Food & NutritionYour Health

14 Health Benefits of Chia Seeds

High Omega-3 Fatty Acids Content

Chia seeds are very high in omega-3 fatty acids. Typically, animal sources of omega-3 acids are better than plant sources because animal sources usually contain the active forms of omega-3 acids which can be used easily by the body. A lot of the omega-3 fatty acids present in chia seeds are alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), and they cannot be used in that form by the body. Human beings are not able to naturally convert alpha-linolenic acid into active ways in which the body can use them. Notwithstanding, you can still combine chia seeds with animal sources of omega-3s, or you can use a DHA supplement to help convert the ALA into a usable form. [4]