The Planetary Health Diet EAT

However, available research has been more favorable towards a diet containing omega-3-rich foods rather than on chia seeds alone. Two tablespoons of chia seeds (1 ounce or 28 grams) contain about 140 calories, 4 grams of protein, 11 grams of fiber, 7 grams of unsaturated fat, 18% RDA for calcium, and trace minerals including zinc and copper. Chia seeds provide a rich source of dietary fiber, protein, and healthy fats, making them a more nutrient-dense option compared to many fiber supplements. If you have any underlying health conditions or concerns, consult with a healthcare professional before adding chia seeds to your diet. The recommended daily dose of chia seeds for weight loss is about 1-2 tablespoons (15-30 grams) per day. Chia seeds contain protein and fiber, two nutrients that help with weight loss. Still, it’s worth exploring whether chia seeds may curb appetite. Chia water is made by soaking chia seeds in a glass of water and letting the mixture sit for 20 minutes. Let’s take a look at some of the claims being made about chia water and what the science says — and doesn’t say — about how it may help weight loss. Cultivated as a food source as early as 3500 BC, it was offered to Aztec gods in religious ceremonies. Chia seeds come from the plant Salvia hispanica L., and were at one time a major food crop in Mexico and Guatemala. Little did we know that those popular ceramic pets sprouting grass “hair” were a foretelling of the even greater success their seeds would have in edible form 25 years later.

Supporting Healthy Digestion

Chia Seeds for Weight Loss: Discover the Right Amount for Optimal Results Pancakes are an ideal breakfast meal, and the presence of chia seeds offers a perfect chance to take advantage of the seeds’ nutritional value. Also, incorporating chia seeds into the soup and stew enhances its nutritional value with little effect on taste. Add 1-2 tablespoons of chia seeds to the soup or stew during the final minutes of cooking time. (If you’re unsure, Dr. Kim says that chia seed allergies tend to overlap with sesame seed allergies.) Chia seed allergies do exist, so if you have one, stay away from this health food. You’re still getting plenty of nutrients and reaping the health benefits. For starters, these tiny seeds are a good source of soluble and insoluble fiber, both of which are good for your digestive health, Brissette says. Chia seeds have been a pantry essential for health-conscious cooks for years, but most people are still missing out on their myriad benefits. He created and implemented the … Ellen’s professional background is in nutrition and food systems. Sebastian also supports EAT’s efforts in building strategic relationships with foundations, companies, governments and other key partners, and participates in the … She serves as the lead for the communications strategy of the 2025 EAT Stockholm Food Forum, positioning global food systems transformation at the forefront of international dialogue. It is a rich source of calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium, and all these minerals aid in building bones in the body. Antioxidants help the human body in cell repair and can help fight various diseases such as heart disease and cancer. It is a low-calorie seed that can be used in many recipes and increase its health value.
  • One bite of this breakfast bowl, and you’ll love the creamy texture of the chia pudding paired with the fluffy quinoa.
  • This process helps protect the stomach lining, regulate intestinal motility, and support nutrient transport.
  • The 6 Week Summer Meal Plan is focused on the science-backed tips, tools and recipes to help achieve a body recomposition goal.
  • THERE’S NO SHORTAGE of weight loss advice on TikTok.
  • Chia seeds and lemon for weight loss after a workout help with rehydration and recovery.
  • Today I’m sharing the 10 high protein foods (plus recipes!) you should eat for breakfast to maximize for a sustainable fat loss goal.
  • For healthy adults, chia seeds are considered safe for daily consumption when eaten in moderate amounts, typically 1–2 tablespoons per day.
  • However, if you toss some chia seeds and sautéed veggies into your bowl, you’ll be adding some protein and healthy fats to mix, which can slow digestion and help you feel full for longer.
  • For weight loss support, 1–2 tablespoons per day is sufficient, ideally consumed before meals or added to breakfast.
Another option is to create chia puddings by mixing them with your choice of milk or plant-based alternative and allowing the mixture to sit for a few hours or overnight. While chia seeds are generally safe for most people, some individuals may experience side effects, particularly if consumed in excessive amounts. When chia seeds are mixed with liquid, they absorb moisture and expand up to times their original size. As always, listen to your body and consult with healthcare professionals to tailor your diet and lifestyle to your unique needs. Remember, effective weight loss is ultimately about creating a sustainable plan that works for you. However, it’s crucial to remember that there’s no magic bullet for weight loss. Remember, chia seed water isn’t the only way to consume these nutritious seeds! They can offer personalized advice regarding the side effects of chia seeds in Water and appropriate consumption levels for you. Soaking them first, as in chia seed water, mitigates this risk. However, its other advantages contribute to greater well-being. On consumption, it absorbs water and expands in your stomach. Chronic inflammation triggers various health conditions. They help fight free radicals roaming in your body. It helps in the reduction of high blood pressure. While they’re not a magical fat-melting solution (wouldn’t that be nice?), eating chia seeds for weight loss can absolutely support your healthy weight management goals. Chia seeds are a nutrient-dense food that is rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats, making them an ideal addition to a weight loss diet. Packed with fiber, protein, and omega-3, chia seeds are a nutrient-dense addition to any weight loss diet. So, we can say that the high amount of fiber, omega-3, and protein in chia seeds may benefit weight loss when accompanied by a healthy and balanced meal plan. While they’re not a magical fat-melting solution (wouldn’t that be nice?), eating chia seeds for weight loss can support your healthy weight management goals. This amount provides enough fiber and nutrients to support weight loss without adding too many calories. Soaking also improves the seeds’ ability to release nutrients like fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, making them more effective for weight loss. Soaked chia seeds are far better and best recommended when it comes to weight loss.
  • Tiny but packed with energy, chia seeds are considered nature's nutritional gems.
  • To make it, mix 1/4 cup of chia seeds with 1 cup of your choice of milk (dairy or plant-based) and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight.
  • Incorporating chia seeds into your routine is a small but impactful step toward sustainable weight loss program.
  • If you’re looking for ways to incorporate chia seeds into your diet, Kopp recommends starting with a basic chia pudding.
  • Olivia brings smart, simple ideas to everyday life — helping you live better with less effort.
  • Drinking chia seed water in the morning can support hydration and digestive regularity at the start of the day.
Instead of the shared ideas, you can drink chia seeds without eating many calories. However, you need to know how to use chia seeds to lose belly fat. If you are wondering, does chia seeds reduce belly fat? Unlike other foods, chia seeds take significant time to digest. You can try lemon water with chia seeds. Understanding Chia Seeds: A Nutritional Powerhouse Whether you’re managing PMS symptoms, postpartum recovery, or perimenopause, the health benefits of chia seeds make them a smart (and easy) choice. So, when people ask “what are the health benefits of chia seeds? For a morning packed with antioxidant benefits and weight-friendly energy, combine chia seeds, lemon balm, and cranberry juice. Then I committed to adding 1 tablespoon of chia seeds to my morning smoothie every day for a week. Yes, chia seeds are great for gut health. Their high fiber content, combined with essential nutrients, makes them a smart choice for anyone looking to improve their overall health while pursuing weight loss goals. From supporting heart health and digestion to helping with weight management and blood sugar control, the benefits are substantial. People taking blood thinners or blood pressure medications should consult their doctor before adding chia seeds regularly. Nutritional Value Of Chia Seeds One of the best ways to consume chia seeds is with healthy fats, such as avocado or nuts, which can enhance the absorption of omega-3 fatty acids. This amount provides a good balance of fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids, which can help support weight loss. Despite the numerous benefits of chia seeds for weight loss, there are some common misconceptions that need to be addressed. From gut health to glowing skin, weight loss to antioxidant power, chia seeds check a lot of boxes. This study suggests that chia seeds can support weight loss goals by providing a sense of fullness. What’s the best way to eat chia seeds for weight loss? I wanted to see how to eat chia seeds for weight loss. Chia seeds have been cherished for centuries, originating in the diets of ancient Mayan and Aztec cultures. The flavorful herb is full of antioxidants that may help regulate blood sugar Edamame, lentils and chicken breast are good sources of protein For very young children, especially babies and toddlers, it’s crucial to take extra precautions. Moderation is best with any food,” Kopp recommends.
  • Chia seeds provide sustained energy release thanks to their balanced ratio of protein, fats, and fiber.
  • This impressive nutrient density explains why chia seeds are favored in holistic nutrition circles—not just for weight management but also for heart, bone, and metabolic health.
  • The main vitamins present in chia seeds are A, C and E.
  • For further weight loss aid, you can consult your dieticians.
  • For a refreshing drink, mix a tablespoon of chia seeds into a glass of water, let it sit for 10 minutes, and enjoy.
  • Though tiny, Chia seeds are a superfood and offer a wide range of health benefits.
  • Follow her on Instagram and get her wellness content and recipes at
  • But these health claims are unclear and mostly based on animal studies.
Today, you can find them in everything from drinks and baked goods to cereals and snacks. With obesity on the rise, finding sustainable ways to manage weight has become more important than ever. This site started with me, but it’s grown thanks to my two favorite collaborators. Whether you’re dipping, topping, or just munching straight from the jar, they’re a wholesome treat that doesn’t skimp on flavor. The fresh berries add a juicy burst, making it a perfect balance of flavors. I love layering it with granola and yogurt for a quick breakfast parfait or spreading it on warm biscuits for a cozy weekend treat. It’s become my go-to for topping toast, swirling into yogurt, or, let’s be honest, eating straight from the jar. It’s a refreshing way to start the day, and the layers make it feel a bit more special than your average breakfast. Chia seed water isn’t the only way to fill yourself up on fiber without going overboard on calories. Maybe it’s pudding, or maybe it’s quirky houseplants. 5 ‘healthy’ habits playing havoc with your gut health Introduce them gradually into your diet; this really applies to any high-fibre food, since you need to allow your digestive system some time to adjust. Fiber-rich foods tend to keep you full for longer. Undoubtedly, the soluble fiber reduces your appetite and stops bloating. Sometimes they can trigger your metabolic activity to activate the pro-fat-burning mode. Statistically, the high fiber fights off inflammation. Instead of using high-calorie or processed thickeners, you can use chia seeds to add a creamy texture to soups, sauces, and salad dressings. If you prefer a quick and easy way to include chia seeds in your diet, simply sprinkle them over your regular meals. Drinking chia seed water before meals can also prevent overeating, making it a great natural appetite suppressant. If you’re looking for an effective and natural way to lose weight, chia seeds might be the perfect solution. You can add chia seeds to salads, soups, or even enjoy them as a simple topping for a light dessert or fruit. Recipes like chia pudding, smoothies, and energy bars are great ways to incorporate chia seeds into your diet while supporting weight loss. This means that we can maximize the benefits of the other healthy foods we consume alongside them, creating a more balanced diet that supports weight loss. Remember, it’s important to incorporate chia seeds into a healthy and balanced diet as part of a weight loss plan. Rich in fibre, protein, and healthy fats, chia seeds helps you to lose weight by boosting metabolism, stabilizing blood sugar, and keeping you full. With their high fiber and protein content, chia seeds can help suppress appetite, boost metabolism, and support healthy digestion.

Delicious Recipes With Chia Seeds

When blended with liquid and fruits, chia seeds hydrate properly and are gentle on digestion. Chia pudding works especially well as a breakfast or healthy snack because it provides sustained energy and keeps you full for hours. This method maximizes satiety, supports digestion, and creates a dessert-like texture without added sugar. It’s made by soaking chia seeds in milk or a plant-based alternative until they fully gel.

Chia Seed Recipes for Weight Loss

  • By incorporating chia seeds into your diet through options like puddings, smoothies, salads, and more, you can enhance nutritional intake while supporting weight management goals.
  • Known for his thoughtful reflections and down-to-earth style, Biswas blends personal anecdotes with rich culinary insights—from quiet village kitchens to lively urban eateries.
  • Soaking chia seeds helps to break down their phytic acid, a natural compound that can inhibit nutrient absorption.
  • The blueberry pudding is grain-free and contains cashews, chia and dates.
  • They work best with a balanced diet and exercise.
  • Think of it like adding a fiber supplement to your diet.
  • Remember, while chia seed water offers many benefits, it should complement, not replace, a balanced diet rich in whole foods.
  • With lemon and a sprinkle of fresh mint and basil, this pudding has enough zing to wake you up without your go-to cup of Starbucks.
  • When the seeds are soaked, they expand and thus give a filing effect in your stomach, which is otherwise not possible with dry chia seeds.
Your body might not be able to handle the extra fiber, which might give you an upset stomach if you try to eat too much. Even if you don’t get up to 4-5 tablespoons a day, a good moderate amount for weight loss would be around 2 tablespoons. Eating chia seeds is pretty much the same as drinking them. You can start incorporating healthy smoothies into your diet with the Smoothie Diet. By prolonging the sensation of satiety, chia seeds can help reduce your calorie intake and support your weight loss journey. When consumed, chia seeds absorb water (up to 10 times their weight) and expand, which stretches your stomach and creates a feeling of fullness. Ideally, you should aim for healthy treats, and chia seeds might help you prepare more nutritious versions of your favorite sweet snacks. However, chia pudding makes an excellent addition to any diet focused on weight loss. Whether sprinkled on salads, blended into smoothies, or used to create chia pudding, the options are endless. Together, let’s explore the world of chia seeds and discover how they can fit into our daily nutrition plans. Remember to stay hydrated when consuming chia seeds, as they absorb liquid. The timing of consuming chia seeds largely depends on personal preferences and how you incorporate them into your routine.
  • Real scientific data backs the effect of chia seeds.
  • Making chia seed water is incredibly simple, requiring just a few basic ingredients.
  • Yes, chia seeds can be consumed daily as part of a balanced diet.
  • Chia seeds for weight loss are a popular trend.
  • EAT brings together expertise across science, policy, business, and communications to turn knowledge into action and drive meaningful change across food systems.
  • Here’s an example of how you can incorporate chia seeds into your salad—Poached Egg Salad with Chia Seeds.
  • Chia seeds are a fantastic source of dietary fiber, which is key to feeling full and satisfied.
Start with a half tablespoon mixed with 8-10 ounces of water. “It’s rich in insoluble fiber, which helps to get things moving in your digestive tract,” says Slavin. Chia seed water may help with constipation. These compounds may reduce your risk for high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Yes, chia seeds can be an effective aid for weight loss due to their high fiber and protein content, which promote feelings of fullness and reduce appetite. Additionally, the protein content in chia seeds supports muscle health, crucial for metabolism and overall weight management. By incorporating chia seeds into your diet, you can increase your fiber intake effortlessly, supporting your weight loss goals in a natural and sustainable way. Additionally, chia seeds are low in calories and high in protein, making them a great option for those trying to maintain a healthy weight. This impressive nutritional profile means that incorporating chia seeds into your diet, particularly in water, offers a cascade of health benefits beyond just weight management, contributing to overall well-being. Chia seeds are packed with fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, promoting feelings of fullness and supporting digestive health. Nuts are high in healthy fats, protein, and fiber, but portion control is essential due to their calorie density. The high fiber content supports digestion and feeds healthy gut bacteria. Starting your day with chia seeds on an empty stomach can enhance the body's natural detoxification process, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Where can I buy chia seeds?
In this post, you’ll learn why Chia Seeds could help you to lose weight, as well as how to use Chia Seeds in order to do so. Join the millions who have discovered that Noom is the smartest way to not only lose more weight—but also keep it off—to live better, longer. Learn more about the experts behind our content on our Health Expert Team page. At Noom, we’re committed to providing health information that’s grounded in reliable science and expert review.
How to use chia seeds for weight loss
After working up your tolerance to higher fiber foods, 2 tablespoons a day is a great goal. If you’re just starting to add fiber to your diet, start with 1 tablespoon a day. “But even without this evidence, you can confidently include chia seeds in your diet,” reassures Kopp. “Since chia seeds are so high in fiber, they can cause digestive problems if consumed in excess,” cautions Kopp. For centuries, people in those regions have incorporated chia seeds into their diet — and for good reason.
Flushes body waste
No matter when you eat it, know it'll help you stay satiated. Depending on what else you add to the equation, this dish can be enjoyed as a breakfast, snack or fun dessert. Native to Central and South America, these seeds have been cultivated for centuries and today can be found in supermarkets across the UK. If you haven't tried this superfood, now is the time to change that! We love to eat, travel, cook, and eat some more! When you consume enough protein, you can preserve muscle mass while losing fat, resulting in a more toned and lean physique. Protein is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue, which is critical for weight loss. Thanks to the addition of avocado, this pudding is beyond creamy. To prepare oatmeal, boil 250 ml of milk and add oats to it. You can also add honey if you want to enhance its taste further. We all know by know how detoxification helps in clearing off all the waste from the body and feeling lighter. One group ate 30 grams of ground salba-chia daily, while the other group had a blend of oat bran, inulin, and maltodextrin every day. They followed a calorie-restricted diet, with a reduction of 500 calories per day. Chia seeds can effectively help you lose weight when combined with a calorie-restricted diet. Let’s see how these nutrients help us stay fit and healthy. Who knew a tiny seed will one day help you lose weight? You can add your favorite fruit to chia water. Soak chia seeds for 10 minutes before drinking. Try half a tablespoon of chia seeds. That's about 28 grams (g) of chia seeds. You can make your own chia seed water. Adding chia seeds to your diet has been found to be a shortcut to healthier living. A creamy and satisfying pudding packed with protein and healthy fats, ideal for a fat loss-friendly dessert or snack. When making a great chia pudding, I recommend adding in some type of additional protein (such as greek yogurt or a high quality zero sugar protein powder) as well as some low sugar fruit like strawberries. In my community, we love using chia seeds as a simple ingredient to help naturally boost satiety and achieve a weight loss goal.
  • The impressive mineral content of chia seeds—particularly calcium, phosphorus, and zinc—contributes to strong, healthy teeth.
  • Often considered a "superfood," chia seeds for weight loss have gained popularity due to their essential nutrients.
  • To avoid side effects, soak chia seeds in water or other liquids before consuming.
  • When making a great chia pudding, I recommend adding in some type of additional protein (such as greek yogurt or a high quality zero sugar protein powder) as well as some low sugar fruit like strawberries.
  • Drinking daily chia water might bore you, but we have found fun ways to enjoy chia seeds…much better!
  • Optimizing the timing and method of consuming chia seed water can enhance its effectiveness, especially when aiming for weight management and digestive support.
  • Your Mosh health practitioners may offer you a customised weight loss plan if it is suitable for your situation, but you are not obligated to accept it if you are uncomfortable in any way.
  • Plus, what you need to know to start incorporating more chia seeds into your diet.
  • If you take anticoagulant medications like warfarin, discuss chia consumption with your doctor.
Combine your favorite berries with coconut milk and chia seeds and simply blend and freeze the mixture in ice pop trays. Whether you buy nut butter at the grocery story or make it from scratch at home, the gooey spread serves as the perfect place for a few spoonfuls of chia seeds. There are a million ways to fix a bowl of oatmeal, but one of our favorite cereal topping combos is chia seeds mixed with pumpkin seeds, hemp seeds, and cinnamon. So, we suggest you swap potatoes for finely chopped cauliflower and combine with things like cheese and onions, as well as chia seeds and cornmeal for a bit of crunch. Chia seed smoothie Additionally, chia seeds contain incredibly high levels of omega-3. Chia seeds are safe to eat in moderation, but it’s important to be mindful of their high fiber content. However, chia seeds are so much more than just a tool for losing weight. Are there any side effects of consuming chia seeds? These bacteria produce short-chain fatty acids that help nourish the gut’s cells and fight off harmful bacteria, Kirschner says. “These antioxidants scavenge and neutralize free radicals that can damage cell membranes, cause cell apoptosis (death), and alter DNA, which can lead to cardiovascular disease and cancer,” Kirschner says. And should you be adding them to your yogurt or smoothie? Chia seeds are everywhere on social media — smoothies, salads, puddings, the list goes on. By adding chia seeds to your meals or snacks, you’ll find it easier to resist overeating and stay in control of your portions. From their unique ability to promote satiety to their wealth of essential nutrients, chia seeds serve as allies for your weight loss and overall wellness. If you’re looking for ways to incorporate chia seeds into your diet, Kopp recommends starting with a basic chia pudding. To maximize their benefit, they should be part of the healthy foods you eat every day. What’s more, the omega-3 fatty acids present in chia seeds have been shown to help reduce inflammation, which is often linked to obesity and weight gain. The soluble fiber in chia seeds absorbs water, expanding in your stomach and creating a feeling of fullness, which can lead to reduced hunger and calorie intake. While chia seeds are a nutritious food, their high fiber content may cause digestive issues if you’re not used to consuming them. With patience, persistence, and a little creativity, you can harness the power of chia seeds to achieve your weight loss goals. Now that we’ve covered the benefits and basics of chia seeds, let’s get to the good stuff – the best chia seed mixes for weight loss! “My goal is to get up and do something new every single day,” says the 53-year-old star of Apple TV’s heist thriller “Hijack.” Building and maintaining muscle mass is important for everyone, regardless of age — and one of the strongest predictors of long-term health. “I like to add a few teaspoons to smoothies, soups, yogurt, oatmeal and even muffin batter to pump up the nutritional value. When exposed to liquid, chia seeds absorb up to 10–12 times their weight in water, forming a viscous, gel-like matrix. The high fiber content of chia seeds can cause digestive discomfort such as bloating, gas, or even constipation if consumed in large amounts without adequate hydration. These supplements, alongside a nutritious diet and supportive practices like drinking chia seed water, can play a vital role in optimizing your path to wellness. Embracing healthy habits like drinking chia seed water is a wonderful step towards holistic well-being. Mild and gentle addition to any dish, they are a staple ingredient in cuisines around the world; you can find them in curries in India and in baked goods in Europe.... While waiting to see your dentist, simple home remedies can offer temporary relief.From applying a cold compress to rinsing with salt water or si... Dr. Puneet Nayak is the visionary behind Prettislim, a wellness & nutrition community dedicated to transforming health goals into sustainable lifestyles. Drinking chia-infused beverages helps in digestion, hydration, and appetite control. This stabilization can reduce sugar cravings and maintain energy levels throughout the day, essential for those looking to lose weight. They hydrate, support digestion, reduce cravings, and help you stay on track with fat loss. A warm chia seed drink at night soothes digestion and helps prevent late-night snacking. One reason you could be feeling constantly peckish is if you’re eating too many refined, high-sugar carbohydrates. Exercising too much, high levels of stress and poor sleep can also leave us feeling constantly hungry, or it might be as simple as you're not eating enough. Nourish your health and feel fuller for longer with oats, cottage cheese, eggs and more Follow her on Instagram and get her wellness content and recipes at She is the author of numerous books, including Eating in Color and the upcoming, Everyday Snack Tray. I love eating vegetables and fruits and cannot think of a life without them. I consider myself a flexitarian as I’m not a big fan of meat and chicken but cannot take cheese, yogurt, and fish out of my life as I love their taste. But like any other food, if you go overboard, you may end up ruining your program by going over your daily calorie intake. Consuming chia seeds before exercising can help enhance stamina and performance. Adding chia seeds to your breakfast can enhance the nutrient profile, providing sustained energy and fullness. When it comes to weight loss, the food choices we make can either propel us towards our goals or hinder our progress.