All of the attention on TikTok may make it seem like chia seeds are a trendy new ingredient. But it’s actually quite the opposite. Chia seeds have long been used as a superfood, prized by the Aztecs and Maya for their ability to provide long-lasting energy.
The tiny seed is native to Mexico and Guatemala. Related to mint, they come from the Salvia hispanica plant. And yes, they are the same chia seeds sold in “Chia Pet” kits.
It is true that the ancient ingredient has been getting some modern-day love. Chia seeds have become a common ingredient in healthy recipes, from muffins to overnight oats to TikTok famous chia seed water. But it’s left people with a lot of questions about the superfood seed. How many chia seeds can you eat in a day? Do chia seeds help you lose weight? What is the best way to eat chia seeds? And can you eat too many? We break this wellness trend down for you right here!
The health benefits of chia
There’s a reason why so many health and nutrition pros keep chia seeds on hand. They’re a good source of protein, high in fiber and gluten-free. Plus, they’re rich in alpha linolenic acid (ALA), a type of plant-based omega-3 fatty acid that has anti-inflammatory benefits. A 2-tablespoon serving (which is a TON of seeds) has 150 calories, 10g of fiber, 6g of protein and 10g of fat, most of which is the healthy polyunsaturated variety.
In terms of how much chia to eat each day, it’s smart to stick to the 2-tablespoon serving size. You’ll probably want to break this up throughout the day, adding a teaspoon or two to your smoothie, another teaspoon in your mid-morning yogurt, and the rest in recipes like chia pudding.
Chia and hydration
The diminutive seeds can absorb up to 10 times their weight in water. This means that when you eat chia pudding or chia gel, you’re also getting the liquid they absorbed along with it. Consuming liquids via chia can be smart for times when you don’t want to drink a lot of water, like before a race or a run,…
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