Chia seed is a Superfood and is part of what I call, the Superfoods family. Don’t hesitate to have a look on my other article “Superfoods” if you don’t remember what a Superfood is.
Where does this strange small seed come from ?
Chia seeds are tiny black seeds from the plant Salvia hispanica, a related plant to the mint.
Native to Mexico, Chia seeds were an important food for the Aztecs and Mayans.
They ate these small seeds, for the sustainable energy that they would be providing. “Chia” which is by the way, the ancient Mayan word for “strength”.
What are the benefits of eating Chia seeds ?
Chia seeds are a good source of vitamins and minerals. They contain:
- Omega-3 fatty acids (which may prevent sudden heart attack and stroke; play a role in regulating blood pressure, blood clotting, immunity and brain function)
- Vitamin B1 (Thiamin) (plays a big part in energy production from carbohydrates and fats)
- Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) (is needed for growth and overall good health. It helps the body break down carbohydrates, proteins and fats to produce energy, and it allows oxygen to be used by the body)
- Vitamin B3 (Niacin) (In fact, every part of your body needs it to function properly. As a supplement, niacin may help lower cholesterol, ease arthritis and boost brainfunction)
- Calcium (which is bone-friendly)
- Magnesium (wait.. another bone-friendly ?!)
- Phosphorus ( strengthens your bones and teeth; increases memory and mental functions)
- Zinc (Zinc promotes growth and acts as a wound healing)
- Potassium (helps to maintain consistent blood pressure)
- Manganese (too many bone-friendly in Chia seeds..)
Chia seeds are also awesome for:
- Their high amount of proteins, and the high quality of those proteins.
- Their high amount of fibers.
- Their carbs, as they are mainly fibers.
- They can lower the level of bad cholestherol (LDL and triglycerids) in the blood, while increasing the good cholestherol (HDL).
- The minerals they contain, as they fight against diseases.
- Helping with blood pressure regulation.
- Their powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
Do not forget that these are in no way some “miracle” food, capable of saving us from diseases. The basis to a good health is simply to eat healthy and to exercise!
You enjoyed reading this article ? You have questions ? You found this article helpful ? Don’t hesitate to leave a message and to hit the like button !
See you soon for another article, your healthful blogger in sports.
Nicofitwolff.
Picture source:
- https://thepioneerwoman.com/food-and-friends/chia-seeds-101/
- https://tuul.tv/lista-paginada/salud/10-razones-amar-chia-tercer-semilla-importante-mexica
Sources:
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-proven-health-benefits-of-chia-seeds
- https://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/shopping-storing/food/superfoods#chia-seeds
- https://www.stylecraze.com/articles/awesome-health-benefits-of-phosphorus/#gref
Categories: Superfoods
Nicofitwolff 