The two nutrient rich seeds – flax seed and chia seeds both are well preferred foods of may part of the world.Flax seeds have been consumed as food for around 6,000 years!! Flaxseeds, sometimes called linseeds, are small, brown, tan or golden-colored seeds that are the richest sources of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids, called alpha-linolenic acid in the world! It also cotains good amount of fiber, protein, vitamin B1, vitamin B6, phosphorous, selenium and iron. It is good for cholesterol problems, heart conditions, for skin and hair, good for weight loss ! They are gluten free too !!

Despite their tiny size, chia seeds are among the most nutritious foods on the planet.  Chia is the ancient Mayan word for “strength.” Despite being known as one of the oldest staple food, chia gained importance quite recently as people realized its nutritional benefits.  It contains good amount of fiber, protein, fat, magnesium, manganese, calcium and phosphorous. Chia also contain a decent amount of Zinc, Vitamin B3 (Niacin), Potassium, Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) and Vitamin B2. The best part is  chia seeds are a “whole grain” food, are usually grown organically, are non-GMO and naturally free of gluten !!

Both these amazing foods are good for weight loss. Make flax seed chutney powder (see recipe in vegetarian recipe of this site),  add to salad, add to cereals, roast and add it to curry and add it to smoothie. Chia can be cooked and can be added to salad, make upma, can be replaced with rice or cracked wheat.

Image credit: https://www.nccih.nih.gov/