5 health benefits of chia seeds and how to include them in your diet – Times Now

Chia seeds – benefits and ways to include in diet&nbsp | &nbspPhoto Credit:&nbspiStock Images

Chia seeds are a good source of nutrients and antioxidants – especially omega-3 fatty acids

They can be consumed cooked or raw, and added to baked goods

Here’s why you should include chia seeds in your diet and how to eat them for maximum benefits

New Delhi: Chia seeds are edible seeds that belong to the Salvia hispanica family. The use of chia seeds dates back to the Aztec Civilization in the 16th century. Over the years, it has become a popular health food because of its purported health benefits. They can be eaten cooked or raw, but you should add them to another food or soak it before eating.

Health benefits of chia seeds

Here are some health benefits of chia seeds that you must know about:

Contains omega-2 fatty acids: Chia seeds are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. In fact, they contain more omega-3 fatty acids than salmon.

Rich in antioxidants: Chia seeds are rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants have a positive impact on health as it helps against ageing and cancer.

High protein content: Chia seeds are an excellent source of protein, thereby making it an ideal food to include in your weight loss diet.

Rich in fibre: There is high fibre content in chia seeds. This helps the body absorb food better and improve digestion.

Help in weight loss: As chia seeds are high in fibre and protein while being low in calories, they serve as an excellent food that can help you manage and maintain a healthy weight.

How to include chia seeds in your diet

Chia seeds do not have any flavour, thereby making them easy to add to your diet. Furthermore, chia seeds add to the texture and nutrition value of your food. Here are some ways in which you can include chia seeds in your diet:

Cereal replacement: Alter your usual cereal by replacing it with chia seeds. To prepare this, just soak some chia seeds in milk overnight and later top with fruit, nuts, or cinnamon before serving.

Salad: An easy way to add texture and enhance the healthiness of your salad by sprinkling some chia seeds on it.

Protein bars: Protein bars are one of the healthiest snack choices. Add to its wholesomeness by making chia seeds as one of the main ingredients of your homemade protein bar.

Water: Talking about an easy way to include chia seeds in diet, what could be easier than adding it in your water? To prepare this, just take 4 cups of water, add 40 grams of chia seeds to it and leave it to soak for about 30 minutes.

Juices: To make your juice rich in fibre and minerals, just add chia seeds to it. To prepare the drink, just take 4 cups of fruit juice, add 40 grams of chia seeds to it and soak for 30 minutes.