Chia Seeds are extracted from the herbaceous plant known as Salvia hispanica (originally from Southern Mexico and Northern Guatemala). These are rich sources of healthy fatty acids, dietary fiber, proteins, vitamins, and some minerals. Along with the healthy nutrients, these seeds also have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties in them.
During the nine long months of your pregnancy journey, it’s undeniable that you’ll need to adapt yourself to some significant changes in your lifestyle. That includes doing regular exercise and having a balanced diet. Amongst the many healthy intakes during your pregnancy, you might be wondering whether chia seeds during pregnancy are considered safe.
Going deeper, you’ll be able to explore more on the health benefits and safety concerns of chia seeds during pregnancy.
Health Benefits of Chia Seeds During Pregnancy
We know that you’re taking care of your child from the time that he or she is in your womb. Let’s take a closer look at how chia seeds is going to be helpful to you in different ways.
Help in Digestion
Pregnancy constipation is not unnatural. Having fiber-rich food can make your bowel movements smooth. Research has shown that fiber content in chia seeds is very high. (They have around 34 g and 40 g of dietary fiber in them). Therefore, consuming them along with other food can surely help deal with your pregnancy constipation.
Help In The Calcium Build-up
It might just cross your mind that drinking a glass of milk would be enough to fulfill your calcium needs. Why not try to mix chia seeds into your glass of milk? Mixing them with milk would add to your and your baby’s calcium benefits, Only 1000 mg will do. It might help you feel strong, reduce the risk of pre-eclampsia during your pregnancy, and help in your baby’s teeth and bone development, who’s still enjoying the comfort of your womb.
Chia Seeds is a Good Source of Omega – 3
Omega 3 are fatty acids not just help in fighting inflammation during your pregnancy and helps in saving your body from the risks of heart disease, diabetes, and depression, studies have also claimed that it helps in healthy brain development of the baby growing up inside you. You’ll surely get Omega 3 fatty acids from fish like salmon, oysters, sardines, shrimp, and some green veggies. However, if you have aversions towards certain types of fish or vegetables, daily consumption of chia seeds in small amounts (5 grams (g) of omega-3s4) might be a good alternative for you.
Make You Feel Energised
Healthy fats are required when you’re progressing with your pregnancy to help develop your baby and chia seeds have fat content in balance.
Make You Feel Full For Long
Nausea and soaring hormones can increase your hunger during pregnancy. Overeating might not just make you feel unhealthy, but it is also a fast way for you to gain a few extra kilos. Chia seeds may help you feel full for a long period of time.
The Side Effects of Consuming Chia Seeds During Pregnancy
As per the above-mentioned benefits, it is safe to have these seeds when you’re expecting a baby. However, in some cases, they might cause diarrhoea or stomach discomfort, even allergic reactions.
To reduce the risks, you might soak the chia seeds in water overnight and drink it the next day. You can alternately, blend them in your smoothies. However, remember to consume them in moderation. 2 tablespoons per day is enough. To gather some more knowledge on pregnancy, postpartum, baby care, and cord blood banking, visit our blogs.