Good things come in small packages, and by good things, I mean disease prevention, weight management, and tons of other life-improving “good things.” Don’t be scared of those weird chia drinks, or of sprinkling them on your salad next time you’re at the Whole Foods salad bar because they’re little seed superheroes who are just trying to help you live a healthy life.
Heart healthy. Chia seeds increase healthy cholesterol while lowering total, LDL, and triglyceride cholesterol.
Appetite controller. Just like turkey, chia seeds contain tryptophan. Yes, it may make you feel the need to nap, but it also controls your appetite, regulates sleep, and improves your mood!
Combat belly fat. Chia seeds help fight insulin resistance, which is tied to an increase in belly fat and can be detrimental to your overall health.
Great source of protein. Chia seeds are an excellent way for vegetarians to get cholesterol-free protein in their diets. One serving of the seeds contains 10% of your daily value.
27% of your daily value of phosphorous. This helps you maintain healthy bones and teeth, as aid in tissue growth and repair.
Plenty of manganese. Why does this matter? It’s good for your bones and helps your body use other essential nutrients like biotin and thiamin.
Calcium-rich. A serving of chia seeds provides you with 18% of your daily recommended intake of calcium. Byeee, osteoporosis.
Packed with omega-3s. There are nearly 5 grams in every 1 ounce serving. Omega-3s promote brain health, and getting them via chia is better than via flax seed. True story.
Up your fiber intake. Chia seeds are filled with fiber. Add them to your diet for an easy way to promote digestive health.
Fight diabetes. Chia seeds have the ability to prevent blood sugar spikes, and they’re being studied as a potential natural treatment for type-2 diabetes.