What is Chia?
Salvia hispanica, commonly known
as chia, is a species of flowering plant in the mint family,
Lamiaceae, native to central and southern Mexico and
Guatemala.The 16th century Codex Mendoza provides evidence
that it was cultivated by the Aztec in pre-Columbian times;
economic historians have suggested that it was as important as
maize as a food crop. It is still used in Mexico and Guatemala,
with the seeds sometimes ground, while whole seeds are used for
nutritious drinks and as a food source
Composition:
The main components are the omega 3 - in higher content than that found in flaxseed. also has fiber, calcium, magnesium, potassium and protein.
Helps lose weight because ...
According to nutritionist Flávia Cyfer the chia acts on three different fronts that help in weight loss
Cause satiety: "Its seeds are mucilaginous, meaning rich in fiber. On contact with water to form a gel in the stomach. Before this reaction, digestion becomes slower. Accordingly, the individual is more satisfied quickly and then starts to consume smaller portions. "
Fights inflammation: "fat is a result of an inflammatory process in the body, which stops sending messages of satiety to the brain. With that, you lose control over hunger about to eat and never feel satisfied. Omega 3 The present in the grain combat this inflammation, helping the body regain control over your appetite. "
Detoxifies: "fiber regulates intestinal transit and cleans the body through the stool."
Other benefits:
Besides helping the body to get in shape, chia assists in lowering cholesterol, controlling blood glucose levels, aids in bone formation, prevents premature aging and improves the body's immunity.
Contraindications:
Anyone can eat the seed. However, due to the high calorie, the excess can lead to weight gain. So to lose weight, eat only the amount indicated on the matter.
How to consume?
"While the American Dietetic Association recommends 20 to 35
grams of fiber each day, unfortunately the average American only
gets 12 to 15 grams. With nearly 11 grams of fiber per ounce, chia
delivers 42% of your recommended daily value of fiber in a single
serving. Fiber is vital for all aspects of health, and is especially
key for weight loss and digestion. Fiber helps slow digestion and
makes you feel fuller by soaking up fluid and expanding in your
digestive tract.
Chia absorbs up to 12 times its own weight and expands to curb
your appetite, so adding just an ounce or so of chia seeds to your
diet can reduce caloric intake and help lower the energy density
(or calories) of foods, plus double the amount of fiber you
receive."