Power seed - could chia challenge effects of high-fat diet?

Depressed by dieting? Cheer up with chia! Too many high-fat foods, and too little time, make it hard to eat healthy - but chia products can provide a simple, delicious and nutritious solution to diet challenges. Gone are the days when “chia” conjured visions of clay figurines sprouting chia “hair.” This ancient Aztec staple has gained increasing recognition as a nutrition powerhouse — and just-published research points to chia’s potential as an anti-obesity ally.

Effects on the fat metabolism

A basic study from the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry found that chia significantly restrained unhealthy effects of obesity. In the study, evidence was found that chia can reduce blood sugar, stomach fat as well as liver fat and retard inflammation. Why might this be? Chia is loaded with certain omega-3 fatty acids, which may have prompted metabolic enzymes to redistribute fat away from the abdominal area, where it does the most harm. Moreover, previous preliminary research found that omega-3 prevented the development of fat cells in lab cultures.

Curb cravings with chia

In addition to omega-3s, chia’s concentrated nutrition might curb cravings associated with nutrient deficiencies. Indeed, chia seeds (3 tablespoons) have as much protein as an egg and 21% more fiber than flax! Chia seeds are great blended into smoothies, tossed with salads, or into granola.

What about a smoothie with chia for your next breakfast?

Your Dole Team