Although there are many debilitating diseases which can complicate an individual's life and preclude them from being productive and positive, the symptoms of multiple sclerosis can vary per individual. As a condition that attacks the individual's central nervous system (CNS), MS patients may experience symptoms like numbness in the limbs, loss of vision, and paralysis. The implementation of healthy eating practices can help alleviate the symptoms and contribute to a more proactive lifestyle.
There are plenty of great foods that an individual with MS can eat in order to reduce the symptoms of the condition, and one of them is chia seeds. According to some health experts, the Omega-3 fatty acids found in chia seeds may be helpful for the inflammation caused by MS. To fully understand all of the great health benefits that chia seeds provide, consider the following:
1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
As stated earlier, chia seeds come packed with polyunsaturated fats, including Omega-3 fatty acids. The fatty acid is beneficial for many other reasons, including the fact that it enhances cognitive performance and reduces high cholesterol.
2. Fiber
Like Omega-3, fiber is a substance associated with the reduction of inflammation, a factor that may make it of great use to individuals who have MS and struggle with this symptom. Luckily, just 2 tablespoons of chia seeds come packed with 10 grams of fiber, which is a little more than 1/3 of the RDA.
3. Blood Sugar Regulation
As many health experts know, chia seeds can help regulate an individual's insulin levels. This happens by the chia seeds reducing insulin resistance while decreasing unusually high levels of insulin within the blood.
4. Antioxidants
The fact that chia seeds contain an ample amount of antioxidants may be one of the greatest benefits of the food. The antioxidants found in them protect the individual's body from a slew of problematic conditions, including cancer and aging. Moreover, the antioxidants in chia seeds help prevent the body from damage that can be caused by free radicals.
While eating chia seeds can be an advantageous enterprise for everyone, some of the health benefits resulting from components such as Omega-3 fatty acids and fiber can be particularly helpful for individuals with MS. Those who have the condition may want to consider creative ways to integrate the small seeds into their diet.