What is Chia??? Why is it popping up everywhere?? Weren't "chia pets" a goofy gift people gave each other for a good laugh when they wanted to give a novelty gift?
Well, those pets may still be a silly gift, but they are also a powerhouse of a seed! Chia seeds come from a flowering plant in the mint family that's native to Mexico and Guatemala. This little seed, which comes in either white or a dark brown or black color, contains: calcium, manganese, and phosphorus. It is also a GREAT source of healthy Omega-3 fats. Chia seeds can be eaten whole or ground, unlike flax seeds which must be ground in order to get their health benefits.
So, how do you eat them?? Any way you choose! You can sprinkle them on salads, yogurt, put them in your smoothie, add them to your baked goods and just about anything else you can think of. The seeds are tasteless and won't affect the flavor of your food.
Studies are showing that the health benefits of chia can include:
A natural treatment for type-2 diabetes. Chia seeds can slow down digestion. The gelatinous coating these seeds develop when exposed to liquids can also prevent blood sugar spikes.
Fiber. Just a one-ounce serving of chia seeds has 11 grams of fiber. This is important for digestive health.
Omega-3 fatty acids. With nearly 5 grams in a one-ounce serving, these seeds are rich with the fats that are important for brain health.
Manganese. One serving of chia seeds, or 28 grams, has 30% of your recommended intake of this mineral. Manganese is good for your bones and helps your body use other essential nutrients like biotin and thiamine.
Protein. One 28-gram serving has 4.4 grams of protein, nearly 10% of the daily value. They also have no cholesterol.
Chia seeds can help to regulate your appetite. Tryptophan, an amino acid found in turkey, is also found in chia seeds. Tryptohan can help to control appetite, and also improve your mood and sleep.
Improve heart health. According to the Cleveland Clinic, chia seeds have been shown to improve blood pressure in diabetics and may also increase healthy cholesterol while lowering total LDL and triglyceride cholesterol.
So grab a bag of chia seeds and start reaping the benefits! Check out my Facebook page (use the link on this website) and find the chocolate chia seed pudding recipe - it's delicious and healthy!
Until Next Time,
"Live Now-Live Well!"
Tracy
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