chia seeds

Chia seeds are tiny black seeds that come from the Salvia hispanica plant, which is native to Mexico and Guatemala. These seeds have been used for centuries by the indigenous people of Mexico as a food source. In recent years, chia seeds have become popular in the United States as a health food.

Chia seeds are an excellent source of fiber. They contain both soluble and insoluble fibers, which can help promote regularity and digestion. Additionally, chia seeds are a good source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and minerals such as calcium and phosphorus.

There are many ways to incorporate chia seeds into your diet. They can be added to smoothies, yogurt, cereal, oatmeal, baked goods, or simply eaten on their own. Chia seeds can also be used as a replacement for eggs in recipes.

If you’re looking for a health food that is versatile and easy to incorporate into your diet, chia seeds are a great option.

10 best chia seed products

Bestseller No. 1
BetterBody Foods Organic Chia Seeds with Omega-3, Non-GMO, Gluten Free, Keto Diet Friendly, Vegan, Good Source of Fiber, 2 lbs, 32 Oz
  • NUTRIENT POWER: This omega powerhouse is full of other useful nutrients that will help men and women live a better life. In every serving of our chia seeds, you’ll find many nutrients, including omega-3, and fiber, making it a great bonus to any protein shake or juice. Because it is flavor neutral, you can add it to drinks and shakes of all flavors without them clashing
  • SIMPLY ORGANIC: Our Organic Chia Seeds are gluten-free, nut-free, low-carb, non-GMO, making them a great addition to your pantry, no matter your dietary restrictions. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, eating Keto or Paleo, or following another strict food regiment, you can easily incorporate this nutritious seed into your diet
  • WITH OMEGA-3 & MORE: Chia seeds are loaded with 5350mg of omega-3, 10g of fiber, which is 7% of the DV recommended amount for fiber. In the ancient Mayan language, the word “chia” meant strength, so the name speaks for itself. Our Organic Chia Seeds can also be used as an egg replacement in any meal. Simply mix 1 tbs. of chia seeds with 3 tbs. of water and let sit for 5 minutes
  • FLAVOR NEUTRAL FAVORITE: Chia seeds are a kitchen essential that many people don’t know about. You can add chia seeds to just about any food without having to worry about it upsetting the flavor of your dish. Because they are tasteless, you can use chia seeds to add texture to your food without drowning out the original flavor of your dish
  • BLEND, BAKE, OR SHAKE: When it comes to the uses for our chia seeds, the possibilities are endless. Mix into baked goods like bread and muffins to add a little added crunch of protein and fiber. You can also sprinkle the seeds as a topping on some yogurt, pudding, salads, oatmeal, granola, or cereal for a satisfying snack
Bestseller No. 2
Organic Chia Seeds - Plant-Based Omegas 3 and Vegan Protein, Perfect for Smoothies, Salads and Chia Puddings, Certified Non-GMO and USDA Organic, 2 lb (907 g)
  • ✔️ Plant-Based Omegas — Omega fatty acids are important fats, but when following a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle, it can be difficult to get them through diet alone. Chia seeds organic contain both omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids.
  • ✔️ Nutrient-Dense Superfood — These delicious superseeds are a great way to add a boost of vegan-friendly nutrients to salads, puddings and juices. Chia seeds organic whole foods contain dietary fiber, plus they’re low in saturated fat.
  • ✔️ Perfect for Smoothies, Salads and More — With a neutral flavor, chia seeds can be easily mixed into drinks, savory dishes and baked goods. Stir some into your salad dressings and marinades, sprinkle over yogurt, or mix into chia pudding and overnight oats.
  • ✔️ Vegan Protein — Looking for a versatile plant-based protein to incorporate in your diet? Mix some chia seeds into your morning smoothie or oatmeal for some veggie-friendly protein.
  • ✔️ USDA Organic and Non-GMO — Viva Naturals chia seeds are Non-GMO Project Verified, plus USDA Organic, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Kosher, Paleo and Keto. A nutrient-dense, high-quality superfood that’s perfect for a wide range of diets and lifestyles.
Bestseller No. 3
Anthony's Organic Chia Seed, 2.5 lb, Gluten Free, Vegan, Keto Friendly
  • USDA Certified Organic Black Chia Seeds
  • Batch Tested and Verified Gluten Free
  • Great source of Omega-3 fatty acids, protein, antioxidants and fiber
  • Product of Latin America, Packed in California
  • Add these versatile seeds to your favorite juices, sprinkle them on salads and oatmeal, or give your smoothie bowl a little chia kick!
SaleBestseller No. 4
Navitas Organics Chia Seeds (8oz)
  • Named after the Mayan word for “strength," the tiny chia seed is a substantial source of protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants!
  • A good source of magnesium, calcium and iron, Navitas Organics Chia Seeds also provide 11% DV fiber and 2g protein per serving.
  • Chia Seeds are abundant in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3's are healthy fats that are essential for optimal functioning.
  • Make chia pudding (the tiny seeds expand when soaked) or add to salads, oatmeal, dips, smoothies, and baked goods.
  • USDA Organic, Kosher, Non-GMO, vegan, gluten-free, 38 Servings.
Bestseller No. 5
Carrington Farms Organic Chia Seeds, Gluten Free, USDA Organic, 14 Ounce
  • GIVE BACK - Your purchase will help feed 250 kids three days a week through our Carrington Cares program. These children are a part of the local Philippine community where we source some of our products.
  • NUTRIENT RICH - Our organic whole chia seeds contain the richest plant source of Omega 3’s, containing more Omega 3’s than salmon. High in fiber, has more calcium by weight than milk, high in iron, potassium, folate, phosoporus, magnesium and manganese. Carrington Farms organic whole chia seeds are one of nature’s highest plant based sources of a complete protein and are extremely high in antioxidants.
  • MILD FLAVOR - Carrington Farms organic whole chia seeds have a very mild flavor and can be added to salads, cereal, yogurt and smoothies.
  • DIET FRIENDLY - Our organic whole chia seeds are suitable food for many diets including Paleo, Gluten Free, and Vegan.
Bestseller No. 6
FGO Organic Chia Seeds, Sourced from Paraguay, 32oz (Pack of 1)
  • ORGANIC CHIA SEEDS (SALVIA HISPANICA) - 32oz Resealable Bag (2 Pounds)
  • IMPORTED FROM PARAGUAY - This bag contains certified organic, Chia Seeds from Paraguay.
  • HEALTHY & DELICIOUS - Sprinkle onto salads and granola or stir it into your favorite smoothie.
  • CERTIFIED USDA ORGANIC - All our products are certified USDA Organic by California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF), a leader in organic certification. Look for the USDA Organic seal on our products!
  • LOVE IT OR YOUR MONEY BACK - If you are not 100% satisfied with your purchase of our Chia Seeds for any reason, just email us and we'll refund your order in full, no questions asked!
Bestseller No. 7
Terrasoul Superfoods Organic White Chia Seeds, 2 Lbs (2 Pack) - Omega Fats | Fiber | Plant Protein
  • Terrasoul Superfoods Organic White Chia Seeds, 2 Lbs (2 - 16oz Packages)
  • Certified Organic, Non-GMO, Earth Kosher, Raw, Gluten-Free, Vegan
  • White chia seeds are a great source of calcium, healthy omega fats, protein, antioxidants, and dietary fiber.
  • Terrasoul Superfoods sources the freshest and highest quality superfoods from all over the planet. Our mission is to make these amazing, healthy foods available to you at the lowest prices possible while paying our growers and employees fair wages.
  • 100% Money-Back Satisfaction Guarantee - We stand behind our products and offer a 30-day money back guarantee, backed by an outstanding customer service team.
Bestseller No. 8
Terrasoul Superfoods Organic Black Chia Seeds,Unflavored, 2.5 Pounds
  • USDA Certified Organic, Earth Kosher, Non-GMO, Raw, Gluten Free, and Vegan Friendly.
  • We source only the cleanest chia seeds that are debris free, and fresh, directly from the growers.
  • Chia seeds are a great source of calcium, healthy omega fats, protein, antioxidants, and dietary fiber.
  • Terrasoul Superfoods sources the freshest and highest quality superfoods from all over the planet. Our mission is to make these amazing, healthy foods available to you at the lowest prices possible while paying our growers and employees fair wages.
  • 100% Money-Back Satisfaction Guarantee - We stand behind our products and offer a 30-day money back guarantee, backed by an outstanding customer service team.
Bestseller No. 9
Roots Circle Non-GMO Chia Seeds | 1.3 Pound (Pack of 1) Raw Superfood, Vegan, Kosher, Nut& Gluten Free, Keto, Paleo & Friendly | Add Omega 3 & Protein to your Salad, Smoothie, Oatmeal, & Acai Bowl
  • TOP-QUALITY BLACK SEEDS WITH SMOOTH, RICH TASTE: Roots Circle chia seeds are carefully washed and packed in a nut-free, dairy-free, egg-free facility. We remove any bitterness and gritty byproduct, bringing you pure seeds that absorb easily when mixed with liquid.
  • NATURALLY RICH IN ALL ESSENTIAL DAILY NUTRIENTS: 100% natural and raw, each serving of chia seeds packs the recommended daily amounts of multiple vitamins—an excellent source of plant-based protein that tastes great cooked, soaked, mixed or ground.
  • FLAVOR NEUTRAL & EXTREMELY VERSATILE STAPLE: No pantry is complete without our mild, antioxidant-laden, ready-to-eat seeds. Sneak them into your children’s smoothies, cookies, muffins, yogurt, overnight oats, acai and protein bowls for a powerful nutrition boost.
  • 8X MORE OMEGA 3 FATTY ACIDS THAN SALMON: Beyond keto, paleo and friendly, chia is an essential building block of bone, muscle, cartilage, skin and blood thanks to its high calcium, magnesium, iron, omega 3, zinc, B1, B2, B3, protein and fiber content.
  • 21OZ AIRTIGHT CONTAINER MAINTAINS FRESHNESS: Our chia seed bulk pack comes in a stable square container with a comfortable side grip, wide mouth and thick airtight cover. Easily flip the lid to scoop out or refill, and lock freshness back in with a simple press.
Bestseller No. 10
Nutiva USDA Organic Premium Nutrient-Dense Raw Black Chia Seeds with 3g Protein & 5g Fiber for Salads, Yogurt & Smoothies, Non-GMO, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Keto & Paleo, 32 Ounce (Pack of 1)
  • Rich source of protein, antioxidants, essential Omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, calcium, potassium, and fiber
  • An ideal addition to Whole30, vegetarian, vegan, whole food, paleo-friendly, ketogenic, and gluten-free diets
  • Healthy, flavor-neutral black chia seeds add a wholesome gourmet flair to salads, snacks, smoothies, and baked goods, or soak them for a satisfying pudding or gel
  • Nutiva stringently adheres to USDA guidelines and partners with organic farmers to source the world’s finest non-GMO chia seeds and to deliver food that is good for you and for the planet
  • Comes in easy-to-use, resealable, BPA-free packaging

What are chia seeds?

Chia seeds are tiny black seeds that come from the Salvia hispanica plant, which is native to Mexico and Guatemala. These seeds have been used for centuries by the indigenous people of Mexico as a food source. In recent years, chia seeds have become popular in the United States as a health food.

Chia seeds are an excellent source of fiber. They contain both soluble and insoluble fibers, which can help promote regularity and digestion. Additionally, chia seeds are a good source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and minerals such as calcium and phosphorus.

There are many ways to incorporate chia seeds into your diet. They can be added to smoothies, yogurt, cereal, oatmeal, baked goods, or simply eaten on their own. Chia seeds can also be used as a replacement for eggs in recipes.

If you’re looking for a health food that is versatile and easy to incorporate into your diet, chia seeds are a great option. Give them a try today!

Origins of chia seeds

The origins of chia seeds date back to the Aztec and Mayan cultures of Mexico and Central America. These indigenous people relied on chia seeds as a major source of nutrition. The word “chia” actually comes from the Aztec word “chian,” which means “oily.”

The Aztecs and Mayans believed that chia seeds had mystical powers and used them in religious ceremonies. In fact, they were so revered that they were often given as gifts to royalty.

The Spaniards conquered Mexico in the 16th century and discovered the nutritional benefits of chia seeds. However, they banned the use of these seeds by the indigenous people and forced them to grow other crops instead.

It wasn’t until the late 20th century that chia seeds began to regain popularity. In recent years, they have become a popular health food in the United States.

Nutritional value of chia seeds

Chia seeds are an excellent source of fiber. They contain both soluble and insoluble fibers, which can help promote regularity and digestion. Additionally, chia seeds are a good source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and minerals such as calcium and phosphorus.

One ounce (28 grams) of chia seeds contains the following nutrients:

Fiber: 11 grams

Protein: 4 grams

Fat: 9 grams

Calcium: 18% of the Daily Value (DV)

Phosphorus: 27% of the DV

Manganese: 30% of the DV

Magnesium: 30% of the DV

Health benefits of chia seeds

The health benefits of chia seeds are largely due to their high nutrient content. These tiny seeds are an excellent source of fiber, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants. Additionally, they are a good source of minerals such as calcium and phosphorus.

The fiber in chia seeds can help promote regularity and digestion. The protein and omega-3 fatty acids are essential for tissue repair and growth. The antioxidants may help protect cells from damage. And the calcium and phosphorus are important for bone health.

There is also some evidence to suggest that chia seeds can help improve blood sugar control and cholesterol levels. Additionally, they may help reduce inflammation throughout the body.

How to incorporate chia seeds into your diet

There are many ways to incorporate chia seeds into your diet. You can add them to smoothies, oatmeal, yogurt, or simply sprinkle them on top of salad. Chia seeds are an excellent source of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, both of which are essential for good health. Here are some tips on how to make the most of chia seeds in your diet:

1. Add chia seeds to smoothies. They will thicken the smoothie and add a boost of antioxidants, protein, and fiber.

2. Stir chia seeds into oatmeal or yogurt. This is a great way to add texture and flavor to plain yogurt or oatmeal.

3. Sprinkle chia seeds on top of salad. They add a nice crunch and an extra dose of nutrients.

4. Use chia seeds in baking. They can be used in place of flour or added to recipes for an extra nutrient boost. Chia seeds can also be used as an egg replacer in many vegan and gluten-free recipes. Just combine 1 tablespoon of chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water and let sit for a few minutes. This “egg” will help to bind your ingredients together.

5. Make a chia seed pudding. This is a great dessert or snack option that is high in fiber and protein.

6. Add chia seeds to homemade energy bars or granola. This is a great way to get an extra nutrient boost when you need it most.

7. Use chia seeds as a binding agent in recipes. This is especially helpful if you are making gluten-free or vegan recipes.

8. Add chia seeds to soups or stews. This is a great way to add extra fiber and protein to your favorite soups and stews.

9. Make chia seed jam. This is a healthy alternative to store-bought jams that are often high in sugar.

10. Add chia seeds to your favorite recipe. There are endless possibilities when it comes to incorporating chia seeds into your diet. Sprinkle chia seeds on top of salad, soup, or cereal for a nutritional boost. You can also use them to make healthy homemade energy bars or granola. Get creative and see what works best for you!

If you’re looking for a health food that is versatile and easy to incorporate into your diet, chia seeds are a great option.

Recipes featuring chia seeds

Chia seeds are a superfood that have many benefits. They are high in fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids. Chia seeds can be added to many different dishes to boost nutrition. Here are five recipes that feature chia seeds as a key ingredient:

1. Chia Seed Breakfast Bowl

Start your day with a nutritious breakfast bowl featuring chia seeds. Mix together chia seeds, yogurt, fruits, and nuts for a filling breakfast that will keep you energized all morning long.

2. Chia Seed Pudding

This healthy pudding is made with chia seeds, almond milk, and honey. It’s a delicious and satisfying dessert that is good for you too!

3. Chia Seed Smoothie

A chia seed smoothie is a great way to get your daily dose of fruits and vegetables. Blend together chia seeds, milk, fruits, and veggies for a refreshing and nutritious drink.

4. Chia Seed Salad

This salad is packed with healthy ingredients like chia seeds, quinoa, kale, and avocado. It’s a filling and satisfying meal that is perfect for lunch or dinner.

5. Chia Seed Snacks

These snacks are made with nutrient-rich ingredients like chia seeds, dark chocolate, and nuts. They’re the perfect healthy snack to have on hand when you’re feeling hungry between meals.

What happens if you eat chia seeds everyday?

If you’re looking for a nutritional powerhouse, chia seeds are a great option. These tiny seeds are packed with fiber, protein, healthy fats, and vitamins and minerals. Just one ounce (28 grams) of chia seeds contains 11 grams of fiber and 4 grams of protein. Plus, chia seeds are a good source of vitamin B3 (niacin), potassium, vitamin B2 (riboflavin) and vitamin B1 (thiamine) (1).

Because of their impressive nutrient profile, chia seeds have been associated with several health benefits. Here are some of the most well-studied ones.

May Help You Lose Weight and Reduce Your Waistline

Because they’re high in fiber, protein and healthy fats, chia seeds may help you lose weight. In fact, one study showed that participants who added chia seeds to their diet lost more weight and body fat than those who didn’t (2).

Another study looked at the effects of chia seeds on people with type 2 diabetes. The participants were given either 37 grams of chia seeds or wheat bran per day for 12 weeks. At the end of the study, those who ate chia seeds had lower levels of belly fat, as well as better blood sugar control (3).

May Decrease Inflammation and Risk Factors for Disease

Inflammation is a normal immune response, but chronic inflammation can contribute to the development of several diseases, such as heart disease, cancer and arthritis (4).

Fortunately, chia seeds may help fight inflammation. In fact, one test-tube study showed that chia seed extract was able to decrease markers of inflammation by up to 50% (5). Additionally, animal studies have shown that chia seeds can decrease markers of inflammation in the digestive tract, as well as reduce symptoms of arthritis (6, 7).

What’s more, chia seeds contain high levels of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid that has been shown to decrease inflammation (8). In fact, one study showed that ALA was able to decrease markers of inflammation by up to 30% (9).

Therefore, eating chia seeds may help reduce your risk of developing inflammatory diseases.

May Improve Blood Sugar Control and Type 2 Diabetes

Chia seeds may also be beneficial for people with diabetes. Because they’re high in fiber and protein, they help slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream (10).

What’s more, animal studies have shown that chia seeds can increase insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels (11, 12). One study in particular showed that participants who ate 37 grams of chia seeds per day had improved blood sugar control after 12 weeks (3).

Additionally, a review of 14 studies found that taking chia seeds helped decrease fasting blood sugar levels by an average of 7 mg/dl in people with type 2 diabetes (13). This effect was even more pronounced when chia seeds were taken with a meal.

May Boost Heart Health

Chia seeds may also help protect against heart disease. One animal study showed that feeding rats chia seeds for 12 weeks was able to decrease several risk factors for heart disease, including inflammation, high blood pressure and bad cholesterol levels (14).

Another animal study found that chia seeds were able to decrease blood pressure in rats with hypertension, or high blood pressure (15). Additionally, a review of 13 studies showed that taking chia seeds helped reduce “bad” LDL cholesterol by an average of 5 mg/dl (16).

Therefore, eating chia seeds may help reduce your risk of developing heart disease.

May Improve Digestive Health and Constipation Relief

Constipation is a common digestive problem, affecting up to 30% of people at some point in their lives (17). Fortunately, chia seeds may be a helpful natural remedy. This is because they’re high in fiber, which is known to promote regularity and prevent constipation (18).

What’s more, one study showed that taking a chia seed supplement was able to increase stool frequency and improve constipation symptoms in adults (19). Another study found that chia seeds were just as effective as psyllium, a common treatment for constipation (20).

May Help Lower Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease. Therefore, anything that helps lower blood pressure may also reduce your risk of developing heart disease.

Interestingly, several studies have shown that consuming chia seeds can help lower blood pressure. In fact, one study showed that taking 37 grams of chia seeds per day for 12 weeks was able to decrease systolic blood pressure by 3.6% and diastolic blood pressure by 4.4% (3).

Another study showed that taking 30 grams of chia seeds per day for four weeks was able to decrease blood pressure in people with high blood pressure (21). Additionally, a review of seven studies found that consuming 25 grams of chia seeds per day helped reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure by an average of 3 mm Hg (22).

Therefore, eating chia seeds may help lower your risk of developing heart disease.

May Aid Weight Loss and Fat Reduction

Chia seeds may also help you lose weight. This is because they’re high in fiber and protein, both of which are known to help promote weight loss (23, 24).

What’s more, animal studies have shown that chia seeds can reduce food intake and decrease the number of fat cells in the body (25, 26). Additionally, one human study showed that taking a chia seed supplement was able to decrease waist circumference and body weight (27).

Therefore, including chia seeds in your diet may help you lose weight and reduce body fat.

May Improve Exercise Performance

Chia seeds may also enhance exercise performance. This is because they’re a good source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid that has been shown to improve exercise endurance (28).

In fact, one study showed that taking 50 grams of chia seeds per day for 12 weeks was able to increase running time by an average of 3.3% in long-distance runners (29). Additionally, another study found that consuming chia seeds before exercise helped improve cycling performance by 4.3% (30).

Therefore, eating chia seeds may help you exercise for longer and improve your athletic performance.

Nutritious addition to any diet

Not only are they a good source of fiber and protein, but they also contain several vitamins and minerals. What’s more, chia seeds are high in antioxidants and have been linked to many health benefits, including improved heart health, weight loss and exercise performance.

If you’re looking to add more chia seeds to your diet, they’re easy to incorporate into many different recipes. For example, you can add them to oatmeal, smoothies or yogurt. You can also use them in place of bread crumbs when making meatballs or burgers. Additionally, chia seeds can be sprinkled on top of salads or used as a crunchy topping for soups and stews.

Overall, chia seeds are a healthy and versatile addition to any diet. Including them in your regular meals and snacks may help improve your overall health in many ways.

The bottom line

Overall, chia seeds are a nutritious and versatile food that offer many health benefits. If you’re looking for a way to add more fiber, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants to your diet, give chia seeds a try. You can add them to smoothies, yogurt, cereal, oatmeal, baked goods, or simply eat them on their own. Chia seeds can also be used as a replacement for eggs in recipes. So what are you waiting for? Give them a try today!