Benefits of CHIA Seeds

Benefits of CHIA Seeds

These small seeds also called "superfoods" can absorb up to nine times their weight in water when used to create the popular “chia gel.” These seeds can be used whole or ground, in any way. 

They can be added to yogurt, smoothies, soups, juices like those of oranges, sprinkled on salads or foods or added to baked goods like muffins, cookies etc. 

It can even be added to water, stirred a couple of times to break the clumps of seeds that form together. In about 5 minutes it forms a gel. This gel can be drunk as it is.

Benefits of CHIA Seeds

Benefits of having CHIA seeds in your Diet Plan

1. Aids in digestion: 

These seeds are commonly used to provide relief from stomach upset. Due to its carminative effects, it is effective for treating digestive disorders such as stomach cramps, flatulence, constipation, irregular bowel movements and indigestion.

2. Regulates Blood Sugar: 

The body’s regulation of insulin and blood sugar levels is a finely tuned process – one that’s often disturbed by high stress levels, low amounts of exercise and a modern diet that’s high in refined sugars and processed foods. 

Serious fluctuations in these hormone levels can lead to diabetes, a condition in which the body’s insulin production mechanism no longer functions properly to filter glucose from the bloodstream. Given that diabetes can lead to serious complications over time, managing blood sugar levels is crucial whether or not you’ve developed this condition. 

Fortunately, the combination of soluble and insoluble fiber helps to slow the conversion of ingested starches to sugars, resulting in steadier, healthier levels of blood sugar over time.

3. Aids in Weight Loss: 

The soluble fiber in the seeds forms a gel in the stomach and along with the insoluble fiber this adds roughage and bulk. Since the gel slows down digestion and movement of food, it causes the feeling of fullness to last longer thus controlling hunger and overeating. Also, as the carbohydrates are slowly absorbed, the normal spike and fall in sugar levels are avoided. 

Steady blood sugar levels keep hunger at bay for a longer period of time. A slow release of nutrients help in maintaining energy levels for a longer period. All these factors together control overeating and lead to weight loss.

4. Stress reliever:

Consumption of basil seeds has an uplifting effect on your mood and thus is beneficial for relieving mental fatigue, nervous tension, melancholy, depression and migraine. Due to its calming effect, it is commonly used for aromatherapy purposes, giving you clarity and mental strength.

How to Use:

Put 2 tsp. of seeds in 1/2 cup – 1 cup of warm water or liquid of your choice. If you want more concentrated of a flavor, drain excess water out after swelling the seeds with plain water. 

The warm water (not boiling) helps to fully swell the seeds, releasing antioxidants and digestive enzymes.

 Allow the mixture to stand for at least 2 minutes with the warm water/liquid to give the seeds time to absorb water and take on a gelatinous-tapioca like texture. 

The gelatinous texture of the swollen seeds makes a filling drink, which could help to curb your appetite if you consume it before meals. Making your own seed drink with an alternative sweetener reduces the calories from sugar. 

These seeds also have potential for creating a textured dessert, as an alternative to tapioca pudding — a treat on a calorie-restricted diet.