You know those little black seeds that everyone is harping on about? Well they are actually mighty good for you. Don't be fooled by their size, these tiny seeds pack a powerful nutritional punch. Plus they are cheap, easy to store, easy to use and easy to consume. I personally buy them in bulk and store in an airtight jar. Due to their high levels of antioxidants, they last for years without the need of refrigeration. And you can add them to just about anything – smoothies, salads, soups, puddings or cakes.
For smoothies, when gelled with your choice of milk or water and blended with a cup of fresh or frozen fruit, one tablespoon of Chia seeds can add a real thickness to your go-to smoothie - not to mention a dose of healthy fats, fiber, protein, and antioxidants.
Let’s talk about that powerful nutritional punch. You really do get your bang for your buck with these guys. Touted for their energy boosting properties, Chia seeds supply an impressing variety of nutrients in just a small dose. Let’s break it down…
SKIN & AGING – What’s the secret to looking younger? Antioxidants! Found in plants, fruits and SEEDS! Antioxidants enter your blood stream and sweep out any free radicals floating around in there, preventing potential damage to our cells – including your skin cells. And if exfoliating is your thing, I hear they make an excellent body scrub. Just mix with some coffee grounds or some coconut oil. Or so I’ve been told.
DIGESTIVE HEALTH – Let’s talk about our guts. Chia seeds are high in dietary fiber, which if you didn't know, helps promote bowel regularity and the production of a healthy stool. So for you irregular cats out there, a sprinkle of Chia to your morning smoothie could do the trick! Another plus side to the high fiber content is it will help you feel fuller more quickly (these seeds absorb a lot of water) which will expand the stomach and curb hunger!
HEALTHY HEART – I don't want to get too technical here but these seeds are great for the ticker. Chia seeds have been proven to reverse inflammation, regulate cholesterol and lower blood pressure – all leading to a happy heart. Without these stresses, someone would be less likely to develop atherosclerosis, which in layman’s terms means less likely to develop heart failure or have a stroke.
Jonny
