3 Cheers for Chia! The Benefits of Including It In Your Diet

You’ll definitely find praise for the chia seed throughout the community here at GR8NESS. We love them so much we decided they need their own spotlight. Chia seeds are sheer, fibrous truth that good things come in small packages. They’re nutritious, tasty, and so versatile. Having originated from Mexico and Guatemala, and enjoyed since as early as 1500 BC, they aren’t a new kid on the superfood block.

Not convinced they’re something to celebrate? Take a trip through the evidence, taste yourself some chia pudding, and get back to me.

It’s a Recipe Alternative Go-To

Chia seeds are a chameleon of the food chain. They are delightfully versatile, especially when trying healthy recipe adaptations. They hold up well when integrated into both solids and liquids, and they can be enjoyed raw and cooked.

Bake them into bread, use them in place of breadcrumbs, throw them in a smoothie, or have them in cereal. They take on the taste you give them, and isn’t that kind of all we’ve ever asked for out of a recipe ingredient?

They’ve Got Unrivaled Nutrients

Your digestive system wants chia seeds, trust me. They are heavily comprised of protein as well as soluble fiber, which makes them ideal for releasing the build-up in the digestive tract. They also have a pretty hefty makeup of essential vitamins and nutrients like vitamin E, folate, iron, niacin, and more. Their high content of antioxidants helps to detox and cleanse the body.

They’ll Make Your Heart Happy

Chia seeds can be helpful for those who struggle with risk or presence of heart disease. They can lower and control blood sugar, as well as blood pressure. Considering that heart disease is the leading cause of death among men and women, it’s pretty stellar that chia seeds can help. Not to mention, the link between what chia can do for your gut (your digestive system), which in turn affects heart health.

How to Eat Them Safely

This section is for the H8TRS—Kidding! The downsides of chia seeds are less about their physical effect and more about what happens when they’re consumed in excess. Ensure you’re eating them safely by:

• Having a modest amount: Be careful not to have too many chia seeds as their high content of fiber can be dangerous in excess. Gas, bloating, and other digestive issues may occur if too much fiber is consumed. Twenty grams is an average portion.
• Avoid having them while taking certain medications: While chia seeds can improve digestive and cardiovascular health, the opposite can occur if one is taking medication for diabetes or blood pressure. Moderate intake is suggested.
• Stay hydrated: Because chia seeds tend to absorb so much liquid, it’s important to keep a steady intake of fluids as to avoid becoming dehydrated.

There it is friends, chia seeds are certainly something to cheer for.