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Health Reasons for Chia Seed

Chia is not just a pet that grows. Chia is in the mint family and is a flowering plant which grows primarily in Mexico and Guatemala since the time of the Aztecs and Mayans. The plant grows annually up to about 3 feet tall and produces flowers that are purple or white. Chia is grown for its seed, which provides a valuable source of fiber, protein, fatty acids and essential minerals. Chia can be consumed as a raw seed, ground seed, placed in water or even placed in baked goods.

  1. Fiber

    • Fiber is a carbohydrate that the human body is capable of digesting. By getting the recommended amount of fiber, you can reduce your chance of developing diabetes, obesity, heart disease, constipation, high blood pressure and other health issues. It is recommended that women get over 20 g of fiber per day and men get over 30 g daily. Chia seed is high in fiber, containing about 4.1 g of fiber in 2 tbsp., which is about 20 percent of the daily value based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

    Protein

    • Foods like vegetables, dairy products, nuts and seeds, beans and meat contain protein. Protein builds, maintains and replaces bodily tissues. The human body uses protein to make hemoglobin, which carries oxygen throughout the body. Protein is also essential to building cardiac muscle. Kids need about 0.5 g of protein for each pound of body weight, while adults need about 60 g of protein per day. Chia seed is about 20 percent protein, which is a higher rate than in other foods. In 2 tbsp. of chia seed, there is about 3.5 g of protein, which is about 7 percent of the daily value based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

    Omega 3 Fatty Acids

    • Omega 3 fatty acid is a type of polyunsaturated fatty acid which needs to be obtained through diet as it is not produced by the human body. Fish is often considered one of the best sources of omega 3 fatty acids, but chia seed is an alternative source. Omega 3 fatty acids help those with cardiovascular disease by decreasing the triglyceride levels, slowing the rate of plaque and lowering blood pressure. Omega 3 fatty acids are also believed to reduce the likelihood of developing arthritis, cancer and issues with mood and memory. Omega 3 fatty acids are also believed to decrease the risk of arrhythmias, or abnormal heartbeats, which may lead to sudden death. In 15 g or ½ oz. of chia seed there is the same amount of fatty acids contained in 9 oz. of salmon.

    Vitamins, Minerals and Antioxidants

    • Chia seeds are a source of vitamin B, calcium, phosphorus, potassium and other minerals and also contain antioxidants which protect the body's cells and prevent damage. Chia seeds can help those who have calcium deficiencies and help to improve bone health. Two oz. of chia seed contains 600 mg of calcium.

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