Chia Seed Recipes - Over 70 Mouth-Watering Recipes for Weight Loss, Energy, and Fantastic Health
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The information contained in this book is for informational purposes only. Each medical case is unique, therefore you should use proper discretion, in consultation with a medical professional, before undertaking any advice described in this book. The author and publisher disclaim responsibility for any adverse effects that may results from the use or application of the information contained in this book.
Are Chia Seeds True Super Food?
There is a claim that chia seeds are the highest source of omega-3 in the world, but there seems to be a bit of confusion associated with that belief. The reason being, while chia seeds on a weight comparison basis contain more omega-3 than the deep water Atlantic salmon, the omega-3 type contained is different. Marine sources contain abundant EPA and DHA. Plant sources are rich in ALA, which need to be converted to the other two mentioned via mechanisms in the body. It is also known that EPA and DHA are the more important two with regards to physiological function.
Chia seeds are rich in calcium they are perhaps the richest non-dairy source of calcium available to man. Again, it is touted as being the highest source in the world, but this assumption is usually not warranted; the reason being that the units being compared are completely different. But considering calcium content on a caloric basis, milk would be the richest source.
Chia seeds are a great addition to any food - this fact has been time tested, and holds true. Their near tasteless flavour, add great room for addition to virtually any food, with a new and emerging trend developing for chia recipes. In addition, they ensure healthy serving suggestions. Adding to this fact, is their calorie content; approximately 140 calories/ounce, which can be used when trying to lose weight when used appropriately.
Chia seeds add power to vegan diets - vegetarians are the group of people most likely to be deficient in nutrients, especially fat soluble vitamins. Added to the increased protein requirements for this group, chia seeds quite aptly fill the gap created by these absences.
Chia seeds encourage healthy weight maintenance - because of the presence of soluble fiber in chia seeds, they form gels readily when introduced to liquids/moisture. When this gel form of chia is consumed, it aids in a feeling of satisfaction which suppresses the appetite. Chia seeds taken prior to a workout have proven to help delay fatigue and maintain performance levels.
Another not so obvious consideration that m ust be made is the availability of the food and its relative cost - a super food is nothing without consumption by the masses. The good news however, is that chia seeds cost next to nothing, comparing to their great benefits.
To fully maximize these benefits and ensure maximum efficacy of your chia seeds, it is important to consume them in their raw unadulterated form. By doing this, you ensure you are getting all the benefits of the many phytonutrients as well as the omega-3 which may be broken down by exposure to heat. It is good to also note that grinding the seeds is an acceptable practice, since this does not cause degradation of the active principles, but rather may make them more readily available.
Benefits
Today, many research studies have been done to prove the health benefits of chia seeds. We have learned many new things about these seeds. One of the best things about these seeds is that they are extremely nutritious, containing around 22% of protein, 35% of healthy fats (Omega 3, Omega 6), and around 25% of dietary fiber. Not only that, they also contain plenty of minerals and vitamins a lot of calcium, potassium, and iron is found in these seeds.
These little seeds help you fight against many diseases and keep the immune system strong by helping the body to absorb fat soluble vitamins.
Many people use these seeds to provide relief from arthritis or diabetes (by absorbing sugar), decrease blood pressure, help with acid reflux, or just improve the general cardiac health.
Chia seeds can also be used by people who would like to lose weight, cleanse their colon, and get rid of the toxins. These seeds can also be used to tone your muscles. Some research shows that it can also improve your mental performance and allow you to have better rest during the night.
Chia seeds can offer plenty of health benefits, but as with any other supplement, it should be used in normal quantities, some side effects are found if they are used in extremely large quantities such as severe decrease in blood pressure. Chia seeds are easy to digest (easier than flax seeds) and are gluten and cholesterol free. The possible benefits of chia seeds are as follows:
- Increases energy levels
- Increases endurance levels
- Helps with weight loss
- Normalises blood sugar levels
- Cleanses the colon
- Gets rid of the toxins
- Prolongs hydration
- Reduce inflammation
- Helps tone muscles
- Helps to lower the blood pressure
- Improves mental performance
- Improves night rest and mood
- Lowers the risk of heart diseases
- Improves overall health
- Lowers cholesterol
- Absorbs extra acid, helping to get rid of acid reflux
- Helps thyroid conditions
- Helps IBS
- Helps celiac disease
Summary of the Benefits
Blood glucose control chia seeds accomplish effective blood sugar control via a multi-factorial approach. For one, chia seeds are full of both soluble and insoluble fiber, as well as being a complex carbohydrate, which results in a slow steady release of sugar into the blood, leading to prevention of blood glucose spikes and directly suppressing the effects of insulin. One problem of constant insulin release is resistance, which translates to loss of potency of it and subsequent hyperinsulinemia. This is a common predisposing factor to the development of diabetes.
Digestive aid the insoluble fiber component of the chia seeds outer layer aids in prevention of constipation by helping food and waste material pass along the digestive and intestinal tracts, acting as a shuttle. This property may also help alleviate cases of irritable bowel syndrome, extending its possible repertoire of uses.
Powerful nutritional supplement chia seeds are crammed with a massive array of vitamins and minerals, which help to supplement the daily diet. Besides being known for being extensively rich in omega-3 and calcium, they are also laden with much phosphorus and zinc, which support bone health. Chia seeds may also help alleviate anaemic states by supplying generous iron, necessary for production of red blood cells.
Promotes heart health - again, heart support is achieved via a multi-pronged approach. For one, chia has now been proven to be very effective in reducing hypertensive states. Secondly, by preventing/controlling diabetes, you effectively take a nail out the coffin, since diabetic states are commonly associated with increased incidence of heart issues. And finally, the supply of abundant omega-3, in the form of alpha linoleic acid (ALA), helps to strengthen heart wall integrity, as well as being a good natural remedy for decreasing high cholesterol levels (especially the triglyceride content).