Often sidetracked for their more popular cousins- nuts, seeds need to be inculcated into everyone’s diet. Tiny powerhouses, mini superfoods, the almighty seeds are crops at their very nascent stage of life. Since these seeds contain all nutrients, necessary for growing a healthy and resilient plant, they supply your body with a multitude of benefits. Rich in nutrients, they offer you complex carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, minerals, dietary fibre and an ample amount of energy. Replace your multivitamins, because seeds provide many of the same nutrients, that you could never get from a pill.
Flaxseeds
Linum usitatissimum known as flaxseed or linseed is an ancient commodity that has been around for centuries and is a treasured item. Charles the Great, monarch of Western Europe was so convinced of its health benefits that he passed a decree ordering all his subjects to consume it. A powerhouse of omega-3 fatty acid, it is incremental for vegetarians and vegans or anyone avoiding fishes in their diet. Only recent discoveries by scientists shed light on the many nutritional benefits of flaxseed, a plant that has been around since 3000 B.C. Fitness enthusiasts are wholeheartedly incorporating it into their diets in the form of oils, loaves of bread, cereals, crackers, and protein bars. This B-12 enriched superfood is popular owing to its tone down attribute. Since it has high omega-3 content, it makes one feel full. Flaxseed has a global demand that was valued at around USD 423.3 million.
Chia seeds
Joining the bandwagon, amongst others is the chia seed, evidence suggesting it to be known since 900 B.C. its advantages are also numerous. They are an excellent source of anti-oxidants, apart from being rich in vitamins and minerals. The fibre content in these seeds helps lower cholesterol and slow down digestion which in case prevent blood sugar spikes. CAGR of 6.5% is the projection for chia seed between 2021 and 2026. Nutritionists recommend the usage of chia seeds for weight loss. Such popular recommendations act as a catalyst fuelling its use among the masses.
The rise of veganism has also led to people adopting these seeds as an alternative to red meat and seafood. While people are getting more health-conscious than ever, lifestyle influencers on social media also encourage them to consume these seeds. Flaxseed has many anti-ageing benefits as well, which is not known amongst the masses. Smoothies and salads are getting extremely popular due to their aesthetic feel, and also because of including fruits, vegetables, and seeds in your diet. The excess of any food is not good, hence everything must be consumed in moderation. Keep in mind, any specific health condition like diabetes before you decide to consume seeds. It is best to consult nutritionists to know about the appropriate portion size. These superfoods have a long-standing history and were also the staples of the oldest civilizations, yet we are discovering more and more of their benefits only because of recent developments. Its versatility makes seeds an excellent addition to your diet, although you should supervise the serving size.
