Chia seeds are originally from Mexico, the Mayas already knew the great beneficial properties for health and in fact "Chia" in the ancient language of the Mayas meant "strength".
Until a few years ago they weren't very well known while in recent years, with the spread of healthier food trends, they have become real stars that every food-conscious person does not fail to have in the pantry.
Here are 10 reasons why they are truly unique and healthy:
- Chia seeds are considered among the healthiest foods on the planet, despite their tiny size they contain a large amount of highly concentrated nutrients that make them a "superfood" to all intents and purposes. They are naturally gluten free.
- They are rich in antioxidants that help fight the production of free radicals, anti aging and anti cancer.
- Almost all the carbohydrates that compose them are made up of fibers which, unlike sugars, do not raise the level of glucose in the blood and absorb a lot of liquids, increasing the sense of satiety and feed the "good" intestinal bacterial flora. With 40% fiber, Chia seeds are one of the most important sources of fiber in the world.
- They have a good protein content (14%) and balanced amino acids which are especially valuable for those who do not eat animal proteins.
- Precisely thanks to the fiber content combined with that of protein they can help you lose weight, increasing the sense of satiety and reducing hunger attacks.
- Like flax seeds they are rich in omega 3 (more than salmon!) but not containing DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) they are considered a source of lower quality omega 3. To reap all the benefits, it is advisable to take a DHA supplement (or eat salmon, tuna or oily fish among the few food sources of DHA).
- Recent studies have linked the intake of chia seeds with a reduction in the risk of heart attacks and a lowering of blood pressure.
- Chia seeds help strengthen bones thanks to their calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and protein content.
- Some studies (for now carried out only on animals) have shown how taking chia seeds can help keep blood insulin levels under control and avoid glycemic peaks.
- They can help reduce states of chronic inflammation (the study is still ongoing)
In 100 grams of Chia seeds we find:
468 kcal
31g Fat (Saturated 3.3g, Polyunsaturated 24g, Monounsaturated 2.3g)
42g Carbs (34g Fiber)
17g Protein
16mg Sodium
407mg Potassium
335mg Magnesium
631mg Calcium
7.7mg Iron
