Benefits of Chia Seeds

Historical Uses

A major food crop of the Aztecs and other Native Americans, chia seeds were an invaluable source of nutrition and energy. Easy to store and transport, these seeds were used on long marches to maintain energy, as only one or two tablespoons of this nutrient rich food were said to be necessary to sustain a person through twenty-four hours of exertion. For everyday use, chia seeds were often roasted, ground into flour for cooking and baking, or made into gruel by mixing with water.

Both the indigenous populations and European settlers used chia seeds for medicinal purposes, too. Mixed with water, chia seeds treat fevers, and for infected wounds, a poultice of chia seeds was often applied inside a bandage. They also used chia seeds to remove foreign matter, such as sand, from the eyes and to treat eye irritation.

Modern Uses

Today, chia seeds are a dietary supplement often referred to as a "superfood" due to their extraordinary nutritional value. These little seeds, unlike other grains, are a complete protein and are high in omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, and iron. Three and a half ounces of the seeds have been shown to contain as much omega-3 as twenty-eight ounces of salmon, as much calcium as three cups of milk, and as much iron as five cups of raw spinach. The same three and a half ounces of chia seeds also contains an amount of potassium that is equivalent to one and a half bananas, the same amount of vegetable protein as a cup and a half of kidney beans, and as much vitamin C as seven oranges. Chia contains antioxidants at levels nearly three times the antioxidant strength of blueberries, and it contains boron which is a trace mineral that enhances the absorption of calcium into the bones. With a pleasant nutty flavor, chia seeds are easy to incorporate into the diet, making a nutritious snack when simply eaten by the handful, or used as an ingredient in salads, soups, baked goods, and countless other recipes.

Medicinal Benefits of Chia Seeds

Omega-3 fatty acids, which are not produced by the body, are known to have a range of benefits in the maintenance of mental and physical health. These necessary nutrients are vital to the cardiovascular system, helping to maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels as well as reducing inflammation and thinning blood. These benefits of chia seeds are especially important to those who are at heightened risk for heart disease and stroke.

Omega-3, so plentiful in chia seeds, has also shown in many studies to be helpful in the treatment of depression. These studies show that those suffering from depression often have abnormally low levels of essential fatty acids. Supplementing the diet with omega-3 rich foods has produced a marked reduction of the symptoms of depression in many cases.

Chia seeds have shown some promising results for people with type two diabetes as well. Since they contain a generous amount of soluble fiber, chia seeds slow the absorption of sugars and starches into the system, keeping blood glucose levels more stable. The natural anti-inflammatory and blood thinning properties of chia seeds are extremely beneficial to diabetics also, as are the natural support that chia's essential fatty acids lend to blood pressure and cholesterol control.

Chia seeds are beneficial to many dieters as well, their high fiber content making them quite filling. When added as an ingredient in meals, chia seeds add nutritional value and replace higher calorie ingredients. Their mild flavor makes them undetectable in many recipes, giving dieters a convenient method of calorie reduction that does not compromise the flavor of favorite meals.

Essential Dietary Support

While the results of using chia seeds medicinally may vary from one person to another, their nutritional benefits make them a healthy addition to the average diet. Even if you aren't among those who see significant decreases in blood pressure or glucose levels, chia seeds are sure to increase your intake of essential vitamins and minerals. Since very few of us manage to eat a healthy, balanced diet on an everyday basis, chia seeds are worth a try just for nutritional support alone; a quick, easy, and hypoallergenic way to promote good health and avoid vitamin deficiencies.