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Ch-Ch-Ch-Chia! Seeds of Plenty

chia seeds

If you have not embraced the fame of chia seeds, you’re not alone. I have a tub of these tiny things sitting in my cabinet but the seal is still in tact. It’s not that I have some deeply in-grained…see what I did there?…dislike for them, it’s just that I have never felt the urge to open them and try them. I’ve seen plenty of smoothie recipe pictures of some thick gelatinous stuff that doesn’t look too enticing.

My grandmother has changed my mind. She asked me about chia seeds and told me about her experience with them (No thick gunky stuff involved) and she advised me to at least try them. So, I’m going for it. Before I start slinging seeds in my salads, I wanted to check out the info. First..are chia seeds Paleo-friendly?

Why chia seeds?

The nutritional benefits of chia include fiber, omega fatty acids, calcium, antioxidants, protein, and more.

…Chia seeds have more omega-3 fatty acids than salmon! Chia is one of the most concentrated sources of omega-3 in any food. It also contains high amounts of omega-6. Everyone needs to consume high amounts of these essential fatty acids in their diet, because these EFAs build new cells and regulate various processes of the body, but our bodies cannot make them internally. They also support heart health and beautiful skin, hair and nails.

They are also high in fiber. They have 11g of fiber per ounce which is almost HALF of your daily recommended intake. An ounce of chia seeds is a LOT of seeds, so I plan to either half that to start or break it down into two servings.

They take “volumetrics” to a whole new level. These things may aid in weight loss simply because they swell in your stomach and you won’t feel hungry as often. As far a nutrient density, I think these seeds have it covered. Basically, you get a lot out of a little seed.

All of these are good and they sound promising, but my grandmother offered another reason. Athletes might benefit from chia seeds because they hold more water/liquid. This is helpful on long-duration events like long distance running. This is a good enough reason for me to at least TRY them.

So, time to get my chia on.