JOIN USAre you looking for a super food that can serve you the goodness of omega 3 fatty acids, calcium, zinc, magnesium, antioxidants, protein, carbohydrates, fibre, vitamins B1, B2, B3 and E in every serving? Look no further than chia seeds, a nutritional super food that can be sprinkled on your rice dishes or mixed into beverages and baked foods, without worrying about any side effects.
Let's take a look at how these tiny seeds are beneficial to the body:
* Aids digestion: Chia seeds are easy to digest and help in regularising bowel movement. Rich in healthy fats and fibre content, chia can cure constipation. Eating chia seeds can also make a person feel full, as they absorb a considerable amount of water and expand in the stomach when consumed.
* Fights ageing: According to a study, chia seeds curb up to 70% of free radical activity, as they contain natural phenolic concentration. Chia seeds can prevent skin cell damage, UV damage and promote repair.
* Boosts immunity: Chia seeds are one of the healthiest foods that supply a lot of energy and endurance to the body. They can be eaten unprocessed as well to build immunity.
* Cuts down belly fat: Consuming chia seeds everyday increases the body's metabolic rate and burns belly fat effectively. Chia seeds reduce visceral adipose tissue, a belly fat tissue that affects metabolism and leads to obesity.
* Improves bone strength: High in calcium content, consuming 1-2 teaspoons of chia seeds everyday can make your bones stronger. Chia contains boron, which helps digest the calcium, magnesium, manganese and phosphorus for bone growth.
* Lowers cancer risk: Chia seeds can cut down the risk of breast and cervical cancers. Chia contains alpha lipoic acid that limits the growth of cancer cells in the breasts and cervix.
(The author is nutrition and wellness expert, Oriflame India)