Organic Black Chia Seeds, 3lb
$30.26
Tiny seeds that do a lot.
Want an easy nutrition boost? Did you know chia seeds can soak up around ten times their weight in water and are rich in fibre and omega-3 ALA? Stir them into your breakfast.
Chia seeds come from Salvia hispanica, a plant in the mint family native to Mexico and Guatemala. They were a staple food of the Aztecs and Maya, who valued them for stamina. Despite their tiny size, chia seeds pack in fibre, plant-based omega-3 (ALA), protein, calcium and magnesium. When soaked, they absorb many times their weight in water and form a soft gel, which is why they are popular in puddings, smoothies and baking.
Delivery: Usually arrives within 3 days to 2 weeks.
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Benefits & common uses
Benefits
- A source of dietary fibre, which helps support regular bowel habits
- Helps support digestive health as part of a balanced diet
- A plant source of omega-3 fatty acid (ALA)
- Helps support a feeling of fullness as part of a balanced diet
- A source of antioxidants, protein, calcium and magnesium
- May help support heart health as part of a healthy diet
What people commonly use it for
- Occasional constipation (Good evidence that dietary fibre supports regularity)
- Low fibre intake (Good evidence. Two tablespoons provide a notable portion of daily fibre)
- Feeling hungry between meals (Some clinical studies suggest the gel-forming fibre may support fullness)
- Low plant omega-3 intake (Good evidence that chia provides ALA)
- Sustained energy for exercise (Traditional use)
Suggested to use alongside
- Flaxseed: Another seed rich in omega-3 and fibre
- Protein powder: Blends easily into smoothies
- Probiotic: Supports friendly gut bacteria
The science behind it
Chia seeds are about 35 to 40 per cent fibre by weight. Roughly 80 per cent of that is insoluble fibre, which adds bulk, and the rest is soluble fibre (a mucilage). When wet, the mucilage forms a gel that slows the movement of food through the stomach and helps feed beneficial bacteria in the large bowel.
Chia is also one of the richest plant sources of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an essential omega-3 fat. The body converts only a small percentage of ALA to EPA and even less to DHA, so chia complements, but does not replace, oily fish or algal oil for those omega-3s.
Chia contains plant compounds such as chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid and quercetin, as well as calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and complete protein with all essential amino acids.
- Whole seeds: best soaked first. The outer coat is tough, so dry whole seeds can pass through less digested.
- Ground chia: easier to digest and release nutrients.
- Soaking: 1 tablespoon in a small cup of liquid for about 15 minutes makes a gel.
Human trials on cholesterol and blood sugar are small and mixed, so chia is best seen as a nutritious food rather than a quick fix. See the NIH and Examine.com for evidence summaries.
Product details & ingredients
- Size: 3lb
- Gluten free
- Organic
- Non-GMO
Gluten Free
VEGAN
Always read the label and follow the directions for use. This information is general in nature and not medical advice. If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional.
Supplier ref: 3 Pounds Certified Organic Black Chia Seeds- Raw, Gluten-Free, Non-Gmo
Common questions
What are the benefits of chia seeds?
They are a source of fibre, plant omega-3, protein and minerals. They help support digestion and regularity as part of a balanced diet.
How much chia should I eat a day?
Many people start with 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon, up to 2 tablespoons daily. Build up slowly and drink plenty of water.
Do I need to soak chia seeds?
Soaking is recommended. It makes the seeds easier to digest, and dry seeds should not be eaten in large amounts without liquid.
Can I eat chia seeds dry?
A small sprinkle on yoghurt or cereal is fine with plenty of fluid. Avoid eating dry seeds by the spoonful, as they can swell and cause discomfort.
Are chia seeds better than flaxseed?
Both are good sources of fibre and ALA. Chia does not need grinding, and flax is richer in lignans. Many people enjoy both.
Can chia seeds cause bloating?
A sudden jump in fibre can cause wind or bloating. Start small, soak the seeds and drink plenty of water.
Safety
Always take with plenty of fluid, and do not swallow dry seeds in large amounts, as they swell and can cause choking or blockage, especially with swallowing difficulties. Speak to your healthcare professional if you take blood thinning, blood pressure or blood sugar medicines, or have a seed allergy.
About the maker
This product comes from a smaller independent supplier. Supporting small and family-owned makers is a big part of what we do.
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