Have you heard about the nutritional value of chia seeds?! Surely after reading them you will definitely start consuming them

We all have that friend who always defends that 'thesis' about how chia seeds have changed her life. Although these seeds may seem small, they are mostly loaded with high levels of omega 3, protein and even fiber. Read on for some other benefits of chia seeds. 

Although chia seeds are the new trendy superfood at the moment, let us assure you, they are worth it. People have been eating chia seeds for thousands of years. Derived from a desert plant called Salvia hispanica, (a member of the mint family) chia seeds offer a ton of nutrition in a very small package. Health experts refer to chia seeds as a nutritional powerhouse. But what exactly are chia seeds? How do they benefit our body? And how to include them in our diet? Here is everything you need to know.

Chia seeds have always been valued as an ingredient that increases the intake of all important nutrients. From smoothies to salads, chia seeds can be added to almost any dish of your choice. 

As the name suggests chia seeds are small round shaped "seeds" that can be black, white or brown in color. It is a hardy crop that needs very little water to survive. Chia seeds are superfoods that are surprisingly easy to digest. This versatile ingredient has the power to absorb about 12 times its weight in liquid. In fact, chia seeds form a gel around them when mixed in liquid, which is what gives it a very special texture. Chia seeds are that mini but mighty ingredient that can turn any regular recipe into a healthy, nutrient-packed meal. Chia seeds provide a variety of nutrients such as fiber, protein, manganese, calcium, antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids. Naturally, these provide a number of health benefits.

Historically, chia seeds functioned as an energy source for warriors who ran long distances or fought for a long period of time. According to Ayurveda, chia seeds have the power to purify the blood and improve digestion. Not only that, it works to improve kidney health and provides maximum hydration. In fact, in the Mayan language, chia means "strength." So, whenever you're feeling a little low on energy, you can count on a chia seed recipe to give you a boost. This is one of the many benefits of chia seeds.

When it comes to nutrition, chia seeds are a 'powerhouse'. They are rich in protein, fiber, manganese, phosphorus and even calcium. Also, they are an excellent source of antioxidants and omega-3 (unsaturated fatty acids.) The US Department of Agriculture says that one ounce of dry chia seeds (which is about 28 grams) has the following nutritional value:

Therefore, just one serving of dry chia seeds can have about 137 calories, 5 grams of protein, 10 grams of fiber, 12 grams of carbohydrates and 9 grams of fat, of which 8 grams are heart-healthy fats. In addition to all the nutrients listed above, chia seeds are also rich in vitamins A, B, E and D along with minerals such as iron, iodine, copper, magnesium, niacin and thiamine.