A staple of Mayan and Aztec diets for centuries, chia means 'strength' in the Mayan language. The seeds of this plant were known as "runner's food" because runners and warriors consumed these seeds as "fuel" when traveling long distances or during battle.

Today, chia seeds are attracting everyone's attention due to their benefits in maintaining a healthy body. Drawing attention as a rich nutrient, chia seeds are included in daily nutrition by coming to the forefront with their antioxidant properties.

What is Chia Seed?

The reason why chia seeds are so beneficial is that they are rich in fiber, omega-3 fats, protein, vitamins and minerals. It is a beneficial source of plant protein and provides a number of amino acids, especially for vegetarian and vegan diets. Fat is digested relatively slowly due to its protein and fiber composition. This means it provides a long and slow release of energy to keep blood sugar levels stable.

25 g of chia seeds contain about 9 g of fiber. The recommended amount of fiber to be consumed daily is 30 grams. Therefore, 25 g of seeds every day meets most of the daily requirement.

The content of 100 grams of Chia seeds is as follows;

Calories: 486
Fat: 31 g
Saturated Fat: 3.3 g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 24 g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.3 g
Trans Fat: 0.1 g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 16mg
Potassium: 407 mg
Carbs: 42g
Dietary Fiber: 34 g
Sugars: 0 g
Protein: 16
Calcium: 631mg
Iron: 7.7mg
Magnesium: 335mg

Health Benefits of Chia Seeds

New research shows that the benefits of chia seeds are much more than we think.

• Chia seeds help to make the skin healthier while reducing the signs of aging.
• It supports the heart and digestive system.
• Thanks to the calcium it contains, it strengthens the bones.
• Since it is a plant-based protein source, it contributes to muscle development and formation.
• It can be used in the treatment of diabetes.
• It helps the body balance insulin levels.
• It regulates bowel movements. It also contributes to the growth of prebiotics in the intestines.
• It helps you get hungry more difficult by giving a feeling of fullness.
• It reduces adipose tissue.
• Chia seeds contain phenolic compounds with antioxidant properties such as chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, quercetin and campherol. Camperol is effective against various types of cancer, including breast cancer, liver cancer, brain cancer, colon cancer, and more.