And chia! These two little powerful seeds are foods I’m working to incorporate into my diet daily. If you haven’t tried these ancient tiny nutrition powerhouses, consider giving them a shot.
Chia seeds
Ch-ch-ch-chia! This seed can not only grow grass hair on a ceramic Homer Simpson’s head but is high in omega 3’s and fiber. Chia was a diet mainstay back in the Aztec and Mayan cultures. Chia seeds come from the plant Salvia hispanica, grown in Mexico. Two tablespoons of the seeds contain 120 calories, 4564 mg of heart healthy omega-3 fatty acids, 10 grams of fiber, and 6 grams of protein!
Flax seeds
Flaxseed was eaten in Babylon in 3000 BC. This seed is another great source of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and fiber! Two tablespoons of this seed contains 60 calories, 2400mg of omega-3, 4 grams of fiber, and 3 grams of protein. Additionally, flaxseed contains lignans, a type of plant estrogen that may help protect against cancer. Look for ground flaxseed in stores to ensure you are able to fully reap the benefits of this food. You also may see golden or brown flax seed available; either is fine to eat.
Using the Seeds
Both chia and flax are quite versatile and easily to incorporate into many foods. Both seeds have a slightly nutty taste. My favorite way to eat flaxseed or chia seed is to mix it into my morning oatmeal along with some berries. You can also sprinkle either seed on top of any cereal, pudding, salad, or yogurt. Chia or flaxseed mixed with water can also be used as an egg substitute in baked goods and pancakes.
(Photo courtesy of
Chia seeds
Ch-ch-ch-chia! This seed can not only grow grass hair on a ceramic Homer Simpson’s head but is high in omega 3’s and fiber. Chia was a diet mainstay back in the Aztec and Mayan cultures. Chia seeds come from the plant Salvia hispanica, grown in Mexico. Two tablespoons of the seeds contain 120 calories, 4564 mg of heart healthy omega-3 fatty acids, 10 grams of fiber, and 6 grams of protein!
Flax seeds
Flaxseed was eaten in Babylon in 3000 BC. This seed is another great source of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and fiber! Two tablespoons of this seed contains 60 calories, 2400mg of omega-3, 4 grams of fiber, and 3 grams of protein. Additionally, flaxseed contains lignans, a type of plant estrogen that may help protect against cancer. Look for ground flaxseed in stores to ensure you are able to fully reap the benefits of this food. You also may see golden or brown flax seed available; either is fine to eat.
Using the Seeds
Both chia and flax are quite versatile and easily to incorporate into many foods. Both seeds have a slightly nutty taste. My favorite way to eat flaxseed or chia seed is to mix it into my morning oatmeal along with some berries. You can also sprinkle either seed on top of any cereal, pudding, salad, or yogurt. Chia or flaxseed mixed with water can also be used as an egg substitute in baked goods and pancakes.
(Photo courtesy of