eNZees Blog

Amazing Benefits of Chia Seeds

by Jill Schuman | January 13, 2016 | 0 Comments

The Amazing Health Benefits of Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are among the healthiest foods on the planet. They are loaded with nutrients that can have important benefits for your body and brain. The ancient Aztecs, Incans and Mayans often used the chia seed for its medicinal force and as a major source of energy—and they were certainly on to something.

Check out some of the great benefits below:

Add them to other foods for a healthy option.

Not only do chia seeds help you to feel fuller longer, but their balance of protein and fiber makes them an excellent filler for smoothies and baked goods. They also have this awesome gelatinous texture when you mix them with things like almond milk or coconut milk – perfect for calming sugar cravings without the crash! Chia has a neutral flavor, so it goes with just about anything. And, as a bonus, chia seeds can be stored for long periods of time in your refrigerator or pantry without going rancid, which makes it easier to save money by purchasing them in bulk.

They’ll calm your nerves.

Chia seeds are nutrient-rich with things like magnesium and tryptophan (yes, like Thanksgiving turkey), both of which can help to lower anxiety levels and keep your stress hormones low. As a bonus, they are also chock full of calcium – great news for people who need their fix, but don’t love dairy.

Reduce Your Risk of Metabolic Syndrome.

Chia seeds are rich in soluble fiber which dissolves in water, swelling to form a gel-like substance. This helps to improve your heart health by keeping blood sugar spikes at bay and lowering cholesterol. They are packed with anti-oxidants.

If you’re sick of eating blueberries to get your fill of antioxidants, chia seeds pack even more punch! As a reminder, antioxidants protect our cells against free radicals which play a role in cancers and other diseases. Am I slowly convincing you that chia is nature’s perfect food?

They are great for your skin, hair, and nails.

Chia seeds are chock full of omega-3 fatty acids. This means they strengthen hair, skin and nails all while reducing inflammation and dryness. In addition to your regular skincare regimen, hop on down to your nearest natural market and scoop up some chia to add into your diet.

Now that we know why chia seeds are amazing, try it for yourself by adding them to your favorite recipes!

 

Tagged: chia seeds health benefits, how to eat chia seeds, how to reduce risk of metabolic syndrome, natural stress and anxiety relief, omega-3 fatty acids, stress and anxiety