Flax seeds and Chia seeds are some of the healthiest foods on the planet and are loaded with nutrients. In this article, I will look at some of the top benefits of Chia seeds and flax seeds.
Chia seeds
The health benefits of these very tiny black seeds for your body and brain cannot be underestimated. They are rich in fiber, protein, fat, calcium, manganese, magnesium, and phosphorous, and contain a decent amount of potassium, zinc, Niacin, Thiamine, and Vitamin B2.
Benefits of Chia seeds
- The high amounts of antioxidants in Chia seeds make it very useful in fighting free radicals, which are known to damage cells and lead to cancer and aging. The high amounts of antioxidants help protect the delicate fats in the seeds from rancidity.
- They contain about 14 percent of protein by weight and contain a good balance of the essential amino acids. It is, therefore, an excellent protein source, especially for vegetarians.
- Most of the carbohydrates in Chia seeds are fiber, which is not digested by the body, thus it does not raise blood sugar, making Chia seeds a low-carbohydrate food. They also absorb 10-12 times their weight in water, become gel-like and expand in the stomach, keeping you full for a longer time, and may be useful in weight loss.
- They have higher amounts of omega-3 fatty acids than salmon. However, the omega-3s are in the form of Alpha-linoleic acid (ALA), which may not be as beneficial because it must convert to active forms before the body can be useful to the body, which the human body does not do very effectively.
- Chia seeds are high in calcium, phosphorous, and magnesium, which are essential for bone health.
- A study among type 2 diabetics showed that Chia seeds can significantly lower blood pressure
Flax seeds
Flax seeds, also known as linseeds, have been consumed as food for thousands of years They are small, brown seeds which are very rich in nutrients.
Flax seeds are rich in fiber, protein, Vitamin B1, manganese, magnesium, phosphorous, and selenium. They also contain decent amounts of iron, vitamin B6, copper, zinc, potassium, and iron.
Benefits of flax seeds
- The seeds are very rich in fiber but very low in carbohydrates. This prevents the food from emptying too quickly into the small intestines, thus increasing nutrient absorption. This is also good for detoxification, fat loss and for reduction of sugar cravings.
- Flax seeds benefit the skin and hair by providing essential fats and B-vitamins which help in reducing flakiness and dryness. It is also helpful in improving the signs of rosacea, eczema, and acne
- The seeds are rich in fiber and healthy fats, leaving you full for longer, meaning a lower calorie intake per day which will eventually lead to weight loss.
- Flax seeds in the diet can naturally lower the blood cholesterol levels as a result of the soluble fiber that traps bile, which is made from cholesterol in the gall bladder. The bile is then excreted, forcing the body to produce more, thus using up the excess cholesterol in the blood.
- They contain antioxidants, which are useful for cellular health, hormone balance and anti-aging. This is also helpful in fighting cancer.
- They contain ALA, which helps promote digestive health by protecting and maintaining the gut, making it very important for people suffering from Crohn’s disease as it reduces gut inflammation
