02/06/2021
Good things come in small packages - the same is true of chia seeds which belong to the mint family and are extremely small yet power-packed with nutrients and minerals.
Small oval-shaped, they are soft seeds that are multicoloured - brown, black and white. One of the most interesting things is their ability to soak up water. Chia seeds are hydrophilic, which means they can be easily mixed with water and can soak up to twelve times their weight!
Chia seeds contain iron, calcium, B vitamins and minerals like thiamine, manganese, magnesium, zinc and phosphorous. According to medical experts, small quantities of chia seeds added to a daily diet can help strengthen immunity, boost metabolism and fight against several diseases.
HELPS WITH DIGESTION
Chia seeds are enriched with fibre. Every 100 gram will give you close to 40g of dietary fibre which is an excellent agent for digestion and helps keep bowel-related ailments like constipation, inflammation, irritability away and regulating cholesterol levels as well.
AIDS IN WEIGHT LOSS
Just a handful of chia seeds when mixed with nuts and dry fruits or included in smoothies or shakes can help you keep full for longer. These can soak a lot of liquid and expand in the stomach, which helps in suppressing appetite, warding off untimely hunger pangs, preventing binge-eating, and thereby helps in weight loss.
PACKED WITH OMEGA 3’S
Omega 3 is extremely important for our body's functioning. Chia seeds are one of the highest sources of plant-based omega acid, also known as Alpha-Linolenic Acid. These are a part of PUFA’s which are the 'good fats' and extremely essential for the nervous functioning of our body.
DOSE OF ANTIOXIDANTS
Chia seeds are loaded with essential nutrients
HOW TO ADD CHIA SEEDS TO THE DIET
Chia seeds bear a distinct texture after getting soaked. They expand, become softer and carry a silky, velvety texture. Chia seeds can render a fresh dimension to your cooking. They are enjoyed best when added to smoothies, shakes, lassi or cold coffee. You can also sprinkle them on top of salads, add them in dips, use them in baking, add them in infused waters or simply eat them raw.