All about chia: the seed of the moment
Do you know chia? The seed, which is giving the talk, is the new ally of health, being a source of various nutrients, and is a weapon for weight loss. Promising characteristics of a food that has recently taken over Brazil. For chia is really powerful.
Although it seems to be a revolutionary novelty, chia has long been consumed in countries such as Mexico and Guatemala, where the plant from which it is derived: Salvia Hispica originates.
The admiration for the power of these seeds is millennial, and the Inca and Mayan civilizations already consumed them and considered them very potent, because they kept their warriors fed (only with them) and with more physical resistance in several days of battle. The name "chia" even means "strength" and in the age of ancient civilizations, these little seeds could be worth even more than gold.
Several benefits
In addition to providing healthy weight loss, chia also provides many nutrients and fiber. Its slimming power is due to the satiety it provides, because its seeds are mucilaginous and, when in contact with water, form a gel that leaves a longer feeling of satisfaction in the stomach. This way you get satisfied faster and consume smaller portions at meals.
The chia also makes it possible to "cleanse" the body's toxins through the action of its fibers in the gut. Therefore, when consuming the seeds, always drink plenty of water to maintain the gel hydration that will provide this benefit.
The satiety that chia provides is also produced by its anti-inflammatory ability, which is due to the omega 3 present in the grain. This substance fights the inflammatory process that causes fat accumulation and uncontrolled hunger. Omega 3 present in chia is also a great ally to lower the propensity of cardiovascular disease, as well as lowering cholesterol and triglyceride level.
According to health experts, 100 grams of chia seed are eight times more omega-3 than an average piece of salmon and much higher than flax seed.
In addition to this very important nutrient for health, chia also has protein content, has antioxidant power and contains high levels of magnesium, potassium and calcium. These minerals, along with the other benefits of chia, help reduce abdominal fat and provide more stamina and energy.
Chia also has a high concentration of iron, being a great option for those who are deficient in this mineral in their blood. The content is still three times higher than that found in spinach.
The good seed also controls blood glucose, reducing the risk of diabetes. It also favors the formation of bone tissues, prevents aging and improves immunity.
How to consume
Because it has almost no taste, chia can be consumed mixed in water, yogurt, fruit, vitamins and even savory options such as soups and breads. It can be found in three different forms out there: in seeds, oil or flour.
To provide satiety and enjoy all the slimming and fat reducing effect that chia has, it is recommended to consume its seeds mixed with water or juice 30 minutes before main meals.
One way to prepare it is to place a shallow tablespoon in a glass of liquid, letting it sit for a few minutes. Thus, this content becomes a gel, which can be consumed more easily.
Flour can also be used in the same way for a weight loss diet.
To only enrich your diet, it can be used in juices, vitamins, cakes, breads, fruit salads and other options without losing its nutritional properties.
The chia in oil version can be used as olive oil to season salads. However, this form does not contain the fibers, which are of great importance for bowel function. However, it is also nutritious.
Remember that chia has a high caloric value, so do not overdo it. Follow the recommended amount, which is a maximum of two tablespoons per day. Chia seeds can be found at health food stores.
To get the most out of chia, have a balanced diet, play sports and drink plenty of water.
