The Benefits of Chia Seeds!!

Chia seeds are the  new must-have that everyone should have in their pantry. Chia is very rich in omega-3 fatty acids, even more so than flax seeds. And it has another advantage over flax: chia is so rich in antioxidants that the seeds don't deteriorate and can be stored for long periods without becoming rancid. And, unlike flax, they do not have to be ground to make their nutrients available to the body. Chia seeds also provide fiber (25 grams give you 6.9 grams of fiber) as well as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, manganese, copper, iron, molybdenum, niacin, and zinc.Another advantage: when added to water and allowed to sit for 30 minutes, chia forms a gel. Researchers suggest that this reaction also takes place in the stomach, slowing the process by which digestive enzymes break down carbohydrates and convert them into sugar. 

Below are five major benefits of Chia, and ways to incorporate it into your everyday life.


End Snacking-Chia seeds are super high in soluble fiber which, in addition to filling you up, has cholesterol-lowering properties and prevents the absorption of fat. Try stirring two tablespoons of “whole” or “raw” chia seeds into a glass of water and wait a few minutes, drinking them down before the seeds absorb the water and get hard. It'll curb your mid-day cravings!

Better Sleep-Like turkey, they contain the sleep-inducing amino acid tryptophan, which raises melatonin and serotonin levels and helps promote stable sleep. With more than twice the tryptophan of turkey, you’ll need just 2 ounces of chia seeds to help you snooze.

Shiny Hair-This chia-seed shake provides a complete protein for your hair – containing all essential amino acids in an easily-digested form. Chia seeds are loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, omega-3 oil, fiber and minerals, which all contribute to strong and shiny hair.

Beautiful Skin-This homemade exfoliating scrub is just as effective as store-bought exfoliants – without the cost. Allow the mixture to set for two minutes and you're on your way to healthier skin!

Create Recipes Healthier-Top it off with this recipe from the Cleveland Clinic’s Center for Lifestyle Medicine. It gives you super cancer-fighting cabbage, plus a splash of inflammation-reducing omega-3s.