Organic Chia Seeds: Rich Source of Omega 3

Chia seeds are an unprocessed, whole-grain food which are being widely consumed by fitness enthusiasts as a superfood. It comes from the desert plant Salvia hispanica native to Mexico and dating back to Mayan and Aztec civilizations. Chia seeds are a nutrition dense food containing a good amount of  Protein, Water Soluble Fiber, Antioxidants, and many other Micronutrients. Chia seeds Omega 3 content is also high. 

But is it high enough to call chia seeds a rich source of Omega 3? Let’s learn more about chia seeds Omega 3 content. 

Chia seeds and Omega 3

There is a general perception that one can only get enough omega 3 from animal based sources like fish. Before we discuss the factual and logical accuracy of this statement, let’s understand what omega 3 is and what makes it so important. 

What is omega 3?

Omega-3s are a family of polyunsaturated essential fatty acids which the body can’t produce hence we need to get them from diet. They play an instrumental role in our body. 

The three most important types of omega-3 namely: 

• ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), 
• DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), and 
• EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)

ALA is found mostly in plants, while DHA and EPA are found mainly in animal foods and algae. EPA and DHA, provide foundational support for these trillions of cells in the human body. Most omega-3s reside in our cell membranes post consumption, and act as the gatekeepers to our cells. EPA and DHA also promote the fluidity of cell membranes, which results in enhancement of their responsiveness to their environment. Responding optimally to their environment is crucial for proper functioning of the body. Research finds that EPA and DHA help maintain a healthy inflammatory response. 

Deficiency of Omega-3

There is mounting research which links omega-3 deficiency to a prolonged inflammatory response. This can lead to a wide range of health issues like in heart, immune system, brain, mental, prenatal, and neonatal health. 

Chia Seeds Omega 3

As we discussed earlier, animal based sources (fish) of omega 3 are rich in EPA and DHA while plant based sources of omega 3 contain ALA. Studies suggest that chia seeds omega 3 content is high but they are a good source of EPA and ALA but can’t provide DHA. The body can convert ALA into EPA and DHA but the process is highly inefficient. 

Hence if you’re a vegan then along with chia seeds you should consume algae oil to supplement for the EPA and DHA needs of your body. 

Also a permanent tip for every meal you prepare- organically produced ingredients are rich in nutrients and affect our overall wellness positively. Only the food that is cooked with love with the organic ingredients can only be wholesome food.

Try 24 Mantra Organic Chia Seeds and savour the taste of organic goodness.