The most touted benefit of chia seeds is their high omega-3 content. However this is in the form of short-chain ALA omega-3. This needs to be converted to long-chain EPA/DHA omega-3. Unfortunately, our bodies aren’t very efficient in converting ALA to EPA/DHA so much of the benefits are lost. If this is the main reason you’re looking at chia seeds, you may well be better off with some wild fish, grass fed meat & fish oils for your omega 3s. On the plus side, chia seeds are packed with soluble fibre & are high in antioxidants, calcium, iron, manganese & phosphorous. A unique property of chia seeds is the ability to hold up to 12 times its weight in water. Soaked for 30 mins, the seeds will form a gel like substance. Researches believe this gel reaction also occurs in the stomach, forming a barrier which means carbohydrates are broken down slowly. This makes the seeds popular among endurance athletes & also diabetics, who want a slow release energy source.