Whilst many people are probably unaware of what a chia plant is – it has nonetheless become a very popular means of maintaining a healthy diet and reducing the risk of heart disease.
People have actually used the plant for thousands of years, and it is believed that ancient Aztec cultures used it not only as an essential part of their daily diets, but also as a means of currency. The plants were used to boost energy-levels and stamina, and consumed in small quantities – roughly equivalent to a teaspoon. Once seeds from the plants are added to water – a thick, gel-like substance is formed, that is highly-rich in natural fibres. This can have many positive benefits on your health and wellbeing such as the regulation of appetite, the maintenance of frequent bowel-movements and the balancing of electrolytes – which are essential to retaining adequate hydration in your body. The seeds also promote bone-health as they are packed with calcium deposits.
Recently, scientists in Canada, impressed by the high levels of fibre, alpha-linolenic acid and minerals in the plant, have conducted research in order to foster a greater understanding of the health-benefits that chia can produce. During a three month study, researchers assessed the impact of seeds from the plant on a sample of respondents suffering from diabetes – feeding 21 patients with approximately 40 grams of chia-seeds or wheat-bran. By the end of the study, the researchers concluded that eating chia-seeds reduced blood pressure and other causes of heart disease by introducing high-levels of omega 3, fatty-acids to the body.
If you fancy giving chia seeds a go, they can be integrated into your diet and lifestyle relatively simply, by adding the seeds to a wide range of foodstuffs, including: cereal, oatmeal, salads, eggs, smoothies and even cake-mix.
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