Whenever the benefits of chia seeds are talked about, people consider them good for weight loss. Whereas including chia seeds in the diet also has a positive effect on heart health.
Chia seeds are considered super foods. In recent times, chia seeds have gained immense popularity due to their health benefits. Generally, people include chia seeds in their weight loss diet, because they are fiber-rich. But actually, chia seeds are beneficial for health in many ways. Chia seeds not only help in maintaining your weight, but it is also good for your heart health.
Chia seeds are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, fibre and antioxidants, due to which it has a positive effect on overall health by reducing bad fats. So today in this article, RituPuri, Dietitian of ESIC Hospital, Central Government Hospital, is telling you about the heart health benefits of chia seeds-
Bad cholesterol is reduced
Bad cholesterol is very harmful to the heart, but if you consume chia seeds then it helps in reducing bad cholesterol. This is because chia seeds are a good source of ALA i.e. alpha-linolenic acid. ALA is a type of omega-3 fatty acid. When it is included in the diet, it reduces blood triglyceride levels as well as bad cholesterol.
Contains anti-oxidant properties
Consuming chia seeds is also considered good for heart health because anti-oxidant properties are found in them. It takes care of heart health by neutralizing free radicals. These free radicals increase oxidative stress and can cause inflammation and damage to blood vessels. However, the antioxidants present in chia seeds, such as quercetin, chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid, improve heart health.
Stable blood sugar level
Consumption of chia seeds helps a lot in keeping blood sugar levels stable. When blood sugar levels remain stable, it has a positive effect on heart health. It is seen that excessive fluctuations in blood sugar levels can increase heart problems including diabetes. The fibre and protein present in chia seeds can help in keeping blood sugar levels stable.
Triglycerides are reduced
Chia seeds are also considered good for heart health because they play a role in reducing triglyceride levels in the blood. High levels of triglycerides significantly increase the risk of heart disease. The omega-3 fatty acids and fibre content present in chia seeds can help in reducing triglyceride levels as well as improving lipid profile.
Rich in nutrients
The consumption of chia seeds is also considered good because many types of nutrients are found in them. Chia seeds contain nutrients like magnesium, potassium and calcium. Therefore, when consumed, it has a good effect on heart health. While magnesium helps regulate blood pressure, potassium plays an important role in heart function.
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