In the quest for a healthier lifestyle, superfoods like chia seeds and sabja seeds have gained immense popularity. Both these seeds pack a nutritional punch. However, they are not the same and understanding their differences can help you make better dietary choices.
Know them: Chia Seeds vs Sabja Seeds
Chia seeds come from the plant Salvia hispanica, which is native to Mexico and Guatemala. They are small, oval-shaped seeds, typically black, white, or grey. Chia seeds have a mild, nutty flavor.
- Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: best plant-based sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health.
- Digestive Health: The soluble fiber in chia seeds helps in digestion, promotes satiety, and aids in weight loss. The gel-like texture formed by chia seeds in liquid promotes healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.
- Protein Powerhouse: With a good amount of protein, chia seeds are excellent for vegetarians and vegans.
- Bone Health: The calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus in chia seeds support bone health.
- Antioxidant Boost: Rich in antioxidants that help fight free radicals and reduce inflammation.
Sabja Seeds also known as basil seeds or tukmaria, come from the sweet basil plant (Ocimum basilicum), which is native to India and the Mediterranean. These seeds are slightly smaller than chia seeds and are usually black. Sabja seeds have a mild, slightly peppery flavor. High in fiber, iron, calcium, magnesium, and antioxidants. They also contain fewer calories compared to chia seeds.
- Cooling Effect: Sabja seeds have a natural cooling effect on the body, making them perfect for the hot Indian weather.
- Digestion Aid: The high fiber content aids in digestion and helps in relieving constipation and bloating.
- Weight Loss: Sabja seeds swell up when soaked in water, helping you feel fuller for longer and reducing appetite.
- Blood Sugar Regulation: They help regulate blood sugar levels, making them beneficial for diabetics.
- Antioxidant Boost: The antioxidants in sabja seeds promote healthy skin and hair.
When to Use:
Add chia seeds to your breakfast smoothies, yogurts, or oatmeal for a nutrient-packed start to your day. Use chia seeds in your baked goods like bread, muffins, and cookies for an added nutritional boost. Incorporate chia seeds into your daily diet if you're looking to improve your heart health and reduce inflammation.
Use sabja seeds in your summer beverages like lemonades, sherbets, and falooda to beat the heat. Add soaked sabja seeds to your meals if you're experiencing digestive issues like constipation.
Easy and Fun RECIPES TO MAKE
WITH Chia Seeds!
If you are bored with Chia Seed pudding by now, try these interesting takes on Chia Seed :
Uzma Syed
Dr.Madhumita Mishra
Kalpana Rai
Shital Siddhesh Raut
bhuvana Cooking kitchen
renu bhasin
Vaishali Suhas
spicequeen
WITH Sabja Seeds/Basil Seeds!
Manisha Sampat
Sanchita Mittal
Shital Muranjan
Divya Konduri
Naheed Alam
Bina Samir Telivala
While chia seeds are not traditionally used in Indian cuisine, their versatility has led to their incorporation into various modern Indian recipes. They are popularly used in Chia seed pudding, chia seed smoothie, chia seed water and various chia seed milk recipes to enhance nutritional value.
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Sabja seeds have a long-standing presence in Indian food. They are widely used in traditional drinks like juice, falooda, lassi and rose milk. Their cooling properties make them a staple in summer recipes, helping to beat the heat.
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So, go ahead and experiment with chia seeds and sabja seeds in your favorite dishes and beverages and reap the benefits of these superfoods.