Health Benefits of Chia Seeds – Are They Safe During Pregnancy?

From grocery stores and food trucks to your Insta feed, chia seeds are everywhere. These humble seeds measure just around 1mm but these tiny superfoods are loaded with a lot of vital nutrients for pregnancy. Of course, you won’t consume anything that can hurt you or your child. Chia seeds are considered safe for pregnancy, most of the time.

Health Benefits of Chia Seeds

You can add them to anything you eat like your yogurt, oatmeal, and even ice cream. Here are the reasons you can rely on these black and white seeds –

1. Improve Digestion

If you are in week 30 pregnancy, you already know how harder it goes to your digestion. Dealing with constipation and hemorrhoids might be the part of your life. Luckily, you can keep your digestive system going well with fiber-rich foods. You can get up to 32% of daily value (8g of fiber) with 2 tbsp of chia seeds.

2. Boost red blood cells

Do you have to wear socks and gloves because your feet and hands get too cold? Do you get tired unusually? Do you get dizzy? It must be anemia (iron deficiency).  During pregnancy, deficiency of iron is a very common issue because the body sometimes doesn’t produce sufficient amounts of red blood cells. Chia seeds are the rich source of iron.

3. Gives you energy boost

Whether you are staying at home or working outside, you might feel all time low every day. Chia seeds are healthy fats to keep you up and going. Keep in mind that they are superfood, not a magic wand. They can give you the boost you want.

Are Chia Seeds Risky?

Sometimes, having good things too much can be risky. Here’s what else you should know –

• Eating too much can cause stomach pain or diarrhea – Chia seeds are all natural and healthy, but you shouldn’t eat them too much. It is good if you have 1-2 tbsp a day and be on the safe side.
• Drug interactions – Many pregnant women can take chia seeds. But you should ask your doctor before adding them to your diet. It can affect your body with medication.