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Sprinkle on Some Chia Seeds

Tiny yet mighty, they’re packed with nutrients

By

Staying Sharp

Updated June 24, 2024

Updated June 24, 2024

A strawberry kiwi yogurt with cereals, chia seeds and agave syrup in a glass bowl on wood

Westend61/Getty Images

Quick Win

Versatile chia seeds provide fiber, heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids and calcium.

Try This Today

Purchase chia seeds from your grocery store. They’re usually in the baking aisle or near the oatmeal. (And yes, these are the same seeds used to make Chia Pets!)
Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of chia onto your meal. Chia makes an excellent addition to breakfast cereals, salads, stir-fries and more.
Crunchy at first, chia seeds will start to absorb liquid and develop a gel-like texture. Try using them as a thickening agent for puddings, jams and smoothies.

Why

Chia seeds are packed with fiber, protein, heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, calcium and magnesium. Thanks to their nutritional profile, chia seeds could help reduce blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol while fighting inflammation and easing constipation, according to a review of research published in Food Science & Nutrition in 2022.

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