Why chia seeds are good for the body

2024 Author: James Gerald | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 14:00

Chia, or Spanish sage, is an annual plant, the seeds of which are rich in nutrients, due to which they are used to treat various diseases. Before using the product as a medicine, it is necessary to carefully study how chia seeds are useful for the body, what are the indications and contraindications.

The birthplace of chia

Guatemala, South and Central Mexico are considered the birthplace of Spanish sage. A little later, it began to be cultivated in Australia and some countries in South America.

How do they look

Chia reaches a height of 1 meter. On a branched stem, there are small leaves no more than 8 cm long, about 5 cm wide. Inflorescences are white or blue-violet in color. Small seeds (1 mm) are oval in shape, the surface is slightly embossed.

Have a different color:

• White;
• black;
• Brown;
• Gray.

At the same time, only white and black grains are of value, seeds of other shades are considered immature.

Useful properties and composition

White chia seeds are the most beneficial. Most often they are used for cardiovascular diseases and to stabilize hormonal levels. They contain the following beneficial substances:

• molybdenum;
• phosphorus;
• zinc;
• potassium;
• manganese;
• copper;
• iron;
• vitamins PP, K, C, B1, B2, A;
• cellulose;
• omega-3 and 6 fatty acids.

Black Spanish sage seeds have about the same composition, but at a much lower concentration. Most often they are used to normalize blood glucose.

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Due to their high energy value, rich chemical composition and greater benefits, white chia grains are much less common and are slightly more expensive than black ones.

Benefits of seeds

Due to the high concentration of micro-, macronutrients and vitamins, chia seeds can have a positive effect on human health. Eating them regularly will help normalize the general condition of the body and cope with a large number of diseases.

Before you start using it, it is important to know how chia seeds are good for the body. The substances included in their composition have the following properties:

• normalize brain function;
• improve concentration and memory;
• increase energy levels and endurance;
• help to cope with problems in the muscular and skeletal systems;
• stabilize blood pressure;
• strengthen blood vessels and normalize the work of the heart;
• reduce blood cholesterol levels;
• normalize appetite;
• accelerate the removal of toxic substances from the body;
• strengthen the immune system.

Regular consumption of Spanish sage seeds significantly improves health and increases the body's resistance to infectious diseases.

For women

Chia seeds are especially beneficial for women. They can significantly improve hormonal levels, which makes it easier to endure menstruation and feel better during menopause. Thanks to their high content of antioxidants, the grains of this plant help to maintain youthful skin and healthy hair.

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For men

For men, Spanish sage seeds will help restore potency, protect against the development of prostatitis and adenoma. Under high physical activity, the grains of this plant will increase endurance and help to cope with fatigue.

For pregnant women and during lactation

There are no particular contraindications for the use of chia seeds during these periods, but you must first consult your doctor. Thanks to their rich chemical composition, they help support the body during pregnancy and cope with emotional stress after childbirth. During lactation, Spanish sage seeds can improve milk production and significantly increase its fat content.

For kids

Chia seeds should be introduced into the child's diet with caution. Pediatricians recommend adding exotic foods to babies' menus only after three years. It is strictly forbidden to give them to children with allergies, including sesame seeds. The beneficial substances of seeds stimulate the development of all body systems and increase its resistance to various diseases.

Contraindications and side effects

Like any product, chia seeds have a number of contraindications and, in some cases, may have side effects. It is forbidden to use these grains with a high content of triglycerol in the blood, gastritis and allergies.

It is not recommended to consume Spanish sage seeds for more than 12 weeks, it is advisable to take a break of at least a month between courses.

If the norm is exceeded, the following side effects may occur:

• problems with the gastrointestinal tract - increased gas production, bloating, diarrhea, obstruction in the esophagus (in the case of eating dry grains);
• opening of bleeding due to a decrease in blood viscosity;
• drop in blood pressure;
• negative impact on the action of drugs that regulate blood sugar levels;
• allergic reaction.

To avoid side effects, be sure to consult your doctor before consuming chia seeds.

Treatment

Spanish sage seeds are used as a complex therapy in the treatment of many diseases. Various medicinal and prophylactic agents can be prepared from them.

Diabetes

Scientists have proven that chia seeds are able to maintain blood glucose levels at normal levels and protect against spikes. In this case, it is imperative to observe the daily dose, which is 37 g. The course of therapy is 12 weeks.

The glycemic index of Spanish sage seeds is 30 units per 100 g of product.

Pancreatitis

Chia seeds have a beneficial effect on the pancreas, reduce inflammation and improve its function. To relieve the symptoms of pancreatitis, it is necessary to consume grains within 1 month, 30 g no more than 3 times a day. If necessary, after a break of 2-3 weeks, the therapy can be repeated.

Bowel dysfunction

Eating Spanish sage seeds will help improve intestinal motility, relieve constipation and normalize stool. The course of treatment is 3 weeks for 1-2 tsp. per day. To get rid of constipation, you need to eat 2 tsp. seeds per day, be sure to drink them with one glass of still water.

Gout

In this disease, chia seeds help to restore the metabolism in the joints and nearby tissues, which greatly facilitates the patient's condition. In this case, it is imperative to follow a special diet, which includes cereals, yoghurts, vegetables and fruits.

Application in cosmetology

High in nutrients, including antioxidants, chia seeds can be used to support healthy skin and hair.

Mask for the face

This tool has several positive effects on the skin at once - rejuvenating, tightening, smoothing. Mode of application:

1. Pour 3 tbsp. l. grains 100 ml of warm water.
2. Insist 15 minutes.
3. Add 1 tsp. honey.
4. Apply for 10 minutes on previously cleansed face and décolleté.

With regular use, the oval of the face is tightened, the skin becomes firmer and smoother.

Scrub

The grains help to delicately remove dead skin particles, at the same time evening out its tone and saturating it with useful microelements. Mode of application:

1. Grind with a blender half of one apple and 2 tbsp. l. chia seeds.
2. Add some water and 2 tbsp. l. honey.
3. Apply to damp skin and massage in circular motions.

This product is ideal for oily skin prone to acne.

Hair Care Product

You can restore the health of your hair both by eating chia seeds and using them as part of a cosmetic mask. Mode of application:

1. Pour 4 tbsp. l. grains of 500 ml of warm water.
2. Insist for at least 10 minutes.
3. Mix.
4. Put in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
5. Pour in 3 tbsp. l. lemon juice.
6. Apply to scalp and hair for 10 minutes.
7. Wash off with warm water without using shampoo.

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This mask helps to restore silkiness and shine to hair, strengthen its roots, and relieve inflammation.

Slimming

Nutritionists recommend using Spanish sage grains as a dietary aid. The unique fiber of the seeds is able to rid the body of toxic substances and absorb excess moisture.

It is important to follow a number of recommendations during this:

• it is advisable to add a gel made from grains to salads made from fresh vegetables or fruits;
• the daily rate is no more than 2 tbsp. l.;
• dry seeds must be poured with 1 glass of still water;
• eating grains is best before exercise.

Since chia seeds have a neutral taste, they can be added to absolutely any dish without fear of spoiling their taste.

Outcomes

Chia seeds, or Spanish sage, are known for their ability to have a positive effect on all body systems. A big plus is a neutral taste and a minimum number of contraindications. Chia seeds are gaining more and more popularity among fans of a healthy lifestyle. This is due to their rich chemical composition and great benefits. Before use, it is important not only to consult with a specialist, but also to carefully study the beneficial properties and contraindications.