Chia Seeds???

cole_carter
cole_carter Posts: 174 Member
in Health and Weight Loss
Has anyone tried Chia seeds?

I read this running book that talks about Chia seeds being a near-miraculous super-food so I bought some. It has Omega3 fatty acids, all kinds of minerals, fiber and a complete protein. It was used by native central americans to increase endurance for hundreds of years.

It is also supposed to suppress appetite, regulate blood sugar and help keep you hydrated.

I tried some this AM before going out for my regular Saturday extensive exercise. According to MFP I burned over 1500 calories and don't feel a bit fatigued or hungry. I dissolved 2 tablespoons of the seeds into a glass of water (about 6 oz) with a couple drops of lemon juice. The seeds massively expanded and turned into a lemon flavored Gel.

I am looking to see if anyone else has some experience with chia seeds in their diet. I am questioning whether is something to the claims in my running book or whether it is just psychosomatic.

Replies

  • cara4fit
    cara4fit Posts: 111 Member
    Chia seeds are awesome! The way you used them sounds great, and it's not your imagination at all. I use chia seeds in my green smoothies and they make the smoothies very filling!:)
  • Lina4Lina
    Lina4Lina Posts: 712 Member
    I eat chia regularly but I don't think they are near miraculous. A good healthy fat to include in our diet is all.
  • TheRealParisLove
    TheRealParisLove Posts: 1,907 Member
    I've never heard that about chia seeds. I've been using them for about week now, and have noticed some serious improvements in performance this week. It could be coincidental as I also increased my calorie intake at the same time.

    I alternate between chia and flax in my smoothies. Both are good, but have different nutritional benefits. Today I began adding psyllium husks to help with regularity and to help stay full longer.
  • WickedPixie1
    WickedPixie1 Posts: 111 Member
    I use them everyday and have done for months. On top of what you said, I find they keep things moving regular as well.
    I toss them into yoghurt, soups, stews...basically anything with liquid. Never tried the drink thing though...I might try what you did since I'm not really a breakfast person and usually make do with my yog and chia. That would make a nice change, filling, but still low cal!
  • BioQueen
    BioQueen Posts: 694 Member
    I use them every day in oatmeal and in omelettes. I don't think they are a solve-most-problems supplement. I think it has LOADS of awesome stuff, but I don't think they have too much affect on my appetite.
  • kimg68
    kimg68 Posts: 64
    I have been using Chia Seeds for about a year now, it seems not too many people have heard about them. I usually soak a bunch in a tupperware and keep it in the fridge, and then put a couple of spoonfuls in my morning smoothie. I love them and can always feel a difference in days that I don't have my smoothie with chia. I always feel like I can handle my runs so much better on days I have my chia seeds.
  • fairestthings
    fairestthings Posts: 335 Member
    As you may know, chia seeds were used by ancient tribes in the south to help prevent hunger while on long journeys. People do add them to water, but those with texture issues (moi!) cannot stand that.

    I often add them to my Greek yogurt and muesli. You can add them anywhere they can expand, as long as you don't mind the gel. Oatmeal, cereal, yogurt, milk, any drink. I have to watch because, while healthy, I want to maintain eating my BMR and chia seeds definitely suppress my appetite!
  • uwdawg07
    uwdawg07 Posts: 372 Member
    I have heard they are super healthy! I just picked some up from the store yesterday.
  • yancymichele
    yancymichele Posts: 66 Member
    i've used them for a couple months. in protein shakes or yogurt mostly. I do feel full longer, also I think its helped with digestion.

    theres also a drink called "mama chia" vitality drink at grocery store, that tastes pretty good.just unusual texture.:)
  • Aventuria
    Aventuria Posts: 151
    I use ground chia seeds in my breakfast shakes or in my Wheat Bix with milk and fruit. Yummy, but not miraculous... :wink:
  • Koldnomore
    Koldnomore Posts: 1,613 Member
    As you may know, chia seeds were used by ancient tribes in the south to help prevent hunger while on long journeys. People do add them to water, but those with texture issues (moi!) cannot stand that.

    I'm still trying to figure out what I can add them too that won't gross me out :(
  • sabgoe
    sabgoe Posts: 65 Member
    I often use them when I make cereal bars. :)
  • FelicityEliza36
    FelicityEliza36 Posts: 252 Member
    Check out pinterest, they have some chia seed recipes.

    I have had them in oatmeal before - seems to taste (texture wise) the best :)
  • molly_grue
    molly_grue Posts: 215 Member
    I use them in my fridge oats but they don't expand. Imma soak some in water and see what happens!
  • astrylian
    astrylian Posts: 194 Member
    Do not forget that the mind is also plays a massive factor when it comes to appetite suppressants. If we enjoy eating, and we want to eat- sometimes we tell our body that we are hungry. I put chia seeds in my overnight oats for the morning, and I am full by lunch, I am not sure to what degree the chia seeds help, considering the filling attributes of oatmeal and peanut butter, but I certainly -think- I am full, and I don't mind being fooled by the hype, if I -feel- healthier and satiated with them included. :smokin:

    http://blog.thrivefoods.net/2009/07/chia-seeds-top-10-benefits.html
  • Genenecote
    Genenecote Posts: 5
    Wonderful addition to my diet. Full of omegas 3-6-9 and a source of complete protein ( soy, hemp and chia seeds are the only source of plant based complete protein). ESP. Good for vegetarians and vegans. They do make you feel fuller.

    I throw in a handful in most casseroles, breakfast cereal and home made gluten free bread.

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