You Should...Chia Seeds

Ever hear of Chia Seeds? If you have heard the term before, you might be thinking..."Chia Pet! Ch..Ch...Ch...Chia!" Well, you're in luck...you're right!

What are Chia seeds?
~Chia seeds are actually a flowering plant in the mint family. They are grown in Mexico and Guatemala.

Why should I add Chia seeds to my diet and meals?
~Chia seeds have many health benefits. They are listed below! Chia seeds...

• are a great source of Omega-3. They actually contain the highest amount of Omega-3 from a plant source. I know you've heard about Omega-3 before, right?!? They help protect against inflammation and heart disease, so eat up!
• assist in controlling blood sugar. Ever feel woozy or tired? You're blood sugar probably dropped. Chia seeds help slow down the process of converting carbs into simple sugar, so they help regulate good blood sugar levels.
• help maintain weight loss. Yep, chia seeds actually block some (not all) of the calories that you ingest.
• keep you feeling fuller, longer. Chia seeds absorb 8-10x's their weight in water, turning to a gelatinous texture. This takes your body a little longer to digest and keeps your metabolism high.
• increase energy levels. Chia seeds are a good source of plat protein and nutrients.
• are high in antioxidants. Chia seeds are so high in antioxidants that no chemicals or preservatives are needed to maintain their freshness for 2 years at room temperature! Hello younger looking skin and a more youthful you! Talk about a power food!
• help lower blood pressure. Chia seeds are high in fiber. This can help reduce blood pressure levels.

How do I eat Chia seeds?
~It doesn't matter how you eat Chia seeds. Add them to a protein shake, add them to what you bake, add them in yogurt, etc. Eat them and reap the benefits!

What is the nutritional value of Chia seeds?

205.5 calories, 108 calories from fat

13.5g fat, 1.5g saturated fat

0g cholesterol

7.5mg sodium

18g carbohydrates, 16.5g fiber, 0 sugars

6g protein

Vitamin A - 0%, Vitamin C - 0%, Calcium - 27% (Wow!), Iron - 0%

 

Where can you buy Chia seeds?

~You can buy Chia seeds in most organic or Whole Foods stores. If you don't have a Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, or other health food stores, check out the organic section in your regular grocery store. If that fails, you can order them online through many sources.