Superfood Spotlight: The many benefits of chia seeds

WHAT IS CHIA?

Native to South America, this herb was once widely cultivated by the Aztecs and Mayans. Today in Mexico, Guatemala and Nicaragua, the small brown seeds are consumed regularly – soaked in water with a little sugar and lemon to create a refreshing and energy-boosting drink. In recent years, chia seeds have attracted interest from nutritionists and are currently a hit with health-seeking consumers worldwide.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF CHIA SEEDS

Chia seeds owe their reputation as a “superfood” to their protein content – 20% more than wheat, oats, barley and amaranth. The seeds also contain minerals, “especially calcium, phosphorus, manganese and magnesium,” according to Élodie Cavalier, wellness and detox coach of justabetterme.com. Rich in antioxidants (including quercetin), chia contains fibres and omega-3.

Chia seeds contain about 5% soluble fibre – they swell in water or milk, so eating a porridge made with chia seeds will help regulate appetite and metabolism, making them an ally when it comes to your weight loss goals. They also facilitate digestion and transit, helping to fight against diabetes and bad cholesterol, increasing “good” cholesterol levels and reducing inflammation.

TIPS FROM THE COACH

In your diet, alternate chia seeds (for calcium and fibre) with hemp seeds (for protein and magnesium) and flax seeds (for omega-3 and potassium). These can be eaten by sprinkling a teaspoon in your morning breakfast smoothies, or in a salad.

Because chia seeds do not have much of a taste, you can soak them in milk to make a pudding. “For 4 people, soak 5 tablespoons of chia seeds in 500ml of almond milk for 8 hours. Enjoy with a little honey, “says Cavalier Élodie.

Isabelle Soing