#SuperPlantofTheWeek: Chia Seeds

Chia Seeds are the small, gray speckled oval shaped seeds from the salvia hispanica plant, a cousin in the mint family tree. These mini-sized seeds may be small but are huge when it comes to the nutrients they provide. Chia seeds can be eaten raw or cooked, with a mild flavor that mixes well with many dishes, such as yogurt, smoothies, salads, oatmeal, rice, soups and more. So, what’s the big deal with this small superfood? 

Chia seeds are packed with protein and omega 3 fatty acids, with loads of antioxidants and carbs to boot. Feeling low energy? Toss a handful of chia seeds onto your meal—it’s equivalent to or better than an energy drink! According to veryhealthy.life, research shows that chia seeds can also help relieve some of the effects of type 2 diabetes. Chia seeds can lessen the resistance to insulin while lowering fat and cholesterol levels. Our speckled besties are high in calcium, which we need to keep our bones in tip-top shape. Just one teaspoon of seeds houses ten percent of our daily intake of calcium. Other members on chia’s bone health team are magnesium, phosphorus and protein. 

Weight loss goals for the year? Here’s how chia seeds can help: Chia seeds are high in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and slows down the absorption of food in your stomach. While chia seeds are chillin’ in your stomach, they expand— which makes you feel fuller. 

If you would like to get more culinarily acquainted with your chia seeds, stay tuned to our blog for recipes from our #plantoftheweek. If not, chuck some chia on your breakfast, lunch or dinner and keep it moving!