Although there are many options, flax seeds and chia seeds are often popular. Chia seeds are small, oval-shaped seeds while flax seeds are flat and larger. Both are full of nutrients like protein, calcium and fiber, making them superfoods. However, you should eat flax seeds or chia seeds to improve your health. Let’s find out what experts have to say about this debate between flax seeds and chia seeds.
What are the health benefits of flaxseed? Live healthy every day
Flaxseeds have many health benefits. Photo: Unsplash
Before moving on to the weight loss debate, let’s first take a look at some of the health benefits of flaxseeds
1. Anti-inflammatory effect
Nutritionist Ramya B (India) said flaxseeds are a superfood containing omega-3 fatty acids. They help fight the body’s inflammation and prevent oxidative stress. Flaxseeds help prevent various inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.
2. Enhance intestinal health
Flaxseeds help promote gut health because they are rich in fiber, which ferments in the large intestine and improves gut health by producing short-chain fatty acids.
3. Anti-diabetic effect
Experts say flaxseeds are high in fiber and healthy fats, and if consumed regularly, they can improve insulin sensitivity.
4. Anti-cancer
Experts say that thanks to antioxidants, flaxseeds can help prevent or reduce the growth of tumors in the body. Flaxseeds also have lignans (phytoestrogens) that are thought to reduce the risk of cancers related to hormones and their imbalances.
What effects do Chia seeds have on health? Live healthy every day
Chia seeds come in two types, white and black. Photo: Unsplash
Like flaxseeds, chia seeds also have many health benefits, here are some of them:
1. Reduce the risk of heart disease
The presence of alpha-linolenic acid in chia seeds can promote heart health, helping to reduce LDL cholesterol, which many people refer to as “bad” cholesterol.
2. Good for the skin
Experts say Chia seed oil can help control eczema. It reduces the incidence of itching, heals and improves skin moisture.
3. Antioxidant effect
Chia seeds contain antioxidants such as quercetin and kaempferol, which help reduce inflammation in the body and protect the body from free radicals.
4. Improve intestinal health
Similar to flaxseeds, chia seeds also improve beneficial bacteria in the intestines and promote intestinal health, preventing constipation because they are a good source of fiber.
Flax seeds or chia seeds are better for weight loss?
Flaxseeds are better for weight loss because they have more soluble fiber. They help control appetite and provide a feeling of fullness for a long time. Therefore, they aid in weight loss. Because flaxseeds have more soluble fiber, they form a thick gel. On the other hand, Chia seeds will gain more volume if soaked in water, juice or buttermilk, you can take 2 tablespoons of flaxseeds per day to lose weight.
Chia seeds and flax seeds are superfoods, rich in nutrients but should not be eaten raw because they contain hydrogen cyanide, lead and other heavy metals. When roasted, heat destroys cyanide and other toxic elements.
You can also use ground flaxseeds to make weight loss drinks, which help you feel full longer and improve digestion.
Flaxseeds can help you lose weight but they should be part of a nutritious diet and you also need to make sure you exercise regularly to lose weight.