Although chia seeds have been around for a long time (native to central and Southern Mexico and Guatemala), I only became familiar with them about three years ago, through a classmate in high school. These small seeds, that are pretty cool up-close, are extremely good for you! I love them because I can add them to salads, smoothies, pudding, and even juice, and it's gratifying to know that they are so good for me. Plus, most people will take advantage of such a simple way to make daily eating habits healthier. So here’s a few reasons why I love chia seeds, and you should too!

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1. They provide you with tons of nutrients, with barely any calories

Low in calories? Yes please. No need to calorie-count with these wonderful seeds, ladies.

2.They are packed with antioxidants

That’s always good. Stock up on those antioxidants to hopefully keep health issues at bay.

3. The few carbs that they do contain are fiber

They make you feel fuller, with barely any cost of calories–what could be better? I mean, they absorb water and get a little coating around them, which keeps you full. Pretty darn cool.

4. They should help you lose weight

This is thanks to the presence of so much fiber and protein. Hey, we could all use a little boost in the ongoing journey of weight loss, am I right?

5. They contain a lot of Omega-3 and fatty acids

You usually think of salmon as your go-to for Omega-3, but chia seeds actually pack more of a punch than salmon in that category.

6. They help strengthen your bones

There is a high-calcium content, which keeps those bones strong, healthy, and fully functional.

7. They improve exercise performance

Aztecs and Mayans used chia seeds way back when as their version of a sports drink. Sort of like an ancient Gatorade, if you will. They are good for maintaining that energy that you need while exercising, as well as replenishing your body with hydration afterwards.

8. There are many ways to add chia seeds to your diet!

My personal favorite is very simple–just mix some into my favorite juice (currently I am in love with Bai5 Antioxidant Infusion juice, so adding chia seeds to this already-healthy juice makes for a very super juice) or even just water. These are just a few that come to mind, but I’m sure there are hundreds of delicious recipes online that incorporate chia seeds. Or you can even just add them to any dish you already love! When eaten dry, they have no flavor–just a little crunch. When in liquid of any kind, each seed develops a jelly-like coating around it, so eating it that way may be an acquired taste for some people. However, I took to it rather quickly, and now cannot stop adding chias to my daily diet. Also, they are not too expensive, so if you get hooked on them it shouldn’t break the bank.

a. mixed into drinks

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b. on acai bowls

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c. in pudding

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d. chia squeezes/drinks

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e. salad topping

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If you haven’t already experienced the chia seed phenomenon, I highly recommend you go out and buy some. They are great to just have around. So take advantage of this lesser known superfood, then spread the word!