Superfood Sunday: Chia Seed

Chia seeds are full of antioxidants, and they are a great addition to smoothies!

This ancient Mexican grain is native to Central and South America, and was a cherished food to the Aztecs, used to increase stamina and promote general well being. Chia, depending on the variety, is white or black and its marketed under a variety of names but the fact is, this little seed is responsible for the grass-like hairstyles of terra-cotta decor “pets,” affectionately known as Chia Pets. Cha-cha-cha Chia indeed! The health benefits offered by this ancient grain are due to its remarkable nutrient content that in a handful, offers a balanced blend of nutrients to sustain energy between meals.

What Does Chia Seed Contain?
Omega-3 fatty acids, more than even salmon, or flax seed!
5 times more calcium than milk
High amounts of dietary fiber
A complete protein source
Essential minerals like iron, and potassium
Antioxidant protection from free radical damage

What Can I Do With Chia?
Top salads, breads and pasta!
Add it to whole grain cereals
Blend into smoothies and shakes
Stir into yogurt
Add to sauces and soups

Small, organic Chia seeds are full of omega 3 and 6 fats, protein, fiber and antioxidants and absorb water easily. Soaking chia seeds in water turns the seeds into a thicker, gel as it absorbs up to 10 times its weight in water. Turn your Chia into an easy-to-mix gel to add as a thickener to soups, jams and soups. Use it as often as you like to add Phosphorus, Zinc, Copper, Manganese and Calcium to your favorite foods. Get your Chia Seeds today, here!

Chia Seed and Your Weight. Need a few more reason to add a little nutty flavor to your favorite recipes? Here’s 5 reasons to get Chia into your diet today.

Chia seeds help reduce hunger, and food cravings because they prevent some of the foods you eat from absorbing into your body. Its ability to reduce calorie absorption makes it a handy tool for dieters, and over-eaters alike.

An effective appetite suppressant, Chia seeds can help you feel full because they absorb so much water, even while in your body. Those tiny seeds soak up about ten times their weight in water to form a gel that fills you up!

They provide nutrients essential for a healthy body. The richest source of Omega-3 fats (the fats that reduce inflammation for younger looking skin, and less joint pain). These healthy fats have been shown to support heart health, reduce blood pressure, improve mental function and more!

They are easy to digest, even easier than flax seeds and you don’t have to grind them.

Chia seeds slow the digestion of carbohydrates and the process that converts them into simple sugars. Studies have shown that chia seeds may offer a variety of benefits for diabetics due to Chia’s effect on blood sugar.

There are tons of Superfoods out there that can help you achieve your weight management goals, from weight loss to muscle development. Foods that support overall health, while speeding weight loss often contain fats, known as essential fats, or essential fatty acids because the body needs them for cellular health, but cannot produce them so they must be taken in through diet. Get more information on healthy fats, and their health benefits here. Ever heard of Quinoa? This versatile grain is also an ancient staple-food that provides tons of healthy nutrients, along with muscle-building proteins and amino acids. Try some today and get cooking with the new Skinny Ms. Quinoa E-Book. You’ll be amazed at how many different ways you can use this versatile grain…it even has two bonus dessert recipes!

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