Health Benefits Of Chia Seeds - Nutritional Value Of Chia Seeds, Nutrition Benefits Of Eating Chia Seeds

Chia seeds, also known as Salvia hispanica, chia pet seed, chia sage, California chia, and California sage, are packed with essential nutrients. They have also been used since ages, as an herbal remedy for many ailments. Due to their energizing qualities, chia seeds were once called "Indian Running Food" as well and the Aztec and Apache warriors took these seeds along with them, to their conquests. Indians used these seeds not just for their strength-giving properties, but also to treat injuries, such as wounds from gunshot. Read on to explore the nutritional value and health benefits of chia seeds.

Nutritional Value Of Chia Seeds

Amount of Chia Seeds: 28 gm

Nutrients	Amount
Basic Components
Protein	4.4 gm
Water	1.4 gm
Ash	1.4 gm
Calories
Total Calories	137
Calories From Carbohydrate	50
Calories From Fat	72
Calories From Protein	15.2
Fats & Fatty Acids
Total Fat	9 gm
Saturated Fat	0.9 gm
Monounsaturated Fat	0.6 gm
Polyunsaturated Fat	6.5 gm
Total Omega-3 Fatty Acids	4915 mg
Total Omega-6 Fatty Acids	1620 mg
Carbohydrates
Total Carbohydrate	12 gm
Dietary Fiber	11 gm
Minerals
Calcium	177 mg
Phosphorus	265 mg
Potassium	44.8 mg
Sodium	5.3 mg
Zinc	1.0 mg
Copper	0.1 mg
Manganese	0.6 mg

Health & Nutrition Benefits Of Eating Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are an excellent source of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, which are essential for regulating those mechanisms of the body that control processes like blood pressure, coagulation of blood and blood fat.
The seeds are rich in B group vitamins, such as vitamin B1 and B3. Vitamin B1 plays a vital role in the metabolism of carbohydrates and amino acids in the body.
High quantity of vitamin E is found in chia seeds, which is extremely important for lipo-metabolism,as it protects the polyunsaturated fatty acids against destruction by oxidation. Vitamin E also restrains cardiac infarction, cancer and Alzheimer.
The seeds are a good source of calcium, which is a crucial mineral for the growth and maintenance of bones and teeth. It is also required for muscle contraction and is an extremely essential nutrient for kids and older people.
A fair quantity of magnesium is also availed through the consumption of chia seeds. Magnesium is one of the minerals that promote normal muscle function and facilitate the metabolism of calcium.
The seeds are a healthy source of phosphorus and zinc, the two essential nutrients that form a vital part of a balanced diet. Zinc works as an activator of several enzymes and hormones in the body.
Iron is yet another extremely important mineral, which is found in considerable amount in chia seeds. This mineral is required by the body for the formation of blood and transportation of oxygen. Chia seeds also contain copper, which is a part of enzymes involved in the metabolism of iron.
The seeds carry two times more potassium than banana and three times more antioxidants than blue berries. Being an excellent source of fiber, chia seeds work to promote weight loss, prevent constipation - while maintaining healthy bowel movement, control blood glucose levels and flush cholesterol from the intestines.

How to Cite

Benefits Of Chia Seeds

Related Articles

See also

More in 'Health & Fitness'