The sabja story: Sowing seeds of health
Sabja seeds help with bone health and muscle building. They can also benefit the skin as the seeds stimulate the synthesis of enzymes and hormones, and improve other bodily functions. VIDHI CHAWLA, Dietician
The changing weather calls for a subsequent change in one’s diet and daily regime. With a renewed focus on gut health in the recent past, sabja seeds rank high in the list of superfoods for good gut health. Recently, actor Karishma Tanna Bangera, 39, took to Instagram to share her secret to good health — sipping on water infused with sabja seeds throughout the day. She went on to highlight how the drink is high in fibre, good for the gut and helps with hydration.
SABJA VS CHIA SEEDS
Sabja seeds, also known as basil seeds, are considered a superfood. While they are similar to chia seeds, the differentiating factor is the time it takes to soak up water Dietician Vidhi Chawla explains the difference between the two: “Chia seed take time to absorb water, while sabja seeds expand immediately and are round. On the other hand, chia seeds are oval and larger.”
Calling it a powerhouse, nutritionist Malika Singh says, “Sabja seeds can pack a punch when added to your diet.” Low in calories, sabja seeds contain essential minerals such as potassium, manganese, calcium, copper and magnesium.
To avail the maximum benefit, one can drink water infused with sabja seeds first thing in the morning, suggest experts. You can also snack on these seeds, sprinkle over a smoothie bowl or fruit salad.
SABJA FOR HEALTHY HAIR AND SKIN
A natural source of protein, sabja seeds help with bone health and muscle building. “It can also benefit the skin as the seeds stimulate th synthesis of enzymes and hormones,” says Chawla.
It has anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties that can protect the skin from infections. Sabja is also useful in the treatment of conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
In addition to its overall health benefits, Singh shares that sabja seeds are good for hair health as well, as they can “help reduce hair fall, improve hair volume and growth”. “When ground into a powder, the seeds can be mixed in any oil and applied to the hair for lustrous locks,” she adds.
A WEIGHT LOSS BUDDY
Sabja seeds are high in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and omega-3 fatty acids. Chawla shares, “These acids assist in increasing the body’s fatburning metabolism. When soaked in water, sabja seeds expand and release a digestive enzyme, which aid in the reduction of cravings.” What’s more, the protein and fibre content of abja seeds will keep one full for a longer time. Singh says, “The high soluble fibre in sabja seeds will help regulate bowel movement, relieve constipation and reduce with acidity and bloating.”
WORD OF CAUTION
While drinking sabja-infused water has several health benefits, one must not overdo consumption. “Excessive use of sabja seeds has been known to cause diarrhoea, abdominal discomfort and even a reduced appetite,” says Singh.
Sabja water can induce vomiting, nausea, acne, acid reflux and headache in some people. “It can lower blood sugar in rare circumstances. Do not to consume more than two tablespoons of sabja seeds soaked in water,” says Chawla.