Flax seeds tend to be the Omega-3 fatty acid source of choice for vegans and vegetarians that are looking to add Omega-3s to their diets. However, several studies have shown that Chia seeds are a better, healthier choice. Not only are Chia seeds vegan-friendly and gluten-free, they do not contain any anti-nutritional compounds like flax seeds. Flax seed contains several toxic cyanogenic compounds, as well as a vitamin B6 antagonist and trypsin inhibitors. Because of this, human consumption of flaxseed oil had been banned in France since 1973. It is also restricted in Germany, Switzerland, and Belgium.

Chia seed is much safer for human consumption, and it has a much longer self-life than flax seed. The Omega-3 fatty acids in chia are protected by the natural antioxidants within the seed itself. Flax seeds, on the other hand, contain their oils within a hard outer shell. In order to benefit from the Omega-3 fatty acids found in flaxseed, one must grind, cook, or somehow open the seeds. Otherwise, the seed will just pass through your body. Once the oils have been expelled from the flaxseed, say through milling (grinding) they must be consumed within a certain period of time or else they’ll go rancid. This isn’t the case with chia seeds. You can eat the chia seed whole and reap all of the health benefits without ever having to worry about rancidity!

Here at AZChia, we offer several Chia products at amazing low prices. See for yourself what Chia can do for you!