Did you know that chia seeds were once used as legal tender by the Aztecs? Conquered nations would pay tribute to their rulers with chia seeds, with historical records indicating that over 4,000 tons were paid annually to the Aztec Empire. This highlights not only their nutritional value but also their cultural significance!
Read on to learn more about this nutrient powerhouse that used to be worth more than gold!
7 Science-Backed Benefits of Chia Seeds
1. High in Fiber:
Chia seeds are renowned for their rich dietary fiber content, constituting approximately 25-40% of their composition. This fiber content aids in digestion, fosters satiety, and assists in regulating blood sugar levels.
2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids:
Chia seeds boast a bounty of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid crucial for heart health and cognitive function.
3. Protein Powerhouse:
Chia seeds also offer a moderate protein content, making them an excellent choice for those seeking plant-based protein alternatives.
4. Abundant Antioxidants:
Loaded with antioxidants like quercetin, chlorogenic acid, and caffeic acid, chia seeds provide cellular protection against oxidative stress.
5. Supportive of Bone Health:
Chia seeds contain essential minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium, which contribute to maintaining strong bones.
6. Weight Management:
Research has shown that chia seeds can promote weight loss by reducing appetite and calorie intake, thanks to their high fiber content.
7. Blood Sugar Regulation:
Chia seeds, with their low glycemic index, have been linked to improved blood sugar control, making them a valuable addition to the diet, especially for individuals with type 2 diabetes.
The Role of Chia Protein in Nourish Superfood Snack Products
At Nourish, we recognize the unparalleled nutritional value of chia seeds, particularly their protein content. That's why chia protein serves as a core ingredient in our superfood snack products.
1. Plant-Based Protein: Chia protein is an excellent source of plant-based protein, a fact that resonates with our commitment to providing wholesome and sustainable nutrition options. It offers a valuable protein alternative, especially for those following vegetarian or vegan diets, as highlighted by research in the "British Journal of Nutrition".
2. Satiety and Energy: The protein content in chia seeds, including chia protein, contributes to a feeling of fullness and sustained energy. This aligns perfectly with our mission to create snacks that not only taste great but also keep you energized throughout the day.
3. Nutrient-Rich Snacking: By incorporating chia protein into our snacks, we ensure that you're not only satisfying your taste buds but also providing your body with essential nutrients such as omega-3s, antioxidants, and bone-strengthening minerals.
4. Weight Management Support: Chia protein's role in promoting satiety aligns with our commitment to helping you manage your weight effectively. Nourish's superfood snack products can be a valuable addition to a balanced diet aimed at achieving your health and wellness goals.
5. Sustainability: Despite the incredible benefits of chia protein, it is currently a by-product of cold-pressed chia oil. Thus, by using this superfood, we are eliminating superfood waste!
Conclusion:
Chia seeds are undeniably a nutritional powerhouse, offering a multitude of health benefits, including their rich protein content. Incorporating them into your diet is easy! Just sprinkle them on your foods, or make chia pudding! Do not have time to soak your seeds overnight to make the pudding? Nourish's instant superfood chia pudding mixes are coming soon! They were developed by a PhD and Nutrition Coach contain 22g of protein, 6g of fiber, are USDA organic, and only contain ingredients that are good for you.
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How To Enjoy Chia Seeds
Ready to pounce on these valuable seeds? Check out our recipes blogs for easy ways to incorporate chia seeds to your diet: from our superfood chia protein puddings, to keto chia protein balls, to delicious chia protein pancakes!
If you try any of these recipes, be sure to tag us at @Nourishsnackfoods on social!
References
De Lorgeril, M., et al. "Alpha-linolenic acid in the prevention and treatment of coronary heart disease." European Heart Journal Supplements 3.suppl_D (2001): D26-D32.
De Souza Ferreira, Cynthia, et al. "Effect of chia seed (Salvia hispanica L.) consumption on cardiovascular risk factors in humans: a systematic review." Nutricion hospitalaria 32.5 (2015): 1909-1918.
Ferreira, Cynthia de Souza, et al. "Effect of chia seed (Salvia hispanica L) consumption on cardiovascular risk factors in humans: a systematic review." Nutr. hosp (2015): 1909-1918.
Knez Hrnčič, Maša, et al. "Chia Seeds (Salvia hispanica L.): an overview—phytochemical profile, isolation methods, and application." Molecules 25.1 (2019): 11.
Kim, Shana J., et al. "Effects of dietary pulse consumption on body weight: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials." The American journal of clinical nutrition 103.5 (2016): 1213-1223.
Teoh, Siew Li, et al. "Clinical evidence on dietary supplementation with chia seed (Salvia hispanica L.): a systematic review and meta-analysis." Nutrition reviews 76.4 (2018): 219-242.
Vuksan, V., et al. "Salba-chia (Salvia hispanica L.) in the treatment of overweight and obese patients with type 2 diabetes: A double-blind randomized controlled trial." Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases 27.2 (2017): 138-146.
