Chia is a Spanish sage, which is popular with residents of Latin America and vegetarians due to the nutritional value of its seed. Now there are more and more advertising publications that say that this miracle plant can significantly help in losing weight. From this article you will learn what the real benefits of chia seeds are.
Composition of chia seeds
The composition of the seeds of Spanish sage does include a number of beneficial substances that can indirectly affect the processes of weight loss. Among the useful components, you can list the following:
- fatty acids omega-3 and omega-6, which contribute to the purification of blood vessels and improve blood circulation;
- Chia seeds are 25% fibrous , which allows gently cleansing the intestines and all the hollow organs, improving digestion and eliminating waste products;
- Chlorogenic acid is the same ingredient that makes green coffee famous - it somewhat contributes to accelerated fat burning during training.
It is worth noting that they appreciate the seeds of chia and for their ability to swell, gain a large amount of moisture and increase by 12 times. This allows you to provide a sense of satiety and reduce cravings for harmful snacks.
Caloric content of chia seeds
We used to believe that all foods that are recommended for weight loss, have a low calorie content. However, in this case this rule does not work: 100 grams of seeds account for 486 kcal. Of these, 16.5 grams of protein, 30.7 grams of fats and 42 grams of carbohydrates.
In their defense, it should be recalled that they need to be consumed in small quantities. For reference, let's consider the weight of seeds:
- in 1 teaspoon - 8 g of chia seeds;
- in 1 tablespoon 25 grams of chia seeds;
- in 1 glass of 230 grams of chia seeds.
In any case, use chia seeds for weight loss with caution and in limited quantities. It is best to consult a doctor before using them.
Properties of chia seeds
We examined in detail the composition of chia seeds, and this helps to judge that some good for losing weight from them will still be. However, this does not mean that it is enough to eat them to lose weight. Their very presence in your diet can not cope with the excess calories we get when eating, eating sweet, flour or fatty foods.
Thus, a diet is needed in any case, and you will lose weight on proper nutrition without any seeds. They can be used only as an additional means, if there is such a desire.
Chia seeds and Dukan
In the Dukan diet, chia seeds are allowed to be consumed, however, as the main source of fiber, the doctor recommends using them not at all, in the flax seed. It also has a mass of useful properties and is an excellent tonic. However, because of it, it is possible to cause the movement of stones in the kidneys, and it is forbidden to use it autonomously.
How to use chia seeds for weight loss?
Chia seeds can be used in many ways, because to taste they are almost neutral. It is believed that if you add them to a dish, you can safely impose yourself half of the usual portion, and this will be enough, because they cause a feeling of satiety. However, this statement is not proven at the moment.
For weight loss, it is recommended to use a sour milk drink mixed with a teaspoon of chia seeds for breakfast. The same recipe will save the evening hunger after dinner, and also suitable for eating as a snack during the day. It is best to mix the seeds with kefir or unsweetened yogurt in advance, a few hours before the intended use - this will allow them to swell.
Please note that this product is prohibited for use with any problems with the gastrointestinal tract and especially with poisoning and diarrhea.