Mom Knows Best! Add Chia Seeds to Your Diet!
By Donna Stark
SMH. LOL. These are the shortened versions of "shaking my head" and "laughing out loud" and I never imagined I would write them as often as I do about my mom. My mom has a way of giving my family moments that leave us questioning her sanity ... like the time when she accidentally mistook her cat's medication for her own. I'm happy to tell you she survived that day, but I am letting you know this because I want you to understand why I felt it necessary to question her behavior one afternoon. You see, I saw her sprinkling little black beads in her iced tea, and to me, it looked a little suspicious. But within seconds of her telling me what it was, I was finally able to let out a sigh of relief. She wasn't doing anything wrong, she was simply sprinkling chia seeds into her tea that day, and as unconventional as her delivery was, the consumption of chia seeds is certainly not unconventional. In fact, it's actually becoming more common and popular across the world.
Health Benefits of Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are one of those superfoods that you have been hearing so much about the past couple of years, and even though they are super tiny, they certainly pack a dramatic punch when it comes to your overall health and wellness. Take a look.
- Fiber - Aids in digestion and helps with weight loss
- Omega-3's - Supports a healthy brain and reduces inflammation
- Antioxidants - Fights against free radicals which contribute to aging and certain types of cancer
- Minerals - Strengthens bones and teeth, helps to reduce the risk of osteoporosis
- Protein - Supports vegan and vegetarian diets by offering a plant-based protein
Add Them to Your Diet
In addition to being rich in nutrients, omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and fiber, chia seeds are also extremely simple to prepare. These tiny seeds can be mixed into smoothies, tossed into salads, and apparently, sprinkled on top of iced tea, but no matter how you consume them, the impact on your health is significant. Here are some more suggestions on how to incorporate them into your diet.
- Mix into yogurt or smoothies
- Sprinkle on cereal, oatmeal, or a salad
- Make chia pudding
- Toss in your fruit-infused water
- Bake into bread and muffins
- Add to your pancake and waffle mix
- Incorporate into your meatloaf or burgers
Moms Know Best
I would say, "Be like my mom," but I certainly don't want you to take your pet's medicine before you start your day. Instead, I am just going to suggest that you throw some chia seeds into your next bowl of oatmeal and start adding them to your diet more and more as the days pass by. You certainly won't regret it!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Renton, Wash.