NOURISH Nutrition • Health • Fitness

Chia is an edible seed that grows in the southern part of Mexico. Chia seeds are nutrient-rich containing all 8 essential amio acids; soluble and insoluble fibre; vitamins A, B, E, and D; calcium, iron and omega-3 fatty acids.

Chia seeds are a rich source of fibre with a 36% fibre content, which may help lower cholesterol levels, improve intestinal health and regularity and can reduce the risk of colon cancer.

Chia seeds form a gel when mixed with water. This gel-forming reaction occurs in the stomach and in the small and large intestine which means that Chia seeds can give you a fuller feeling, leaving you feeling satisfied for longer.That means you're more likely to consume less kilojoules in the day, which may assist with weight management.

Chia has a very mild flavor, which instead takes on the flavour of the foods you mix it with. Try and sprinkle ground or whole chia seeds on cereal, in yoghurt or salads. Or grind chia seeds and mix them with flour when making muffins or other baked goods. Check out http://www.thechiaco.com.au/recipes for some more great ways to include chia seeds in your day!

Our Accredited Practising Dietitians are trained to assist in the management of Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa and Binge Eating Disorder. Call us now to make an appointment

Non-hungry eating is one of the most important factors that need to be addresssed when trying to achieve and maintain a healthy weight range. Non-hungry eating includes over-eating, emotional eating, grazing, picking and bingeing. Do you think you struggle with non-hungry eating? One of our dietitians can work with you to overcome non-hungry eating.