Despite their small size, chia seeds are full of important nutrients. They are excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, rich in antioxidants, and they provide fiber, iron, and calcium. Omega-3 fatty acids help raise HDL cholesterol, the "good" cholesterol that protects against heart attack and stroke.
Here are some key points about chia seeds.
Chia seeds are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, antioxidants, iron, and calcium.A 28-gram, or 1-ounce, serving of chia seeds also contains 5.6 grams of protein.
Chia seeds can be eaten cooked or raw, but they should be added to another food or soaked before eating.
Eating once ounce of chia seeds each day would provide 18 percent of daily calcium needs, 27 percent of phosphorus, 30 percent of manganese, and smaller amounts of potassium and copper.
Chia seeds provide more omega-3s, calcium, phosphorus, and fiber than flaxseeds. Most people do not consume enough of these essential nutrients