Thursday, 22 October 2015

CHIA SEEDS

After a while of searching, I have finally found a place to buy Chia seeds on the high street in a shop I didn't even think to look in - I stumbled across them by accident. I've tried looking in Tesco and Asda amongst other shops but I finally found a supplement section in Boots which sells Chia seeds. Woo!


So what are Chia seeds? They are tiny black seeds produced by the Salvia Hispanica which is native to South America. Chia seeds are the highest combined plant source of Omega-3, fibre and protein which is full of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants with calcium, manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, fibre and protein amongst the best nutrients that Chia seeds provide. Chia is the ancient Mayan word for strength which I think describes them perfectly with the amount of nutrition they give you.

They are rich in Omega-3 which can help reduce inflammation and cholesterol amongst many other health benefits. Read my post here if you'd like to see how important Omega-3 in the diet is.

Because of their high fibre content (40% by weight), Chia seeds can absorb up to 10-12 times their weight in water which expands in your stomach once eating, increasing fullness and slowing down the absorption of food meaning you should feel fuller for longer. Good for those who are wanting to lose weight! Fibre also helps to improve bowel function, lower cholesterol and reduce inflammation.

Chia seeds are rich in antioxidants which help protect the body from free radicals, aging and cancer. The high number of antioxidants means Chia seeds can last up to 2 years. 

Chia seeds are 14% by weight in protein which is very high compared to other plants with protein being one of the most weight loss friendly nutrients in the diet. Again good for those who are wanting some weight loss!

Because Chia seeds are a good source of calcium, manganese, magnesium and phosphorus, they are good for bone health which is important for people who don't eat dairy products. They are also gluten free which is good for those who have a gluten free diet.

Chia seeds have also been shown to help reduce blood sugar levels as well as lower blood pressure.

Chia seeds can be added to muesli, cereal, porridge, salads, smoothies, baking products, yoghurt, vegetables, rice or with water or fruit juice where it becomes a gel. Chia seeds dramatically increase the nutritional value of a meal.

I bought a 150g pouch from Boots at £4.95 which should last at least a couple of weeks if I have the recommended tablespoon every day.

I can't wait to experiment with Chia seeds!

Have you tried Chia seeds? What do you eat Chia seeds with?

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