Chia seeds come from Salvia hispanica, a plant that grows in the desert and is a part of the mint family. At first glance, these tiny seeds may not look like much; however, they’ve been getting a lot of attention lately. Why? – Because they are a rich source of several vital nutrients, including omega 3 fatty acids, fiber, zinc, iron, calcium and magnesium.
Recent research indicates that adding chia seeds to your diet could be beneficial for a number of reasons. From reducing cholesterol levels to improving cardiovascular health, chia seeds may be small, but they can potentially pack a big punch for your health. In fact, some health experts claim that they are among the healthiest foods on the planet.
Chia seeds can be cooked or they can be consumed raw. They make a great topping on salads, oatmeal, yogurt, veggies and rice. They can be added into casseroles and soups. They don’t have any particular flavor and blend into whatever food they are added to, so getting the health benefits that chia seeds provide isn’t hard.
How, exactly, will chia seeds benefit your health? Here are 20 advantages you’ll reap when you add these tiny, but mighty, seeds to your diet.
1. Boost energy levels
If you’re feeling sluggish, instead of pouring a cup of coffee and grabbing an energy drink, reach for some chia seeds. Packed with antioxidants, omega 3 fatty acids, protein, and tons of vitamins and minerals, including phosphorus, manganese, and magnesium, chia seeds work wonders for raising energy levels. In fact, a recent study found that chia seeds provide just as much, if not more, energy than an energy drink. And, unlike energy drinks, they are all-natural and don’t contain ingredients that could be harmful to your health. Sprinkle some chia seeds onto a bowl of cereal or mix them into a smoothie for an energy boost.
