How to take chia seeds, in what quantity, and their properties

Chia seeds are one of those superfoods that everyone talks about, but paradoxically it is never very clear how to take them. And it is that these little seeds are very versatile and beneficial, but only when you know how to consume them and in what quantities.

Taking chia seeds means enjoying all the properties and benefits they have for health, from their antioxidant power to their analgesic property, of course including their ability to make you lose weight.

What they are and what they are for

Chia seeds are the seeds from a plant native to America, the Chia (Salvia Hispanica). The benefits and properties of chia have been known for hundreds of years. Therefore, the fame of this food is so widespread, being known worldwide and consumed by many athletes and models who want to lead a healthy life or follow a certain diet.

The seeds of this plant are very rich in nutrients of vital importance for your body and health, such as carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, fiber or even high biological value proteins.

But without a doubt, a fundamental characteristic of these seeds is that they are a source of omega 3 fatty acids of plant origin, very difficult to find.

How to take chia seeds

To make the most of the properties and benefits of chia, it is necessary to know how these seeds can be taken. Here we give you a few ideas to prepare this superfood!

Smoothies

Smoothies are one of the best options you have when it comes to taking foods that by themselves are not very appetizing, as can happen with chia seeds.

The idea is to add them to the smoothies you like the most, such as a strawberry and banana one or a blueberry and red fruit one. It does not matter what flavor it is, the important thing is the amount you use.

If you don't want your favorite smoothie to turn into a seed smoothie, it is better to add only 25 grams of chia (which equals two tablespoons).

Yogurts

Many people mix yogurts with other foods, such as nuts. Are you one of those? Whether you are or not, one of the best ways to increase your chia intake in your diet is to add a small spoonful of these seeds to the yogurt.

Salads

If you like to take care of yourself, you surely love salads. They are a very versatile dish that you can modify in a thousand different ways, adding hundreds of ingredients or using only the essentials.

No matter what your secret salad recipe is, a spoonful of chia seeds on it will not be noticeable and will multiply its biological and nutritional value.

Sauces

Store-bought sauces are not bad, but without a doubt the best option for your health is to make them at home. If you dare, you can add some chia seeds that, without changing the flavor or texture, will give it that fit touch that every sauce needs.

Bread and cakes

Is there anything more delicious than freshly made homemade bread? If you are one of those who make your own bread you have surely already started adding more ingredients than necessary, such as walnuts or raisins.

Why not a little chia? Also, you can combine it with other seeds, such as flax or even oats, achieving a real seed bread.

Water with lemon and chia

Without a doubt, one of the most common ways to take chia is a glass of water with lemon juice with a teaspoon of these seeds. This way the body is purified, eliminating many toxins and preparing it for a new day.

Chia gel

Many people make a kind of gel or porridge with these seeds. This is done by soaking the chia with a little water. After a few hours in the fridge you will have this chia gel ready.

This happens because chia has a great capacity to absorb water, so when you take it, it will hydrate you a lot. How can you take it? Well, if you are a fan of the taste of chia you can eat it directly and if not, you can mix it with a fruit salad, a yogurt, a salad or other foods included in your diet.

Precautions and contraindications when consuming chia seeds

Taking chia besides being good for health and helping you maintain a balanced diet, can have some side effects. There are not many contraindications of chia, but it is better to respect the existing ones.

Almost everyone can consume it and if you have doubts it is better to consult your doctor (for example, diabetics or people who are taking some medication).

Also, it is not recommended to take more than 25 grams daily of chia seeds, due to their high fiber content.