Why not boost your health by taking superfood supplements? Chia seed, flax seed and hemp seed are a great source of Omega-3 proteins and magnesium and they’re easy to spread on yogurt and smoothies or to mix into baked goods dough. These superfood supplements are relatively low in calories but they’re high in amino acids, which makes them an excellent source of plant-based protein for vegetarians, vegans and raw foodists. Read on to learn more about how chia seed, flax seed and hemp can help you improve your health and I think you’ll agree that these supplements are worth adding to your diet:
Chia seed
Using Chia seed for nourishment dates back to the Aztecs and Incas. Chia seeds are gluten-free and packed with Omega-3 proteins, fiber, and antioxidants. To prepare: Soak the chia seed in water for 5 minutes to create a gel that you can then add to oatmeal, yogurt, smoothies or mixed into baked goods dough. Two tablespoons of chia seed provides the following nutrition: 120 calories, 6 g fat, and 6 g protein in addition to the following USDA’s Recommended Dietary Allowances: 16% calcium, 12% iron and 20% magnesium.
Flax seed
Flax seed is one of the most powerful plant foods in existence. Scientific studies suggest it can help reduce your risk of diabetes, cancer and strokes and it can reduce the symptoms of menopause. Flax seed has been cultivated in ancient Georgia as far back as 30,000 years ago and in Babylon as early as 3000 BC. You’ll find flax seed already added to oatmeal, crackers and frozen waffles but you can prepare your own recipes with flax seed. For instance, you can add a spoonful to a glass of juice or water or a bowl of cold cereal or you can add a little to mustard or mayonnaise before spreading it on your sandwich. You can also add a spoonful of flax seed to vegetables, soups, protein shakes, smoothies and yogurt. In addition, you can grind flax seed and add it to the flour when you make baked goods. Flax seed is a great source of fiber and Omega 3 fatty acids and 2 tablespoons of flax seeds provides the following nutrition: 160 calories, 10 g fat, and 6 g protein in addition to the following USDA’s Recommended Dietary Allowances: 13% magnesium.
Hemp seed
Hemp is one of the world’s most nutritious plants and is a great source of protein for vegans and raw foodists. Hemp seed is an excellent source of Omega-3 and Omega-6 essential fatty acids, essential amino acids, potassium, magnesium, iron and antioxidants, especially Vitamin E. You can spread hemp seeds on top of a salad, granola, smoothies and desserts or mix it into baked goods dough. Two tablespoons of hemp seed provides the following nutrition: 113 calories, 9 g fat, and 1.2 g protein in addition to the following USDA’s Recommended Dietary Allowances: 10% iron, 6% iron, and 33% phosphorus, 33% magnesium and 17% zinc.
(Photo courtesy of Gabriela Ruellan)
