12 Health Benefits of Chia Seeds

You might have heard about chia seeds, whether in your local health store or from health booklets.

But what exactly can you get from chia seeds and why are people so excited about them?

Chia seeds have been used for hundreds of years as energy boosters. Aztecs used them before big hunts, and runners use them before big races.

Health Benefits of Chia Seeds

1. Chia seeds have been used to stimulate saliva. This keeps you from getting dry mouth, which can alter the pH of your mouth, and which could encourage the growth of bacteria that can cause tooth decay. This stabilization of mouth pH also helps take away bad breath.

2. Chia seeds have also been used for joint pain relief. This is important for athletes, runners, and even dancers, all of whom have to keep active while contending with one of the telltale signs of aging: lack of joint lubrication. This means that chia seeds can also benefit those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis.

3. Chia seeds can help prevent heart disease. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and don’t go rancid despite this high oil content. This means they can store for much longer, allowing you to get more nutrients for a much longer time.

4. Chia seeds can give you a boost of energy. Athletes, runners, and yes, the great Aztec hunters have all benefited from this special property of chia seeds. Some studies show that about a teaspoon is enough to keep you energized for a full day.

Moreover, this is not a short-lived energy boost. It is long and constant, allowing people greater endurance when taking chia seeds.

5. Chia seeds can give you an overall “good” feeling. Although this property is not well-traced or documented, it could be due to the boost of energy that it gives. This energy boost could increase the production of endorphins, which can give you the feeling of being happy.

6. Chia seeds can regulate your blood pressure. They slow down your body’s absorption of essential nutrients from your food. They also have high omega-3 fatty acids, which can help lower the amounts of cholesterol that can harden your arteries and raise your blood pressure. Therefore, chia seeds can contribute to better circulatory system health – and most importantly, heart health!

7. Chia seeds can reduce the symptoms of menopause. PMS can be difficult: from mood swings to hot flashes, chia seeds can ease them and make the transition less uncomfortable.

8. Because chia seeds can slow down the absorption of nutrients, including carbohydrates, they can also be good for diabetics. Once the body slows down its breakdown of carbohydrates, the body suffers less from a sudden surge of sugar, giving time for insulin to act.

9. Chia seeds can also contribute to better bone health. They contain various minerals and vitamins which, when used together, can lead to better calcium absorption. As you get older, your body absorbs calcium less efficiently, which means that you should have as many sources of calcium as possible, and as many sources of helpful minerals that can aid in calcium absorption.

10. Chia seeds can aid in weight loss. Chia seeds absorb a good deal of water, weighing down your stomach and making you feel full. They can therefore lower your appetite, allowing you to eat less – and increase your energy stores, allowing you to exercise more.

11. Chia seeds encourage wound healing. Chia seeds have a good deal of nutrients that the body can easily absorb that will help heal wounds and aid in cell regeneration. People with injuries can use chia seeds to give their immune systems a much-needed boost.

12. Chia seeds are rich in both soluble and insoluble fibers, making your colon healthier. This can help your body flush out toxins, as well as absorb nutrients that can help you make the most out of your food. Chia seeds have also been linked to a decreased risk of colon cancer.

Like flax seeds, you can add chia to your yogurt, cereals, or oatmeal. You can also blend them in water. Unlike flax seeds, you don’t need to grind up chia seeds in order to get the most out of them. This special property makes chia seeds versatile.

These are only a few advantages of chia seeds. Find out more by talking to health care professionals and nutritionists. With chia seeds, you can be healthy both inside and out.