Chia seeds: Can this wonder seed help you lose weight?

A tiny superfood, chia seeds are edible seeds that are very rich in omega 3 fatty acids and antioxidants. Many studies have also credited chia seeds to benefit various health conditions such as diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension, inflammation, oxidative stress and blood clotting.  However, amidst all the health-giving properties, there has been questions raised as to if chia seeds can help lose weight.

While Chia seeds are packed with quite a nutrient wallop, providing the key foundation for weight loss including satiating protein, inflammation-lowering fatty acids, hunger-busting fiber, plenty of minerals and antioxidants, there hasn’t been scientific evidence that chia seeds help you lose weight.

Also Read | Six reasons why you shouldn’t be guilty of eating chocolates 

While chia seeds might not really be a magic bullet for weight loss, there are many other reasons why you should not skip this nutrient-packed superfood. 
You can add chia seeds to protein shakes and food, or sprinkle ground/whole chia seeds on cereal to give a nudge in flavour. You can also add them to yogurt or salads, eat them as a snack, or grind them and mix them with flour when making muffins or other baked goods.

While it might not be a magic Jack and the Beanstalk seed, you will benefit with its calcium, magnesium, manganese, copper, iron, zinc, molybdenum properties. Its rich antioxidant properties will also help you have younger looking skin, healthier hair, and can even reduce the risk of cancer. 

Also Read | Smartphones might be affecting your child’s development

For non-meat eaters, finding food with protein can be a slog. Fret not! For every 2 tablespoon of chia seeds there are 4 grams of protein. You can have protein, calcium, fiber in a single bowl of chia cereal. We just solved all your breakfast woes. Didn’t we?