What Are Chia Seeds Good For? [More Than You Think!]

Want to know what chia seeds are good for? Chia seeds are high in ALA/ Omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, iron, electrolytes, and antioxidants.

They are great for helping you lose weight as they are a great source of fiber and can be added to many dishes for added nutrients.

Here Are Some of the Benefits of Chia Seeds

• They improve digestion due to their high fiber content.
• They help control blood sugar levels due to their high level of omega-3 fatty acids.
• They help reduce inflammation in the body.
• They are a good source of minerals such as calcium, iron, and magnesium.
• They are a good source of antioxidants that can protect the body from free radical damage.
• Most people's favorite benefit is that chia seeds can also help you lose weight.

How Do You Eat Chia Seeds?

Add chia seeds to your favorite dish or smoothie for anti-inflammation benefits, help with weight reduction and provide a sustained energy boost.

To activate the benefits of new chia seed intake, mix a tablespoon or so of ground or whole seeds into a glass of water and let it sit for 20 minutes before drinking.

If you don't have time to wait, try adding them to your breakfast cereal instead.

Stir them in with low-fat milk and either utilize half the quantity for chock full fiber content or increase by adding tablespoon as needed if you're following a calorie-restricted eating regimen.

5 Chia Seed Recipes I Like to Use

1. Chia Seed Pudding: Combine 1/4 cup chia seeds, 1 cup almond milk, and your desired sweetener in a jar or container. Shake or stir to combine and let sit for about 30 minutes. The mixture will thicken up as the chia seeds absorb the liquid.

2. Chia Seed Jam: In a small saucepan, heat 1 cup of your favorite fruit until it begins to break down. Stir in 1/4-1/2 cup chia seeds and let sit for about 10 minutes to allow the chia seeds to absorb the juices from the fruit.

3. Chia Seed Fruit Salad: Toss together 2 cups of chopped fruit with 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 tablespoon chia seeds, and your desired sweetener (brown sugar or agave works well). Refrigerate for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

4. Chia Seed Breakfast Bowl: Combine cooked quinoa with almond milk, chia seeds, chopped fruit (such as berries), nut/seed butter, and your desired sweetener. Place in the refrigerator overnight to allow everything to soak up the almond milk.

5. Chia Seed Milk: Mix 1/4 cup of chia seeds with 3 cups water and let sit for 10-15 minutes. Strain out the solids (if you like) or leave them mixed into the milk.

Want more? Here are 7 ways you can use chia seeds.

The Pros and Cons of Eating Chia Seeds

Pros:

Chia Seeds serve as an excellent way to increase your daily intake of fiber which aids weight loss, reduces blood pressure, and improves digestion.

Chia seeds provide sustained energy boosts due to their high Omega-3 fatty acid content which is used for cellular functions like brain function, heart health, and proper growth & development.

Cons:

People with gout should avoid eating chia seeds due to their purine content which can contribute to worsening of the condition.

Chia seeds can also take 20 minutes to digest, leaving you feeling bloated and gassy afterward.

• Digestive and stomach issues: This is the most frequent adverse effect, but it's also the least harmful. When you start eating a high-fiber diet, it's common for things to go away on their own or require a little more time to cook.
• Allergic reactions: Some people react to chia seeds, just as some react to foods like peanuts and raw eggs. Some of these reactions can be more serious, so it's best to avoid them if you know you're at risk.
• Blood pressure: Chia seeds can reduce blood pressure, and people with low blood pressure should avoid eating them. If your blood pressure is already low, you might feel dizzy or faint.
• Diabetes interactions: Chia seeds seem to be able to lower blood glucose levels. In the case of diabetes, this is a good thing. However, if you're taking medication that lowers your blood sugar levels, this could cause your medications to suddenly become ineffective. Make sure to check with your doctor before adding chia seeds into your diet.

What is the Best Time to Eat Chia Seeds?

It depends on your goals. If you're looking for sustained energy, it may be best to add them at breakfast or lunchtime.

If you're looking for an appetite suppressant, try adding chia seeds at breakfast.

Chia seeds can take 20 minutes or more to soak up water which will make you feel fuller until lunchtime.

If you want to maximize the health benefits of chia seeds, it's best to add them at breakfast.

Try adding chia seeds to your favorite dish or smoothie today and see how they can improve your health.