20 Healthy Reasons to Eat Chia Seeds

Chia seeds 1. Fiber
Chia seeds are high in fiber. Fiber is essential for helping the body detox, supporting proper elimination, and moving things out.

2. Protein
Chia seeds are an excellent plant-based protein option. You can add them to your pre or post workout smoothies and enjoy chia in the morning for a protein source at breakfast time.

3. Fat.
Chia seeds are a source of plant-based omega fats that are necessary for healthy brain function, great skin and recovery.

 4. Cleansing
Chia seeds help draw toxins out from the intestines and support cleansing. Add 1 tbsp. to a glass of water with lemon in the morning for a bit of a cleansing flush. Try this recipe and just add chia seeds. 

5. Digestion

Chia seeds can support healthy digestion.

6. Lower Blood Pressure

Chia seeds have been shown to lower blood pressure, which is a double edged sword so if you have low blood pressure, you don’t want to consume them too often.

7. Cravings

Chia seeds can help you feel full longer, thus warding off cravings. You can make chia puddings with cacao and fresh fruit for a healthy chocolate fix.

8. Gluten Free Cereal

Chia seeds are your solution to a higher fat and protein breakfast rather than an empty carb breakfast that leads to binge eating throughout the day. Try one of these breakfast bowls.

9. Type 2 Diabetes

Chia seeds are a type 2 diabetes approved food, they are high in fat, protein and can lower blood pressure.

10. Healthy Skin

Chia seeds are rich in Omega 3 fats known to support healthy and glowing skin, hair and nails.

11. Boost Metabolism

Chia seeds can support a healthy metabolism making it easier for you to reach your weight loss goals.

12. Increase Energy

Chia seeds support a boost in energy by providing you with the nutrients your body needs to thrive.

13. Lowers Inflammation

Chia seeds are rich in nutrients that support healthy bone density, hormonal balance and lowering inflammation.

14. Egg Substitute for Vegans and those with allergies

Chia seeds can be used as an egg replacement if you’re vegan or allergic to eggs. Find the ground chia seeds for best results!

15. Rich source of Antioxidants

Chia seeds are yet again a rich source of antioxidants. Pair chia seeds with berries in a breakfast bowl for a nutrition boost!

16. Calcium

Chia seeds are a plant-based source of calcium and a much healthier alternative to pasteurized dairy products that can interfere with digestion, weight loss, and even induce more inflammation in the body.

17. Versatility

Chia seeds are so versatile, you can use them as egg replacements, make puddings, add them to smoothies, and they have no flavor so you can choose between sweet or savory when you’re getting creative in the kitchen.

18. Weight Loss

Some people suggest using chia seeds for weight loss for a few reasons – they support digestion, they help regulate digestion and healthy elimination (great poops), they are high in fiber so they keep you full longer and this can result in eating less.

19. Stronger teeth

Chia seeds are rich in calcium and other minerals that support dental health, strong teeth and bones.

20. Healthy alternative to puddings and jams

Try making a pudding or jam out of chia seeds and ditch the high sugar, processed store bought versions. Here are three recipes you can try: 

How to Make Your Own Raw Jelly in Minutes
Magnesium Rich, Cacao Chia Pudding
Pineapple Turmeric and Chia Seed Cleansing Smoothie

 

Sheleana Aiyana

Sheleana is passionate about getting back to nature through real food and empowering women to walk the feminine path of self-care and deep self-awareness. She's a birth doula in Vancouver, BC She's an avid reader, intuitive culinary goddess and cat lady in the making.