SUPER FOOD: CHIA SEEDS

We often hear about these "super foods" which apparently contain properties which are the key to success in a healthy eating plan. I have decided to join the hype and begin experimenting with these super foods to see what I think about them. This time I will be talking about Chia Seeds! What they are, how they benefit you, what they taste like, how you eat them and if they are worth it.

What are they?

Chia seeds are a species of flowering plant in the mint family, native to Mexico and Guatemala. They can be sprinkled on and added to foods to instantly add nutrition to your daily diet or can be heated up and turned into a gel which can replace butter and spreads in cooking or everyday use.

What are the benefits?

* They keep you full for longer because of their unique gelling action meaning they curb cravings. 

* Balances your blood sugar because it helps slow down the conversion of starches into sugars.  

* Gives your more energy because of it's high amount of complete protein.
* Great beauty food for healthy skin, hair and nails.

* Good for anti-aging due to all of the anti-oxidants.
* Very high in fiber for a good digestive system.

* Contains all 8 essential amino acids.

What do they taste like? How do you eat them?

They taste like most seeds but have a very versatile flavour so can be used for  number of things. You can sprinkle it raw onto almost any food, add it to breakfast cereals, salads, soups, bread, muffins or turn it into a gel by soaking in water. About a teaspoon a day will serve nicely in a balanced diet.

Are they worth it?

They can get kind of expensive costing $10 for 500g from the local supermarket but considering they contain more calcium than milk, antioxidants than blueberries, iron than spinach and potassium than bananas; I think they are definitely worth it when it comes to nutrition!

 

Posted in: Nutrition, Super Food