7 Best Reasons Why You Should Start Adding Chia Seeds to Your Water and Regular Diet

The USDA National Nutrient Database shows, chia seeds have no cholesterol and are a great source of "energy, fat, protein, carbohydrates and dietary fiber."

More so, these seeds contain a lot of minerals too, like calcium, potassium, zinc, magnesium, among others. They are known to be rich in vitamins A, C, E and B-vitamins, as well.

As proposed by the American Oil Chemists Society, chia seeds contain incredibly high omega-3 fatty acid concentrations too, which, the organization claimed, have a lot of health benefits.

More importantly, these seeds are very nutritious, and thus, they may be a benefit to numerous health conditions as an inclusion to a healthy diet. Below are 7 of the many reasons why chia seeds are beneficial and why you should start putting them in the water you drink or food you eat.

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MD News Daily - 7 Best Reasons Why You Should Start Adding Chia Seeds to Your Water and Regular Diet

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Chia seeds have no cholesterol and are a great source of ‘energy, fat, protein, carbohydrates and dietary fiber.’

1. Nutritious But Zero-Calorie

According to a 2005 study by a team of researchers from the University of Minnesota, chia seeds are regarded as a superfood because of it high fiber content.

According to a chart from the said study, fiber results in greater satiety, less secretion of insulin and more "short-chain fatty acids.

2. Improves Digestive Health

James Scheer, a world-renown editor and columnist, wrote in the book, "The Magic of Chia," claiming that the high fiber content chia seeds help regulate bowel movements. Specifically, it helps the whole gastrointestinal health.

Following consumption, these seeds create a gel-like substance in the stomach, functioning as a prebiotic and supporting the development and growth of healthy or good bacteria in the gut. Chia seeds make an individual feel full for a long time and thus reduce the urge to overeat.

3. Great Source of Energy

Add one teaspoon of chia seeds into the water bottle or glass and leave it for five minutes or until the seeds soak up the water then, drink it.

These seeds provide stable energy as they have a balanced proportion of fiber, fat and protein. Meaning, they won't give you high blood sugar levels.

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4. Effective for Skin Care

In a study, the Journal of Chromatography A indicates, chia seeds contain "high antioxidant capacity." Such content can support assist the repair of skin cells. They help prevent further impairment, too.

Meanwhile, the omega 3 fatty acids in chia seeds help retain the moisture levels in the skin, avoid dryness, delay aging and appearance of wrinkles. Due to their anti-inflammatory properties, chia seeds are also an effective acne treatment.

5. Rich in Antioxidants

A study in The Annals of General Psychiatry indicates anxiety may have an association with low levels of antioxidants since they reduce the inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which impair the function of the brain.

On top of anxiety reduction, antioxidants are beneficial to the skin too, help the immune system's functions, and may prevent some medical conditions.

6. Improve Dental Health

Consuming a portion of chia seeds every day is recommended for several reasons, and dental is just one of them. These seeds, known for their richness in minerals like zinc, calcium and phosphorus, are a remarkable dietary addition contributing to the preservation of the teeth.

Along with everyday brushing and flossing, chia seeds can help maintain healthy teeth, remove bad breath and contribute to oral care in general.