Chia seeds are rising in popularity, especially among keto dieters. You can consume these distinctive tiny black seeds in many different ways, and they also provide health benefits. Let’s discuss the nutrition profile of chia seeds, the benefits, and the best ways to include them on the keto diet.
Chia seeds are from the chia plant (Salvia hispanica) native to Mexico and Guatemala. Chia is actually the ancient Mayan word for ‘strength’, and chia seeds were a staple food for the ancient Mayans and Aztecs [1].
Chia seeds provide lots of fiber, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and several essential minerals. Chia seeds are small and ovular with a smooth texture. They range in color from black to brown or white [2].
One ounce (28 grams) of chia seeds contains around 138 calories. Chia seeds are around 6% water, 34% fat, 19% protein, and 46% carbohydrates (of which 83% is fiber) [3].
Around 75% of the fats in chia seeds consist of the omega-3 alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), and about 20% is omega-6 fatty acids [4] [5] [6]. Better than flax seeds, chia seeds are the best-known plant-based source of omega-3 fatty acids.
Gram for gram, keep in mind the omega-3 fatty acids in chia seeds aren’t as potent as those found in fish oil or fish (EPA and DHA). Your body needs to convert the ALA found in chia into the active forms (DHA and EPA) before your body can properly utilize it. This process is often inefficient with most people [7] [8] [9].
Chia seeds give you important minerals like manganese, phosphorus, copper, selenium, and iron. The absorption of some minerals like zinc and iron might be reduced due to the phytic acid content of chia seeds. Phytic acid binds with minerals and inhibits their uptake from foods [10] [11].
In addition to minerals and nutrients, you also get access to beneficial plant compounds like quercetin and chlorogenic acid. Quercetin is a powerful antioxidant that might decrease your risk of osteoporosis, certain forms of cancer, and heart disease [12] [13].
Some animal studies reveal that chia seeds improve blood sugar control and reduce insulin resistance, which could lessen the risk of metabolic syndrome, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. Chia flour and chia seeds have been found to reduce blood pressure in those with elevated levels [14] [15] [16].
Chia seeds make an excellent keto-friendly and gluten-free snack! Tasty and versatile, you can use chia seeds in a variety of ways, such as:
Chia seeds have the ability to absorb liquid and form a gel, so they’re often used as an egg replacement in recipes or to thicken sauces [17] [18]. Clean, dry chia seeds have an extended shelf life because their antioxidants protect the fats from damage [19].
Try these keto recipes featuring chia seeds:
How do you incorporate chia seeds on your keto diet?
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