As the popularity of chia seeds starts to increase, many people are starting to wonder just how much is too much. Chia seeds have been praised for their numerous health benefits and as such, it is important that we know the right amount of chia seed sot consume per day.
Chia seeds are native to Mexico and Guatemala, but they have now spread globally due to their purported health benefits. These tiny black or white seeds have a high nutritional value.
These little powerhouses contain concentrated amounts of fiber, protein, Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins B & C and minerals like magnesium and calcium. They are also rich in antioxidants which help protect against cell damage caused by free radicals.
With all these amazing health benefits linked with consuming chia seeds regularly, what’s the ideal daily intake?
The fact remains that there’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to daily consumption of chia seeds since everyone’s body has different dietary needs. However, certain factors should be considered before determining the optimal amount an individual should consume based on age group and other factors.
Bearing this mind let us take a closer look at how much chia seed you can eat each day based on science-backed recommendations:
Daily Chia Seeds Consumption for Health Benefits
The suggested serving size (daily) varies among experts according to your level of activity/age range/gender or weight goals desired thus;
1. For adults: The recommended dose by dietitians and nutritionists is usually between 20 -35 grams (2 -3 tbsp.) eaten whole or sprouted every day.
For people seeking optimal heart health-and those diagnosed with chronic conditions such as diabetes mellitus-, consuming about 25 grams (1 oz.) each day will offer substantial protection.
Diabetes patients who had continued intake over six months saw drops in blood pressure levels along with declines in markers tied with inflammation indicated;
a study published in Nutrition Research in 2016.
2. For Pregnant women: While the nutritional value of chia seeds makes them an excellent addition to the diet, pregnant and breastfeeding mothers may need to monitor their intake levels in line with reputable health authorities guidelines for valuable clues on optimal consumption.
A group of researchers, for instance, discouraged very high doses during pregnancy due to certain side effects that could jeopardize fetal safety.They suggested limiting daily seed serving size to about 15 grams each day or less while expectant as well as nursing mothers can use an amount within this range too.
3. For Kids –children under age four should avoid consuming whole chia seeds. Parents must never force kids into anything; smoothies often make a great conduit for introducing chia and other unconventional foods aimed at better eating habits besides sweet ripe fruit mix-ins so forth.Children above age four may consume up to two tablespoons (about 20 grams) per day accompanied by plenty of water or other liquids.
4. A positive dietary supplement – when adding Chia Seeds powder into your meals without consuming too much soluble fiber is doable thus cutting out extra additives linked with capsule forms supplements containing omega-3 fatty-acids .
5. Fitness enthusiast/weight loss candidates- If you’re looking forward to losing weight without going overboard then incorporating about one tablespoon (five grams) every morning alongside creative weight-loss measures could help achieve goals.
Chia Seeds Nutritional Content Breakdown
When taking any dietary supplement/natural food source related query,nutrition deserves more attention than quantity consumed alone.Here are some key points:
Calories: Two tablespoon equivalent contain approximately131 calories thereby counting towards additional daily caloric intakes though depending on users energy requirements/dietary needs/goals desired
Protein & amino acids profile : In terms protein content ,one ounce equivalent contains around four grammes.Most importantly,the body can absorb amino acids present within With 9 essential amino acids as building blocks of proteins)
Fiber & Carbs: Each two tablespoon equivalent contains a whopping 11 grammes which is around three times the recommended intake per serving making them incredibly satiating. Eat up to twice this amount if you are targeting bulk requirements.
Micro -Nutrient Content ;Chia seeds contain high levels of minerals like calcium,phosphorous,manganese and magnesium alongside vitamins A,E,C,K & B vitamin complex
Omega-3 fatty acid profile : Chia seeds provide more omega-3 acids than any vegetable-based food source available,giving about4.9 gramme equ ivalent in each ounce (about 28 grammes) providing health benefits ranging from toxin removal from bloodstreams,tissue repair,reduction symptoms such brain inflammation among others,
Precautions and Possible Drawbacks with Consuming Too Much Chia Seeds per Day
It’s generally safe for most people to consume chia seed daily at the appropriate amounts – but consuming too much may lead to unintended side effects. Below are some possible drawbacks associated with overeating chia seed:
1.Choking risk – whole dry,washed-down with insufficient fluids may cause choking/difficulty swallowing thus advisable ensuring adequate liquid supply while eating them .
2.Gastrointestinal distress – excessive consumption can result in digestive problems due fiber overload.An increase in belly size/discomfort/fluids-stool consistency changes might be evident
if fiber consumed surpasses the individual tolerable limit(Thus needing reduced-intake or water supplementation)
3.Interference With Medications:-People who take medications for medical conditions should discuss chia-seed consumption safety concerns/recommendations.A high-fibre diet posed obstacles during chemotherapy suggested a research review published
in Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition and Metabolic Care in February 2010.Taking medication together with other supplements containing Omega-6 without getting prescription guidance could worsen pre-existing inflammatory ailments or lead new complications.
Conclusion
Given how essential chia seeds nutritional contents are, we can all add them to our diets-enhancing supplement. Moderation is the key when it it comes these tiny powerhouses guarantees safety while providing beneficial effects on heart health, diabetes mellitus,liver function etc.Besides fiber,having nutrients that boost body functioning goes beyond exceeding any daily dietary recommendations and should be taken with caution always.If you plan on frequently eating Chia Seeds consult a certified nutritionist or dietician first for individual recommendations.