Do you know the many properties of chia seeds? It is one of the most powerful super-foods. Here’s why.
Do you know the many properties of chia seeds? It is one of the most powerful super-foods. Here’s why. You have certainly already heard of chia seeds, one of the most powerful super-foods, but what are they good for? Here are 20 properties of these special seeds.
According to a Brazilian study, chia seeds are useful in reducing body fat, especially that of the abdomen. They promote weight loss because they are rich in fiber and protein. They stimulate the sense of satiety and decrease appetite.
Chia seeds contain the precious essential fatty acids Omega 3, good for health, able to have a positive effect on the nervous system, the immune system, brain activity, mood, and joints.
Given the quantity of fibers, they are useful in case of constipation and to facilitate intestinal regularity.
According to the US Department of Agriculture, chia seeds are useful in the treatment of diabetic patients because they can regulate the level of sugar in the blood. They also contribute to improving blood pressure, even in the case of people with diabetes.
Based on research by UCSF Medical Center, chia seeds are an excellent source of alpha linoleic acid, useful in preventing breast cancer and generally creating the conditions necessary for cancer cells not to develop.
Omega 3 also help lower blood cholesterol and prevent cardiovascular disease. The authoritative Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is also supporting this.
According to a study published by West Virginia University, the fatty acids contained in chia seeds contribute to the well-being of the heart, in addition to reducing triglycerides, plaques on the venous walls, cardiac dysfunctions and blood pressure problems.
Are you feeling tired? You will find again the charge with chia seeds, thanks to the fact that they contain B vitamins, zinc, iron and magnesium. In addition, the University of New Hampshire has highlighted how chia seeds activate and speed up the metabolism.
Just because they are energizing and rich in vitamins and minerals, chia seeds are indicated in the nutrition of sportsmen, to face and to recover intense training.
Chia seeds are excellent sources of protein since they contain about 19% of good quality proteins.
A study conducted in Pittsburgh found that regular consumption of chia seeds also affects mood, facilitating serenity and helping in cases of anxiety, sadness and depression.
Chia seeds are good antioxidants
Chia seeds have antioxidant power thus preventing cell aging and helping to counteract the action of free radicals.
Chia seeds are useful for keeping strong and healthy teeth and bones in general since they contain calcium, phosphorus and manganese.
Chia seeds help to improve the appearance of the skin, reducing inflammation, wrinkles and making it more toned and well hydrated. According to a study conducted in Manchester these seeds also play a protective action towards UV rays.
Chia seeds are useful in preventing the formation of diverticula in the colon due to the fact that they contain Omega 3 and because thanks to the fiber intake they improve intestinal function. Dyslipidemia is a metabolic dysfunction that leads to excess cholesterol in the blood. The chia seeds have been proved useful in countering the damage of this disease helping to control cholesterol and promoting the production of HDL cholesterol, the "good" cholesterol.
Creating a gelatinous compound in contact with water, chia seeds can be a valid substitute for eggs in recipes.
Among the many beneficial effects of these seeds there is also the fact of having anti-inflammatory properties, for this reason they are valuable allies in case of joint problems.
Manganese is useful in the treatment of arthritis, diabetes, epilepsy, it provides an antioxidant action and accelerates the metabolism.
Magnesium is useful in cases of hypertension, heart disease, osteoporosis and type 2 diabetes, it energizes the body in times of fatigue, it helps to fight insomnia, irritability and it helps memory.
Containing tryptophan, an amino acid that stimulates the production of serotonin and melatonin by the organism, chia seeds promote sleep and relaxation.