The surprisingly healthy Chia seeds are gaining more and more popularity as a versatile and nutritious “superfood,” and that’s in large part because of all the amazing health benefits the humble little black seeds provide.
I first discovered Chia seeds at a bodybuilding expo, where most of the “nutritional products” being sold were actually chock full of aspartame, sucralose, artificial flavors and colors, and other unhealthy additives.
The Chia seeds sample I tried was mixed with organic greens powder, and the strange, gelatinous texture was something I got used to pretty quickly.
The health benefits always make Chia seeds worth it, especially in a morning smoothie packed with organic fruits, vegetables, and other superfoods.
Most people know the word Chia through the ubiquitous “Chia Pets,” which gained a ton of popularity in the 1990s and were sold at drug stores throughout the country.
Now, Chia is making a comeback as perhaps one of the most exciting superfoods on the scene, and many people report better health and more energy from using them every morning in their wake-up water or smoothies. If you put even a handful of chia seeds (I like to use about 2 tablespoons or so) in your morning smoothie you’ll be able to reap the full benefits.
Just make sure you stir for a good 10-20 seconds first and let them sit for a few minutes before consuming so they expand and take up the liquids.
Chia seeds are an excellent addition to your morning smoothie. PHOTO: WhatsGabyCooking.com (labeled for reuse)
Here are six particularly remarkable health benefits of chia seeds to know:
Rich in Omega 3s- Omega 3 fatty acids are highly lacking in the American diet, which is rich in Omega 6 fatty acids such as corn, soy and canola oils.
Chia seeds are especially useful for runners, and for adding to morning smoothies.
Getting more Omega 3s can be a challenge, especially for some vegans, but chia seeds offer an excellent vegan source with over four grams per ounce.
Mineral-dense- From phosphorus to calcium, chia seeds provide minerals that help support healthy bones and a healthy stress response. Since it can be tough to get enough dark leafy greens that provide these minerals, chia seeds make for a more convenient replacement.
Packed with Fiber- Lots of foods claim to be packed with fiber, especially processed ones, but the humble chia seeds are likely to be much more effective at “cleaning you out.” They expand when stirred in water, allowing them to clean sweep your intestines and colon.
Keeps you Hydrated- Chia seeds are best taken after stirring in water and then letting them sit for 20 to 30 minutes minimum. This allows them to expand, and once they get in your system they will hydrate your body continuously over time.
Perhaps that’s why they’ve been described as a superfood for people who enjoy running, especially distance runners like marathon participants.
Anti-Belly Fat- With their ability to cleanse toxins and to stabilize blood sugar while making you feel fuller, chia seeds are excellent for keeping belly fat at bay.
They’re versatile and easy to add to smoothies, or leave them out overnight in water to make a thick, delicious chia gel that can be used in your own personal chia pudding recipes.
Chia seeds are also great for athletes and weekend warriors as they used to be consumed by actual Aztec warriors before embarking on journeys for days if not weeks and months at a time. Soldiers would carry the seeds in little pouches, snacking on them for energy throughout the day and running for miles and miles at a time.
If you do buy chia seeds, it’s best to buy organic, you can check out organic chia seeds by clicking on this link.
RELATED: Check out our Tropical Chia Sunburst smoothie recipe here.
I personally like to add Chia Seeds to my morning smoothie or organic Greens Powder drink mixes.
The three main flavors of Organic Supergreens from Paleo Valley.
The superfoods powder shown above from Paleo Valley is the Best Tasting and Best Quality Organic Greens Powder I have ever had.
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About Nick Meyer
