Chia seeds are an excellent source of antioxidants—specifically live antioxidants. The antioxidants in the seeds are actually more effective than artificial ones found in industrial food supplements. The antioxidants in chia seeds also protect the healthy fats in the seeds so they don’t spoil.

Chia seeds also help lower blood sugar, which is why they are highly recommended for diabetics. Additionally, these seeds are resistant to insulin, which is often a cause of increased abdominal fat. Besides that, chia also speeds up digestion and is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, important for brain health.

Chia seeds contain 18% calcium, which is good for bones, dental health, and oral cavity health.

The most important property—the one that made chia seeds popular worldwide—is their effect on appetite. Research shows that chia reduces appetite by 60%, and your desire for late-night snacking will also decrease by 50%. Chia seeds are hugely beneficial for weight loss, with the only condition being that you eat at least 28 grams per day.

The ideal ratio for preparing chia seeds is to use 1 tablespoon of chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water and let it stand for at least 15 minutes.

This mixture, in terms of minerals and nutrients, is a substitute for one egg.

And an added benefit: chia seeds also prevent premature skin aging and help with skin elasticity.