In addition to being rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, Chia seeds provide us with energy, satiety and can help us lose weight. These dark, gluten-free dark seeds with a great supply of fibers and antioxidants are very fashionable. And with all reason! Chia seeds are an ideal food for all people: from celebrities and athletes, to children. The word chia is of Mayan origin and means 'force'. For thousands of years, this seed has been used as a base for food in Central American countries and, with the passage of time, has been incorporated into all types of gastronomy. This is because it is scientifically proven that these seeds are full of vitamins, omega 3 fatty acids and minerals.
Although chia seeds were part of the Mayan and Aztec diet, they have now spread throughout the world and are included in all kinds of preparations, both sweet and salty: fruit smoothies, desserts, breads, salads, and so on. They do not alter the taste of the food, since they have a mild taste, but they do add a touch that is both crisp and different.
Nutritional properties
According to the American Nutrition Society, this superfood contains up to 5 times more calcium than milk, which is very favorable for the diet of lactose intolerant people and vegans. As well:
They contain more proteins than vegetables.
They are 3 times richer in iron than spinach.
They provide three times more antioxidants than blueberries (therefore, they prevent cell oxidation).
They provide 2 times more potassium than a banana.
They contain twice as many fibers as oats (which favors good intestinal transit).
Benefits of the consumption of chia seeds
1. They help promote satiety
According to the National Polytechnic Institute of Mexico, chia seeds contain properties that, together, provide a feeling of considerable satiety once they are ingested. Therefore, it is advisable to incorporate at least one teaspoon in our snacks to avoid resorting to the snack of snacks between meals. Upon contact with any liquid, the seeds increase 10 times its size inside the stomach and this is what gives the feeling of fullness. Of course, helping to satiate the appetite, promotes weight loss, or maintaining a healthy weight.
2. They favor hydration
Are you one of those people who do not usually consume too many liquids during the day? Maybe it's because you forget, or because you do not like drinking water. In that case, you should try to increase your water intake and boost it with some chia seeds. Especially during and after physical activity.
3. Reduce joint pain
The omega 3 fatty acids provided by chia seeds are anti-inflammatory and, therefore, are a good food if your joints hurt or you are prone to injury in certain areas, such as the knees . They are also good to help relieve the discomfort caused by arthritis and osteoarthritis.
4. Protect from the action of pollution
Living in cities causes many problems for our health. In addition to stress, pollution is a factor that does not go unnoticed. If we add to that the smoke of tobacco and UVA, the consequences are dire. Chia seeds have the ability to protect us from these harmful agents. How? They improve the health of the skin, create a protective layer against the sun's rays and strengthen the lungs.
5. They provide a lot of energy
Lately you are very tired, without strength or with problems of concentration? Then it's time for you to consider adding chia seeds to your diet. They will help you to be more active from the early hours of the morning. Also, since they contain more protein and potassium than many fruits and vegetables, they will give you the dose of energy you are missing. Ideal for Mondays!
6. Help increase muscle mass
Another advantage of consuming chia is related to energy. When we play sports and want to show more muscles, sometimes we resort to chemical supplements that are not good for health, or that have adverse side effects. An excellent natural replacement are these seeds, because they regenerate tissues and increase muscle mass. Add them to smoothies or juices before and after going to the gym!
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