Chia seeds were an important food for the Aztecs and Mayans, but have only become widely known in the Western world in recent years.
Only approx. 2 tablespoons (28 grams) of chia seeds contain the following nutrients:
Fiber: 11 grams, Protein: 4 grams., Fat: 9 grams (5 of which are omega-3), Calcium: 18% of the recommended daily intake, Manganese: 30% of the recommended daily intake.
Magnesium: 30% of the recommended daily intake.
Phosphorus: 27% of the recommended daily intake.
It also contains zinc, vitamin B3 (niacin), potassium, vitamin B1 (thiamine) and vitamin B2. This is amazing, especially considering that this small amount provides only 137 calories and one gram of digestible carbohydrates. If we subtract the fibers from this – most of which are digestible – two tablespoons of Chia seeds contain only 101 calories. This makes Chia seeds almost unbeatable among natural foods in terms of nutrient content per calorie.
Chia seeds have an extremely high antioxidant content.
Two tablespoons of Chia seeds contain 12g of carbohydrates, but 11g of fiber, which is beneficial in several ways. On the one hand, our body does not digest fiber, so the energy contained in it is not absorbed. On the other hand, the Chia seed can absorb 10 times its own weight in liquid, as a result of which it saturates the stomach and helps prevent overeating. About 40% of the weight of Chia seeds is dietary fiber, which is one of the highest sources of fiber in the world.
Chia seeds are an excellent source of protein. 14% of the weight of Chia seeds is protein, which is outstanding among plant foods. In addition, the essential amino acids are found in a balanced way, which makes it even more valuable. Adequate amounts of protein can help you feel full and delay the onset of hunger again.
An excellent source of Omega 3. Chia seed consumption has been proven to increase the amount of Omega 3 fatty acids in the body, which can reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.
It is an excellent source of nutrients necessary for healthy bones. These include calcium, phosphorus and magnesium. Its calcium content is particularly impressive – 18% of the recommended daily intake in two tablespoons. On a per-gram basis, this is higher than most dairy products. As a result, Chia seeds are considered an excellent source of calcium for those who do not consume dairy products.
It can reduce blood sugar levels and blood sugar spikes after meals.
HOW CAN IT BE INCORPORATED INTO EVERYDAY MEALS?
Chia seeds are incredibly easy to incorporate into your diet. It can be eaten raw, whole, soaked in juice, added to porridge, pudding, milkshakes or alongside baked goods, but you can also sprinkle it on any of your hot dishes. Since it absorbs both water and fat, it can be used to thicken sauces and as an egg substitute. It can be mixed with water to form a gel. Adding Chia seeds to any food drastically increases its nutritional content.
WHAT SHOULD WE PAY ATTENTION?
Although Chia seeds are an excellent source of Omega 3, it is worth knowing that they contain Omega 3 fatty acids in the form of ALA, which the body must convert into EPA and DHA fatty acids in order to be able to use them. This process is not perfect, especially for DHA. Therefore, in addition to Chia seeds, especially if you follow a plant-based diet, it is worth taking in Omega 3 fatty acids from other sources, which already provide them in the form of EPA and DHA. The best source of this is algae oil. If you do not consume enough dietary fiber, you should gradually introduce Chia seeds into your diet to avoid digestive system surprises.
Packaged in a gluten-free factory.
Nutrition facts in 100g | ||
Energy | 2.035 kJ / 486 kcal | |
Total fat | 30,5 g | |
– Saturated fat | 3,3 g | |
Carbohydrate | 42 g | |
– Sugars | 0 g | |
Fiber | 35 g | |
Protein | 16,5 g | |
Salt | 0 g |