Chia seeds contain all nine essential amino acids, according to Harvard Health. Besides buckwheat, edamame, and quinoa, dairy, eggs, fish, pork, and poultry .
Chia seeds are a surprise source of endogenous amino acids, which are needed for energy synthesis and immunological function.
Chia seeds provide fiber. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics says chia seeds have 10 grams of fiber per ounce (approximately 2 teaspoons).
Harvard Health reports that polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids in chia seeds can reduce heart disease and stroke. Eczema, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis may benefit from omega-3s.
Chia seeds have omega-3 and heart-healthy fats. Chia seeds provide 9 grams of fat per serving, 8 of which are heart-healthy, according to the Mayo Clinic. Chia seeds are nutritious.
Chia seeds contain calcium, iron, magnesium, and zinc. Zinc is needed for cell growth and calcium and magnesium for bone health.
Chia seeds give meals and snacks a low-calorie crunch. Chia seeds have 138 calories per ounce (28 grams or two tablespoons).
Chia seeds may lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglycerides, according to new studies. Chia seeds promote heart health.
Chia seeds' fiber and other nutrients may regulate blood sugar. Chia-seed bread reduced post-meal blood sugar spikes in healthy adults, according to a 2013 study.
Many observational studies suggest that getting enough of these nutrients is critical for bone mineral density, which indicates bone strength.
Chia seeds are rich in fiber, which promotes digestive health. Fiber-rich diets protect against colorectal cancer, according to the Mayo Clinic.