Not long ago, the health and wellness world was literally obsessed with the existence of superfoods like acai berries, spirulina and oats. Until chia seed came into picture—now the world has somewhat revolved around them. There they are, soaking up all the spotlight. How can they not? Chia seed, a super seed that champions energy, bone strengthening, weight-loss, and overall protecting your skin barrier and hair! 

Now, we all have one question in mind, how can these small, tiny seeds have such an enduring impact on our body? No wonder all health instructors consume the utmost intake of chia seed in their daily routine. And the versatility to incorporate chia seed into your meal is often limitless. Pudding, oats, fruit bowl, the list goes on, (not to mention tasty), so really we got the best of both worlds! 

So, buckle up ladies and gentleman, for today’s lesson, Beauty Insider brings you all things chia seed—the surprising health benefits of these tiny seeds will make you want to run to the nearest grocery store to buy them. 

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The Origin Of Chia Seed

Originating from the Latin America, chia seed is a non-fragrant plant oil. They were formally known as ‘’Salvia Hispanica’’ seed oil. Very intriguing, given that they came from the latin side itself. What makes chia seed intimidating is that they are jam packed with antioxidant properties inside. Fatty acids, vitamins, minerals and fibers are among powerful ingredients that scientists could discover levitating inside these tiny, small seeds. 

Furthermore, they contain more than 60% Alpha-Linolenic Acid inside. If you don’t speak science, it is basically an ome-3 fatty acid, which is considered the biggest arsenal in plant source. In short, chia seed is beneficial for your overall energy, nutrition, skincare and hair. And because they contain a high level of fatty acids, when rubbed directly into your skin or adding them into your beauty routine, they will create a stable and resistant oxidation. 

Meaning, they will prevent sagging and wrinkles from forming. Keep your skin layers in tack, and restore illumination. If you’re a bit lazy for a little DIY, you can find a lot of skincare products ranging from moisturizers to eye cream that have chia seed as the ingredients. We promise you’ll see a lot of difference.

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6 Surprising Health Of Chia Seeds

1. Chia Seeds Help You Lose Weight 

Because of their yummy taste, you can be very addicted to adding chia seed into most of your everyday meals. These tiny friends comprised around 25% protein and a full amount of fibre. That could be a good sign though, because the more you consume chia seeds, the more weight you’ll lose. Seriously, have you found a food that helps you lose weight and at the same time taste very addicting? 

They will satisfy your craving more than any fast food out there. So what you’ll need is only about 2 tablespoons per serving and you’ll get enough boost of nutrients in a day. That’s more than enough! You can include them in your morning fruit bowl, your lunch, and your supper oat bowl.

2. Chia Seed Help Prevent Chronic Disease 

As mentioned earlier, they contain more than 60% Alpha-Linolenic Acid inside. If you don’t speak science, it is basically an ome-3 fatty acid, which is considered the biggest arsenal in plant source. They are a big deal when it comes to fighting chronic disease treatment. We’re talking diabetes, skin cancer and cholesterol. 

When taking the right amount of serving everyday, chia seed will consistently help you in preventing your cholesterol level (LDL) to rise, instead they will help the good cholesterol (HDL) to flow around your blood vessels. If you’re suffering from serum triglycerides, it is advisable for you to take chia seed daily. They will improve your heart health and neurologic function.

3. Chia Seeds Are Packed With Its Own Nutrients 

Not only do they produce their own antioxidants but they also have their own nutrients. One serving of chia seeds contains a solid amount of source of immune booster—calcium, iron and zinc. As well as providing bone-strengthening advantages like magnesium and potassium. So, in short, these tiny seeds have all your bones needed to help them stay in shape. 

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4. Chia Seeds Moisturize Your Skin

Now into the fun part! Chia seeds definitely help in moisturizing your skin, restoring hydration and bring elasticity back to your skin layers. They contain quite a number of H20 inside, so once they come in contact with your skin barrier, they immediately soften and smoothen the appearance of your skin. They are rich in emollients, too, so they can help with improvising any dark spots and uneven skin tones.

5. Chia Seeds Help With Dryness 

Another skincare benefits alert! Aside from restoring hydration, chia seeds also help in fighting dryness and itchiness skin problems. If you suffer from pruritus or eczema, eating chia seed or adding chia seed extract onto your skincare essentials can improve your skin condition. 

To back this fact, there’s research that shows that eczema patients who start to use chia seed cream, saw a difference of almost 4% everyday. So kiss your itchiness and dry skin problem goodbye, chia seed might be the reason you might not see them for a little while. How exciting? 

6. Chia Seeds Help With Hair Growth 

At this point, you already know that chia seed is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, so they will overall help in controlling hair loss as well as strengthen your strands. If you’re one of those women who are faced with a thinning hair problem, using a chia seeds hair mask could be your solution. 

Other than that, your unhealthy lifestyle that leads to iron deficiency could also be the major contributing factors to hair loss, so we suggest you incorporate daily intake of chia seeds to prevent further hair loss problems. In results? You’ll be presented with a healthier and shinier looking mane! 

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Are There Any Side Effects? 

When it comes to the mighty chia seed, there are very few to minimum side effects that scientists could discover. Chia seed is a famous ingredient when it comes to overall health and beauty treatment, so you really have nothing to worry about. Though, for a first time user you might be faced with an allergic reaction to it. Just make sure you buy the original chia seed to prevent any sickness. If you need further clarification, we suggest you talk to your doctors. 

How To Use Chia Seeds?

As mentioned before, the best way to incorporate chia seeds into your everyday life is to add them into your meals. We suggest the famous fruit bowls or oat bowls that you see health instructors often eat for their breakfast or dinner. They taste super yummy, you’ll leave wanting more. 

If you’re the type of person who loves experimenting with a little DIY for your skincare, try to find a few DIY ideas where you can make your own mask or hair mask. They don’t have any fouly smells, too, so no need to worry about dealing with smelly hair afterwards. In terms of texture they’re soft and easy to blend. The choices are endless! 

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