Sabja seeds are often consumed for their remarkable nutritional profile and versatility. They can help you deal with various health concerns and are used in both ancient Indian remedies and modern wellness practices. Read on to learn more about the various benefits you can avail for your skin, hair, digestive system, bones, and more from these seeds in this article with inputs shared by our expert, Aman Puri, founder of Steadfast Nutrition.
Also known as basil seeds, the Sabja seeds are tiny, black, and round in appearance. Even the plant that it is derived from, the sweet basil plant, is known for its cooling and detoxifying properties and digestive benefits. After they are soaked in water, these seeds swell up into a translucent gelatinous structure.
Sabja seeds are considered to be rich in fibre, protein, Vitamins A, K and C, minerals, calcium, magnesium, iron, and antioxidants. “100 grams of these Indian basil seeds contain approximately 350 calories, 14.8 grams of protein, 4 grams of total fats, 63 grams of carbohydrates, 22.6 grams of fibre, 2.2 milligrams of iron, 31 milligrams of magnesium, and 1.5 milligrams of zinc,” shared Puri.
Aman said, “Sabja seeds should not be consumed raw. Instead, they should only be eaten after they have been soaked in water. These seeds go well with many drinks and beverages and can also be used as a garnish for ice cream, smoothies, porridge, and other desserts.”
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Being rich in proteins, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, Sabja seeds help strengthen bones and prevent demineralisation.
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“The high fibre content in Sabja seeds promotes a feeling of fullness, reducing food cravings, which benefits individuals who want to lose weight,” shared Puri. (6 Seeds For Weight Loss)
Sabja seeds contain polyphenolic flavonoids orientin and vicenin and are rich in beta carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin, which act as antioxidants scavenging free radicals and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases and neurological disorders. The presence of antioxidants also plays a role in detoxifying the body.
The high water content in Sabja seeds helps maintain skin hydration while the presence of vitamin E and antioxidants helps maintain skin elasticity, reducing premature ageing.
The protein, iron, magnesium, calcium, vitamin K, and manganese present in Sabja seeds help reduce hair fall, eliminate dandruff, improve hair volume, and encourage new healthy hair growth.
“Sabja seeds can be a choking hazard, especially for children or the elderly as they swell up after coming in contact with liquids or water. Also, if consumed in excessive amounts, they can cause bloating or diarrhoea due to their high fibre content or may interfere with medications like blood thinners,” shared Aman.
While the Sabja seeds are tiny and black, the Chia seeds are greyish-white or brown in colour and are slightly bigger. The chia seeds usually take more time to absorb water, approximately half an hour, however, the Sabja seeds swell up instantly or within 5-10 minutes after soaking in water.
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