Chia seeds are traditional herbs of Mexico and the US. For the Native Americans, legendary myths have reiterated the usage of this herb in the age of the Aztecs, Mayans and Incans. A member of the sage family Salvia Hispanica, the seeds of this plant was used as a staple food crop and was also used to prepare nutritious juices. The word ‘Chia’ in the Mayan language stands for strength and this food source was used mainly by the messengers who travelled large distances carrying a small packet of this energy source stored during the journey. It is also known as the ‘Indian running Food’ by many.
The tiny black and white seeds of Chia are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. They are the potent source of carbohydrates, fibre, protein, numerous vitamins like A, B, E, and D, and several minerals such as calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, iron, sulphur, iodine, zinc, copper, sodium, manganese, niacin, silicon, thiamine and antioxidants. One ounce of Chia seeds is proven to have 137 calories, 11 grams of fibre, 4 grams of protein, 12 grams of carbohydrate, 9 grams of fat and multiple other vitamins and minerals. Moreover, it is free of sugar which makes it even more delectable for fitness freaks. The advantageous part of consuming Chia seeds is that, it needs no processing unlike many and has a tasty flavour like nuts. The easiest and most popular way of consuming it is by mixing with water and gulping it down. It can help one to avoid food cravings for a long time and sustain the body energy at the same time.
Chia seeds have become popular gradually although, it is not yet much visible in the European consumerist market. Several recipes have also come up to use it in different dishes. It is even recommended to have at least a teaspoon of Chia seeds right before starting with the day. To start a good, zestful, energetic morning a spoonful of Chia with enough water to drink can boost your spirit up and help you retain energy through the odds of the day for a longer stretch.
Chia seeds are most commonly added to beverages and also used as garnishing ingredient over cooked vegetables, salads, cereals and other baked products. As a good substitute to food, chia seeds can work as the powerhouse of energy and prevent one from excess calorie intake. An ounce of Chia seeds in the whole day meal chart can work wondrous and cause weight loss successfully. It becomes even better a weight loss food due to its rich fibre content as well. Almost half the fibre value required from food intake in a single serving is provided by Chia seeds.
The essential fatty acids in these seeds are extremely necessary for our bodies to build up the multiple cells that are in constant constructive mode throughout the body . It regenerates good hair and skin and protects the heart.
Calcium an essential nutrient for human beings is an unavoidable source for our survival. Right from birth our mother’s milk becomes the sole source of the calcium we need. Without calcium our entire skeletal structure would become fragile and porous. Malnutrition, a serious issue across the world has attacked millions of individuals who are deprived of the basic nutrition and women are the prime victims of this attack. Osteoporosis, a major issue with bones is more common for those without proper calcium nutrition. Chia seeds have more than 3 times the source of calcium than found in skimmed milk.
The reason Chia seeds makes one feel heavier with every time of consumption is because the seeds have the unique capability to trap moisture every time they are exposed to any kind of liquid. As a result of this, they can trap the water content inside their shell which makes them slippery from outside. The hydrophilic property of the seeds helps to absorb more than 12 times of water than its actual weight. When we consume it, the water inside each seed makes the actual quantity of the seeds more than what it is and we feel fuller. Moreover, a food that can help in good digestion is always pro weight loss program. The gel like effect of these seeds helps to segregate the carbohydrate from the digestive enzymes which in turn prevents the creation of sugar from the carbohydrate. Thus, the fat storage in the wrong body sections is prevented. The rich fibre content in the seeds helps in gradual digestion which keeps us away from untimely food intakes.
Just like Garcinia Cambogia, it balances the blood sugar level in the body. While the seeds of chia substitute the food intake, Garcninia Cambogia does not work as a meal substitute. It rather stirs the secretion of serotonin level in our body that regulates our food cravings and moods from time to time.
Chia seeds also restore the omega- 3 fatty acids that yet again balance energy without much food consumption in real. Omega-3 is also good for improving digestion, and relieving few kinds of arthritis pain. Metabolism is the key to weight loss. Any food source that stimulates good metabolism should be encouraged, although few have their own lists of side effects as well.
There has been no serious negative consequence recorded from the use of Chia. Yet, in case of any doubt it is preferable to get a doctor’s advice before using it. In the recent time, it is used mainly by athletes to keep them strong and sturdy and fat free. Several pharmaceutical companies have gradually popularised the use of this product but it needs to be promoted more across the world. This natural multi nutrient food can save many malnourished sections of the society. It needs to be cultivated on larger scaled with mass production.
Not only is it a good egg substitute or milk substitute, it is used in mainly preparing puddings, soups, salads, yoghurts and even making meatballs with bread crumbs. Its thickening agent is good for preparing many dishes. A little smash of lemon juice with chia seeds is a wonderful drink to gulp down during the strenuous hours of the day. Many find it better than flax seeds that need more care before consuming. It needs processing and then powdering which altogether is a time consuming process.
Chia seeds are a great way to start a day but it should not be forgotten that such supplements work better when we control our mind to eat more nutritiously along with these products and maintain a hygienic and healthy living.