the effect of blocking the uptake of carbohydrates and this in turn prolongs the effect that carbohydrates have on the body. When taken by athletes they tend to find they can perform their sport better and for longer, so giving them the performance edge.

5. Chia Seeds Can Help With Pain Relief

The high levels of Omega-3 contained in Chia seeds give the seeds amazing anti-inflammatory properties. This has been reported to have very beneficial effects with regards to the joint pain felt by users, and especially those that suffer from rheumatism and arthritis. This is a great help to many suffers of these conditions as it cuts down on the amount of prescription medications they require.

6. Chia Seeds Can Be Taken In Various Different Ways

The seeds can be made into a paste by soaking overnight in water. This paste can then be mixed with water or juice or can be added to sauces, yoghurts, smoothies and anything else that’s suitable. Alternatively you can add the seeds to any dish you are cooking as a food extender without changing the taste. It’s easy to get the recommended daily amount into your diet so you get the full beneficial effects.

7. Chia Seeds Have No Known Adverse Effects

Although Chia seeds haven’t been tested to the degrees that some other foods have there have so far been no adverse effects reported from users around the world. Saying that, pregnant women, breast feeding women and people with severe medical conditions should consult their physician before taking the seeds.

Chia seeds are in short a great source of nutrients. They’re easy to take, easy to digest and they even help to clean your intestines. They are definitely a contender to be the next new superfood and thankfully they’re widely available in Australia.

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