Little Wonders: 7 Healthy Chia Seed Recipes to Revolutionize Your Diet

It's almost impossible to talk about chia seeds without getting the catchy '80s jingle stuck in your head. These days you hear about chia all the time, but it has nothing to do with the beloved green "pet that grows." So what's the fuss about? What are the health benefits of chia seeds and what exactly are they? Chia is an ancient superfood dating back to the Aztecs and Mayans. The word "chia" comes from the Mayan word "strength," which is quite fitting considering the Mayans believed a single tablespoon of chia seeds could sustain a warrior for a full day. The edible seeds are packed with heart healthy omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, and fiber. A single ounce of chia seeds contains 137 calories, a whopping 11 grams of fiber, and 18% of the recommended daily amount of calcium. Chia seeds can also aid with weight loss as they absorb liquid in your digestive system, expanding to make you feel fuller. Unlike flax seeds, chia seeds do not need to be ground to be absorbed by the body. Not convinced? Check out these 7 delicious chia seed recipes! - By Heather Neal

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