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5 compelling reasons to consume chia seeds
Table of Contents
1. Healthy fatty acid content in chia seeds
Chia seeds are characterized by a high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids, among which omega-3 fatty acids prevail over omega-6 fatty acids. This is a significant advantage, as the diet typically contains more omega-6s, which leads to inflammation and the development of civilization diseases. The alpha-linolenic acid present in these seeds may not be as strong as the eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids found in fatty fish, but it still possesses robust anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic properties.2. It is a protein complex
In certain plant-based products, it is feasible to discover small quantities of protein, however, they are typically insufficient to satisfy the requirements of an active individual. Chia seeds represent a product that defies this rule. One solitary spoonful contains almost 2 grams of protein encompassing all 9 essential amino acids, making it perfect for anyone who desires to enhance their physical appearance. Incorporating chia seeds into a meal will be an excellent method to augment the overall protein content and ameliorate the flavor of the dish.3. Plentiful in fiber
One of the key advantages of chia seeds is their high fiber content. One tablespoon contains nearly 4 g, while 100 g of chia seeds contains a whopping 40 g of fiber. This is particularly important for people who have difficulty obtaining adequate amounts of this nutrient in their diet. Chia seeds contain nearly five times more insoluble fiber than soluble fiber, which gives them relatively strong water-absorbing properties, resulting in a longer-lasting feeling of fullness. Furthermore, dietary fiber regulates the frequency of bowel movements and supports the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. It slows down the digestion of carbohydrates and the rise in blood sugar levels after a meal, lowers blood pressure, and reduces the absorption of cholesterol and triglycerides. All these properties make rich sources of fiber, such as chia seeds, a powerful weapon in the fight against obesity, insulin resistance, and other civilization-related diseases associated with diet. This was demonstrated in a 2010 study by a team of Canadian researchers who administered a portion of carbohydrates in the form of bread and a chia seed supplement in amounts of 0 g, 7 g, 15 g, or 24 g, depending on the group. The higher the dose of chia seeds, the greater the feeling of satiety and the lower the blood sugar level (slowed absorption).4. Mighty antioxidants found in chia seeds
Chia seeds are a rich source of mighty antioxidants that aid in the fight against diseases and the negative impacts of stress. They inhibit the peroxidation of biological lipids, i.e., the oxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids that constitute cell membranes. This is a harmful process, as it damages cell membranes, affecting their permeability and surface potential. Lipid peroxidation products accumulate in tissues and can cause various disorders and diseases (diabetes, atherosclerosis, cancer). The antioxidant properties of chia seeds are primarily due to the presence of phenolic compounds, such as caffeic acid and gallic acid. Some studies suggest that chia seeds may have antioxidant properties comparable to trolox, a vitamin E derivative considered as an exceptionally strong component.5. Anti-cancer activity
Scientific research confirms that chia seeds have antiproliferative effects on cancer cells from various tissues, making them an effective mechanism in the fight against cancer. The focus has been particularly on reducing the risk of breast, cervical, and skin cancer. The fats found in chia seeds facilitate the production of pro-inflammatory eicosanoids in cancer cells, which is crucial for effectively combating cancer. Moreover, preliminary studies on rats indicate that groups fed with Spanish sage exhibited smaller tumors.
