Chia, hemp, and flax … these tiny seeds are the next big thing in nutrition. If you’ve ever searched for a healthy smoothie recipe or healthy breakfast recipe, chances are you’ll find at least one of these seeds listed in the ingredients. So, why is there so much hype around these “super seeds” and how do we know which ones to include in our diets?
Seeds have been deemed “nutritional powerhouses” by health experts and for a good reason. These seeds are packed with healthy fats, fiber, disease-fighting minerals and enzymes, antioxidants and proteins. Each one of these tiny wonders has its own unique nutritional value and can be easily incorporated into just about any recipe without changing its taste or texture.
Here are the three 3 super food seeds that will add a nutrient-packed punch to your diet:
Chia Seeds
What are they? You may have heard of them first as the seeds that grow toy Chia pets, but chia seeds are actually an ancient super food used by Aztec warriors to increase energy and stamina on the battlefield.
Why are they good for you? In addition to being an excellent source of fiber, antioxidants, and protein, chia is very rich in Omega 3 fatty acids. Dr. Andrew Weil suggests they may have even more so than flax. Not to mention that this tiny seed may have over three times more calcium than milk! Chia also forms a gel when added to liquid and absorbs ten times its weight in water making it an excellent source of hydration.
Add a tablespoon into your morning smoothie or cereal, or mix into coconut water for an extra hydrating post-workout drink.
Hemp Seeds
What are they? Hemp seeds come from the same Cannabis species as marijuana, but don’t worry about testing positive for drugs after consuming these seeds—the minuscule amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) found in hemps seed make them perfectly safe to incorporate in your healthy diet.
Why are they good for you? Hemp seeds contain all the essential amino acids—something uncommon in plant protein sources. This means that hemps seeds are a fantastic protein supplement for people on a plant-based diet. They’re also chock-full of fiber and packed with other nutrients, such as omega-3 and omega-6, vitamin E, B vitamins, and folic acid.
Start your morning off right blending a tablespoon of hemp seeds into your oatmeal or use hemp-based protein in your post-workout smoothie for an extra hit of protein and nutrition.
Flax Seeds
What are they? This seed comes from the flax plant and has been celebrated for centuries for its health benefits by people all over the world.
Why are they good for you? Flax seeds are rich in Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA), an essential fatty acid and powerful anti-inflammatory. Some studies show that due to their anti-inflammatory properties, flax seeds may help prevent heart disease and reduce certain types of cancers. They are also an excellent source of dietary fiber, lignans, calcium, potassium, and magnesium, among other nutrients. To get the most out of your flax seeds, try grinding them first—this will make them easier for you to digest and absorb all the nutrients.
Just sprinkle ground flax seeds into cereals, baked goods, smoothies, and yogurt for an extra boost of vitamins and minerals.
Lauryn Axelrod, CHHC, Nutrition Coordinator