9 health benefits of chia seeds

I still remember my first tryst with chia seeds. Many summers ago, when we had moved up north in the peak of the summer, a neighbor got a sweet smelling green juice laced with chia or sabza seeds. Khus ki sharbat to the umpteen glasses of roohafza, everything had these magical seeds added to it. And not to forget the homemade faloodas! As a child, getting to chew those slightly spongy, soft yet sticky seeds was pure joy.

Forgotten for years, chia seeds made a comeback in my life about two years ago when I discovered it in a healthy smoothie. A quick search on Google revealed that nutritionists now label chia seeds or sabza as a super food capable of lowering cholesterol and blood pressure. Yes, there are lots of proven health benefits of chia seeds. Not just a healthy heart, but it also promised to help lose weight and improve your skin and hair.

Interested to know more about the health benefits of chia seeds? Here are 9 reasons why you should be including chia seeds in your diet.

9 health benefits of chia seeds

Get ah-mazing skin

Chia seed oil helps to hydrate and nourish your skin. It reduces trans-epidermal water loss and helps to lock in the moisture levels even in the driest of skins. Since chia seed oil is available as a carrier oil, mix a few drops with your regular moisturizer and use. Works perfectly on excessively dry areas of your body – soles, heels, elbow patches and knees.

No more laxatives

Chia seeds act as natural laxatives. It is rich in fiber that helps to eliminate body waste effectively without you having to pop in those store bought medicines. One glass of lukewarm water with soaked chia seeds is all that you need for a cleaner bowel!

 

Health drink on the go

Addicted to health drinks? Give them a miss and try chia seeds instead. For those who complain of fatigue, chia seeds is packed protein, vitamins and minerals. These ensure that you get your much needed energy dose every day. Legends say that the ancient Mayan army drank water with chia seeds to build their endurance levels.

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Healthy food option

Add soaked chia seeds to your breakfast options – smoothies, overnight soaked oats, porridges and more. Not only does it enhance the taste of food but also ensures you have your daily dose of vitamins, minerals and proteins.

Lose some weight

There are proven health benefits of chia seeds. Chia seeds are rich in fiber. Since the seeds absorb large amounts of water, when it is consumed, it helps to create a feeling of fullness. This is turn curbs the appetite. However, it is important to note that while it does create a feeling of fullness, certain studies have indicated that this did not affect weight loss. This can vary according to body types.

A perfect vegan option

Does your diet lack in protein? It’s a known fact that dairy products and meat contain a high percentage of protein that the body requires. But if you are a vegan, these options are certainly ruled out. Chia seeds contain a decent amount of protein and are also rich in essential amino acids. When consumed, it will give the required protein intake to the body. And it is also gluten-free.

Interested in knowing more about the proven health benefits of chia seeds? You should head to The Quint to read more. 

This post was originally written for Fit.The Quint. You can read the rest of the post here.