What are chia seeds and are they worth the hype? Chia seeds may be small, but if you’re looking for an easy way to optimize your health, these tiny seeds are a great option. Read on and find out the health benefits of chia seeds and learn how to add them to your diet.
What are chia seeds?
Chia seeds are the tiny seeds from the Salvia hispanica plant, with colour ranges from white to brown or black. These small, flat, and oval-shaped seeds are in fact nutritional powerhouses, packed with fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.
Top health benefits of chia seeds
1. Improve gut health
Chia seeds are good for gut health because they contain gut-healthy fiber, both insoluble and soluble fiber, making them a great choice for relieving constipation.
2. Support bone health
The tiny seeds contain minerals like magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, and potassium—all of which are known to be beneficial for bone health.
3. Help lower blood sugar levels
The high fiber content, healthy fat, and protein in chia seeds help prevent blood sugar spikes and assist with the regulation of blood sugar.
Breakfast or snack recipes of chia seeds
Chia pudding
Step 1: Combine the chia seeds, milk and 2 tsp maple syrup in a jar or bowl. Cover and chill overnight or for at least 8 hrs.
Step 2: When ready to serve, top with blueberries and a drizzle of maple syrup.
Chia & almond overnight oats
Step 1: Tip the oats and seeds into a bowl and pour over the milk and vanilla extract. Leave for 5-10 mins for the oats to absorb some of the liquid.
Step 2: Top it with yogurt and berries. Cover and chill overnight.
Step 3: To serve, pour 2 tbsp almond milk over and scatter with some almonds.