5 healthy seeds and ways to consume them (Chia and Pomegranate) Part One
The seed is life. A seed is a plant in its embryonic stage and a source of nutrition. It contains a lot of vitamins, minerals, proteins, essential oils and enzymes.
Seeds are the best high-quality and nutritious snack
Healthy eating today has various principles and rules. That is why there is a lot of controversy regarding synthetic vitamins and dietary supplements. Doctors do not recommend including dietary supplements in the diet without special indications (because there are natural sources of vitamins that are absolutely safe for human health). The seeds contain a lot of useful substances.
Many seeds are edible and should be eaten raw
Some seeds exposed to heat often produce toxic substances and denature vitamins, minerals and essential oils. When the seeds are roasted then their classification varies from live to dead food. There is no seed on earth that can withstand roasting or heating without spoiling its nutritional components.
The seeds should be consumed raw, i.e. in their natural form
Seeds can of course be added to other dishes, but fried seeds or seeds dipped in chocolate and the like should be avoided.

1. Chia seeds – increase physical endurance and general good health of people. They contain large amounts of omega-3 fatty acids and even 8 times more than salmon and represent 60% of the total fat in the seeds. Consumption of chia seeds can increase the level of long-chain omega-3 EPA in the blood by up to 30% (according to a new study from Appalachian State University and the University of North Carolina). Omega-3 fatty acids exist in the human body but in small amounts to meet the needs for them in all life stages. They are of great importance for blood circulation, prevent the formation of blood clots and lower the level of triglycerides in the blood. For a long time, it was thought that fish and fish oil were the only source of omega-3 fatty acids. It has been shown that omega-3 also contains some plant sources (for example, flax seeds), but chia seeds are still a richer source. Chia seeds are a source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of short-chain omega-3 fatty acid, while fish is a source of “long-chain” fatty acids (EPA and DHA). Consumption of EPA and DHA has been linked in increasing scientific research to improved heart health, brain function, and other possible benefits (for example, improvement in depression or rheumatoid arthritis). Research suggests that ALA may lead to heart-related redistribution and protection. Chia seeds contain 2.5 times more protein than beans, are three times stronger oxidant than blueberries and have a higher iron content than spinach. Chia has 6 times more calcium than milk, 7 times more vitamin C than oranges, 10 times more fiber than rice and 15 times more magnesium than broccoli. Consuming chia can help reduce joint pain, help with weight loss, increase energy and protect the body from serious diseases (diabetes and heart disease). Chia seeds are gluten-free, which is important for people with gluten intolerance or gluten aversion. Application of chia seeds – chia seeds are best used in fresh form (for example, mixed with yogurt, cereals, kefir, smoothies, added to salads and sauces). It can be used as a gelling agent. Soak in water or milk (juice or other liquid) for 10 minutes before use. One spoon can replace one egg in baking. The seeds are useful in the preparation of gluten-free bread. The consumption of chia also requires the consumption of at least 2 liters of water per day in order for the effects and health benefits to be fully utilized.
2. Rosehip seeds (Latin Punica granatum) – is one of the oldest species known to mankind. Pomegranate is a rich source of antioxidants that protect the body from free radicals (which cause premature aging). Pomegranate juice increases the level of oxygen in the body (in the blood). antioxidants fight against free radicals and prevent the formation of blood clots. This ultimately improves blood flow in the body and oxygenation of blood levels in the body. The antioxidant properties of rose hips prevent the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. This actually means that rose hips prevent excess fat from clogging blood vessels, which in turn will be loaded with antioxidants and fat-free. Rosehips contain a large amount of polyphenylene (a form of antioxidants that are a prerequisite for reducing the risk of cancer and heart attack). Rosehip juice contains healthy tannins-anthocyanins and ellagic acid (which contain more antioxidants than even green tea or red tea). Pomegranate with edible inner seeds is rich in vitamin C and potassium. One rosehip contains only 80 calories and is a good source of fiber. Many studies confirm pomegranate as one of the healthiest fruits in the world – because it has a positive effect on the cardiovascular system, nervous and skeletal system. The health benefits of this fruit go deep into the bones. It reduces cartilage damage in people with arthritis, has the ability to reduce inflammation and fights enzymes that damage cartilage.