Our nature mother has blessed us a lot for living a healthy and happy life. It’s in our hand to live with nature and lead a natural way of living. Nature never deceives us, it is we who deceive ourselves.
Chia seeds are one among the nature’s creation for humans. They are small seeds full of nutrients that come from desert plant Salvia hispanica grown in Mexico. Chia seeds are nutty in flavour and contains omega-3 fatty acids,iron,calcium and antioxidants. Chia seed comes from the mint family and is called a super food short time ago.
As per Ayurveda Chia seeds are sattvic in nature that enhances the fire element in the body.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF CHIA SEEDS
EXTENSIVE HYDRATION KEEPS THE pH LEVEL IN BALANCE
Chia seeds improves deep hydration at all tissue levels which promotes the well functioning of the body and keeps the pH level in the balanced.
IMPROVES BOWEL MOVEMENT
Chia seeds are rich in fibre. Taking soaked chia seeds in the morning can aid in digestion and improve bowel movement.
PROMOTES HEALTHY HEART
It contains a good amount of omega-3 fatty acids alpha linoleic acid or ALA helps maintain a regular heart rhythm which promotes the heart health.
ENHANCES OUR OJAS
They improve and maintain our inner strength and vitality called Ojas. They promotes body metabolism and induce optimal health. These black and white seeds are a storehouse of antioxidants and calcium.
REDUCES THE INFLAMMATION
The presence of omega-3,omega 6 fatty acids in chia seeds reduces the chronic inflammation in the body and balances the digestive process.
CURBS THE HUNGER AND PROVIDES ENERGY
Consuming the soaked seeds curbs the hunger and makes one feel fuller for longer. This aids in weight loss and gives energy to work out.The soluble fibre and protein in chia seeds may help to lose weight.
MANAGES HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE
Chia seeds reduces the level of nitrites in the blood and contains components that act as ACE-I(angiotension I-converting enzyme inhibitors) which helps in controlling the high blood pressure.
CONTROLS DIABETES
The fibre rich chia seeds slow down the digestion and release of sugar in blood which in turn helps in controlling the blood sugar.
GOOD FOR SKIN
The nutrients in chia seeds can stop up to 70% of free radical activity in human body. Antioxidants boost the repair system of the skin and prevent damage. Taking chia seeds can prevent premature aging due to inflammation free radical damage.
GOOD FOR BONE HEALTH
Chia seeds are rich in various nutrients essential for bone health like calcium,phosphorus and magnesium. Researchers suggest that taking this nutrient could increase bone mineral density.
HOW TO ADD IT IN YOUR DIET?
Chia seeds taste bland and are easy to add it in your diet. They can be soaked in water to form a gel and added to juices,pudding,oatmeal,smoothies and baked foods.
You can use them to thicken sauces and as an egg substitute as they have the ability to absorb water and fat. A good thing is no need to cook the seed as you can directly use the soaked seeds.
You can take 2 to 3 teaspoons of chia seeds soaked overnight in a glass of water early in the morning.
You can take ½ to 1 teaspoon of chia seed oil in the morning before meals.
It is better to consult the doctor while taking chia seeds during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult the doctor before taking chia seeds in case of chronic diseases. If you are on blood thinning medications you must consult your doctor before taking chia seeds as they have blood thinning properties.
CHIA PUDDING
Soak 3 -4 teaspoon of chia seeds in water overnight. Mix it with 3/4th cup of coconut milk/almond milk/cashew milk and a pinch of grounded cardamom/cinnamon.
Then add needed coconut sugar/jaggery/palm sugar/honey/maple syrup.
You can refrigerate for 2 hours and top it with sliced banana, strawberries and nuts of your choice and enjoy it.
TAKE AWAY
Chia seeds are one of the rich sources of fibre and antioxidants. They help to control the cholesterol levels due to its anti-inflammatory properties and keeps the heart healthy. It is advised not to take more than 3- 4 teaspoons of chia seeds in a day otherwise lead to digestive problems.
