Chia Seed

Chia seeds are one of the most abundant sources of omega-3 fatty acids. A plant in the Salvia genus, chia derives its name from the Latin word salvare, which means to save. This naming refers to curative properties.

Powerful Dose of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

A 28-g serving of chia seeds contains 4915 mg of omega-3 fatty acids and 1620 mg of omega-6 fatty acids. Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is a plant based omega-3 fatty acid that makes up 66% of the oil in chai seed. This proportion is higher than that in flaxseed oil (56%). Four teaspoons of chia seed provide 4.8g of ALA, which can help prevent and treat arthritis when consumed daily.

Cardiovascular Health Enhancer

Chia seed is cholesterol free. Experimental studies showed that chia seed diets can dramatically decrease triglyceride levels and increase HDL (“good” cholesterol). Regular chia seed consumption can also reduce blood pressure and inflammation, lowering cardiovascular disease risk.

Scientists studied type 2 diabetes patients who consumed around 37 g of chia seed or wheat bran daily for 12 weeks. They found that those who consumed chia seed had decreased risk of cardiovascular disease. Patients experienced thinner blood that was less prone to clotting, thereby reducing their risks of heart attack and stroke. They also experienced reduced internal inflammation and systolic blood pressure (maximum blood pressure)

Source of Antioxidants

Compared with other sources of omega-3s – namely fish, algae and flaxseed, which have no or low levels of antioxidants – chia seed is abundant in antioxidants that help fight free radicals and nourish the immune system.

Energy Booster

Chia seeds are 16%-18% protein – higher than eggs – and this protein is a complete protein, rich in amino acids. Research indicates that protein in chia seeds is of higher quality than that of common cereals, and occurs in higher levels than in nutritional grains such as wheat (14%) and oats (15.3%). One tablespoon of chia seed, along with some water, could sustain a person for 24 hours.

Chai seeds contain strontium, which acts as a catalyst for protein absorption and energy production. They can also absorb more than 12 times their weight in water, helping the body to conserve water. In addition, chai seeds can help to calm nerves and strengthen memory.

Eye health Promoter

Chia seeds are greatly beneficial for eye health. They are an excellent source of ALA. ALA has powerful anti-inflammatory effects that may help prevent eye conditions linked to oxidative stress and inflammation. These include dry eye syndrome (DES), age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy. Furthermore, a U.S. study showed that topical application of ALA significantly relieved DES in animal models.