ORGANIC CHIA SEEDS

Chia Seeds 

a).Chia seeds are the edible seeds of the Salvia hispanica plant, a member of the mint family native to central and southern Mexico.
b).These small, oval-shaped seeds, typically a mottled mix of black, gray, and white, have a long history as a vital crop for ancient Aztec and Mesoamerican cultures.
c).Today, they are widely recognized as a nutrient-dense superfood and are commercially grown in many countries.

Nutritional Profile

Dried chia seeds are packed with nutrients. A 100-gram serving (about 3.5 ounces) contains approximately 486 calories.The nutritional content of two tablespoons (about 28 grams) of chia seeds includes:
Calories: 138
Protein: 4.7 grams
Fat: 8.7 grams (of which 6.7 grams are polyunsaturated fats)
Fiber: 9.8 grams
Carbohydrates: 42% (including a high content of dietary fiber)
Chia seeds are a rich source of B vitamins, including thiamin and niacin, and a moderate source of riboflavin and folate. They are also dense in several dietary minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, and zinc. In a gram-for-gram comparison, chia seeds contain more calcium than dairy products.

Health Benefits

The consumption of chia seeds is associated with numerous health benefits, largely due to their high content of fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and essential minerals.

Heart Health: The presence of the antioxidant quercetin can reduce the risk of several health conditions, including heart disease. The high fiber content may also help lower high blood pressure.

Bone Health: Chia seeds are rich in nutrients vital for bone health, including magnesium, phosphorus, and calcium.

Digestive Health: The fiber in chia seeds is a mix of soluble and insoluble fiber.Soluble fiber can help soften stool, while insoluble fiber adds bulk, which may promote regular bowel movements.When soaked, chia seeds absorb up to 12 times their weight in liquid, forming a gel-like substance.

Blood Sugar Management: Nutrients in chia seeds may help improve blood sugar management.

Weight Management: The fiber and protein in chia seeds may be beneficial for those trying to lose weight.

Rich in Antioxidants: Chia seeds are an excellent source of antioxidants, such as caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, kaempferol, and quercetin.These antioxidants help fight free radicals in the body, which can cause oxidative stress and cell damage.

How to Incorporate Chia Seeds into Your Diet

Chia seeds are versatile and easy to add to your daily meals.They can be eaten raw or soaked. Here are some common ways to consume them:
 
Added as a topping to smoothies, breakfast cereals, yogurt, and oatmeal.

Mixed into energy bars, granola bars, tortillas, and bread.

Made into a gelatin-like substance, such as chia pudding.

The gel from ground seeds can be used as an egg substitute in vegan and allergen-free baking.

It is recommended to start with about one tablespoon per day to allow your body to adapt to the high fiber content.It is also important to consume them with enough liquid, as their high fiber content might cause bloating or discomfort if eaten dry in large quantities.