Chia seeds for heart health
WHEN it comes to safeguarding the health of your heart, there is no nutritional source more potent than Omega-3 fatty acids. Unlike enzymes and amino acids, our body is unable to produce its own supply of Omega3s, making it crucial that we obtain the required intake of this hearthealthy fat through food.
While salmon, tuna, halibut and other deepwater fish rank among the world’s richest sources of Omega-3, this tends to leave vegetarians and vegans in the lurch. But fret not as chia seeds are one of the world’s richest source of plant-based Omega-3s, and it is known to deliver the Omega-3 which is equivalent to 275g of wild salmon in just two tablespoons.
While its high Omega-3 content normalises blood pressure, chia seeds also reduces cholesterol, lessens inflammation and boosts overall cardiac health. It also has more exceptional benefits to offer on the health front which include:
Supporting healthy weight loss The satiety-inducing fibre-rich content of chia seeds is amplified by its ability to absorb up to 12 times their weight in water. Just consume two spoonfuls of chia seeds when hunger strikes and drink a glass of water immediately after, to curb your appetite the healthy way.
Regulating blood sugar Chia seeds’ exceptionally high fibre content mediates glucose production in the body, preventing sudden spikes in insulin and accompanying mood swings and hunger. Its glucose-protective quality makes it the ideal choice for individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Reducing acid reflux and heart burn
Chia seeds are abundant in soluble fibre and mucilage which protect the gastrointestinal tract and prevent the backflow of gastric acid up the oesophageal tract. Just a spoonful is enough to quell the burning sensation characteristic of heartburn.
Improving memory and concentration
In addition to being rich in neuralstrengthening Omega-3, chia seeds are also rich in iron which helps keep the mind sharp and moods in balance.
Extremely high in the essential fatty acid, omega-3, chia seeds are also loaded with antioxidants (more than blueberries), vitamins, minerals (including more calcium than milk), fibre (more than most bran products) and protein, and may deliver additional functional food benefits.
As a nutritional powerhouse, chia seeds have a world of health benefits to offer the whole family. Whether you choose to start your day with chia seeds sprinkled on your cereal, blended into your smoothie or relished on its own, there is no excuse not to include nature’s healthiest bounty in your daily menu.
Country Farm Organic Virgin Chia Seeds is available at all major supermarkets and selected organic stores.