I’ve been consuming chia seeds, in moderate amounts, for quite a while, but two recent occurrences made me take a closer look and do some research on the subject.
A few months ago, I could not find chia seeds in any of the supermarkets that we usually shop at. My wife told me that a well-known personality in Istanbul, had praised its weight loss effects so much in the social media that people rushing to buy it had exhausted the supply. Fortunately, one of the Internet suppliers of health foods had it, so I made my purchase.
I thought it was just an exaggeration.
We visited my family in the US about two months ago, and I usually buy bottled kombucha when I’m there. This time, I found one that had chia seeds in it; and quite an abundant amount I might add.
I usually consume a bottle a day, about 5-8 ounces I think. Anyway, when we came back, I saw that I had lost about 7 pounds (2.5-3.5 kg.) I didn’t need to. This worried me a bit. However, going to the gym after about 3 weeks of no resistance training, I saw that I had not lost any strength, even though I had lost weight.
These two things lead me to research chia seeds in detail and report back to you, my readers.
These seeds, which originated somewhere in Mexico, were included in meals consumed by Aztecs on a daily basis.
Chia seeds are made up of about 20 % protein, 34 % good fats, and 25 % dietary fiber, and a large amount of antioxidants. Chia seeds also contain linoleic acid, omega-3 fats, and other unsaturated fatty acids.
Benefits provided by chia seeds
- Omega-3 fatty acids
These seeds are like fish, as they are so rich in fatty acids. It is said that these fatty acids can help reduce cholesterol, improve the health and functioning of the heart, fight depression and thus improve one’s bad mood.
- Weight loss helper
When the seeds are put in water, they absorb much of it. The same thing happens in the stomach; they absorb the water and give one a feeling of satiety.
The process of losing weigh with the help of chia seeds is fast and effective, and there are no adverse effects on your body. It is also claimed that consuming chia seeds destroys the desire to consume unhealthy foods.
- Energy
If you are active in the gym, or take daily walks, as all of us should be, consuming chia seeds will give a hefty boost to your energy level.
- A rich source of calcium
Chia seeds contain more calcium than milk, and more potassium than bananas, on a volume basis. I guess that’s why vegetarians love chia seeds.
The benefits for healthy bones, hair and nails are obvious.
- Fountain of youth
As we mentioned before, these seeds are a great source of antioxidants. Antioxidants protect our telomeres, cells and DNA from free radicals, and thus extend our lives.
It is claimed that the concentration of antioxidants in one chia seed is more than that of a blueberry.
Consumption of chia seeds
What is suggested is quite a bit more than what I was consuming before the chia seed kombucha in the states, and maybe why the weight loss kicked in with a more plentiful consumption.
The suggestion is: 3-4 tablespoons per day.
For starters, you can begin with 1 tablespoon a day, and gradually increase the dosage. Because of the neutral flavor, you can consume chia seeds with almost every meal: stews, porridges, soups, yogurt, or a salad.
Note that chia seeds have a long shelf life.
It’s not too late to start.
See you all next time.
