Skip to content

Available 24/7 at

+91 7006465990

Seeds

Health Benefits Of Chia Seeds | How to Use| What To Eat And More!

by Kashmironlinestore.com Admin 02 Aug 2022

Chia seeds are tiny, black seeds that are native to Central America and have been used as a staple food by the Aztec and Mayan people for centuries. In fact, the word "chia" is derived from the word "chian" in the ancient language of Nahuatl. In today's fast-paced world, where we are constantly bombarded with advertisements and marketing gimmicks, you may be wondering what makes chia seeds stand out from all the rest.

Chia seeds have numerous health benefits and can be used in both sweet and savory dishes as well as drinks such as smoothies and juices. Keep reading for a breakdown of everything you need to know about chia seeds!

What Are Chia Seeds?

 Chia seeds are members of the salvia species. They are native to Central America, where the Aztecs and Mayans used them as a staple food. Chia seeds are small and black in color, with a texture similar to poppy seeds. They can be consumed either whole or ground into a fine powder.

what are chai seeds

Chia seeds are an excellent source of plant protein, fiber, and minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, and zinc. Chia seeds also contain antioxidants, vitamins like vitamin E, thiamin, and niacin, and essential fatty acids such as omega-3. There are many ways to consume chia seeds as they have no bitterness or flavor and are very versatile. You can add chia seeds to your oatmeal, smoothie bowl, or salad, or you can also use them in baking and desserts.

Why Should You Use Chia Seeds?

how to use chia seeds

Chia seeds are an excellent source of dietary fiber and protein. They have a high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids and are rich in minerals like calcium and iron. They are easy to add to any meal and can be used in various dishes and desserts. Chia seeds can help lower blood sugar levels, making them a good choice for people with diabetes. They are also rich in antioxidants, can help prevent heart disease, and can help with weight management. Chia seeds are also a good source of protein, fiber, and minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, and zinc.

The Health Benefits Of Chia Seeds:

Chia seeds are known for their high levels of nutrients and protein. If you haven't heard about these tiny black seeds, then this is the right time to get acquainted with them. These little gems are not just a new fad but an essential superfood with impressive health benefits.

Chia seeds are tiny black seeds that many cultures have used for centuries as a food supply. They have only recently taken the Western world by storm due to their unique nutritional profile coupled with their versatility as an ingredient in food and drinks. With so many ways to eat chia seeds, it's impossible to get bored with them.

Here are some health benefits of eating chia seeds that will make you love them forever!

  • They Are Packed With Protein And Fiber:

Chia seeds are an excellent source of both protein and fiber, which is rare for one food item. A single ounce of chia seeds contains four grams of protein and four grams of fiber, which is almost 20% of the recommended daily intake.

Protein and fiber are nutrients that are essential for your health. Protein is needed to build muscle, and fiber helps prevent constipation and maintain a healthy weight. Protein promotes satiety and is known to aid in weight loss by increasing the metabolism, preventing hunger pangs, and enhancing fat burning.

Fiber helps regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation, which many people suffer from owing to their high-protein diet.

  • They Help In Weight Loss And Weight Management:

Chia seeds have been used by many cultures to promote weight loss. They have a high fiber content, which is known to aid in weight loss. They can also be an excellent substitute for other high-calorie foods such as chips. Chia seeds are packed with protein, and when eaten, they slowly release glucose into the bloodstream.

This prevents spikes in blood sugar levels and promotes fat burning. Chia seeds are known to reduce appetite and promote weight loss. Many people who want to lose weight can benefit from consuming chia seeds in their diet.

You can add chia seeds to your diet in several ways, such as through beverages or adding them to other foods. You can make chia seed muffins, chia seed crackers, or chia seed pudding.

chia seeds benefits
  • They Can Help Boost Your Immunity:

Chia seeds are a great source of antioxidants, which help boost your immunity. These tiny black seeds have the highest amount of antioxidants compared to other food items. Antioxidants are essential for your body as they prevent free radical damage to the body and help in protecting vulnerable tissues such as your heart, lungs, and brain.

Chia seeds contain large amounts of an antioxidant called "phytosterols" – healthful compounds found in plants that help defend against heart disease and other forms of chronic illness.

These antioxidants are also known to prevent oxidative stress in the body and have been shown to have an anti-aging effect on the body.

  • They Are Beneficial For Your Eyes And Vision:

Chia seeds are rich in particular nutrients like vitamin C, lutein, and zeaxanthin, which are essential for your eyes and vision. They also contain high omega-3 fatty acids, necessary for preventing eye diseases such as macular degeneration, carpal tunnel syndrome, and glaucoma.

Vitamin C is also an antioxidant that helps keep your Skin healthy and is known to prevent wrinkles and signs of aging. Eating two tablespoons of chia seeds daily can provide you with the recommended amount of vitamin C and other vital nutrients for your eyes.

Chia seeds can be consumed in many ways, such as by adding them to your smoothie, baking them in your muffins, or even sprinkling them on your salads.

  • Chia Seeds Can Be Used To Make A Delicious Meal Or As A Topper:

Besides being a great source of protein and fiber, Chia seeds are also rich in other minerals such as calcium, iron, zinc, and magnesium. They also contain high amounts of antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, which help fight against cancer and prevent heart diseases.

These tiny black seeds can be used in many ways, such as a topping on salads and desserts, added to smoothies, and even used to make cookies or other baked goods. Chia seeds can be added to almost any meal and are best eaten when ground.

They are great as a topper on oatmeal, yogurt, and other foods. They can also be added to baked goods such as cookies, muffins, and even some types of bread.

  • Helps In Better Sleep:

Chia seeds are an excellent option for those looking to improve their sleep quality. Consuming chia seeds before bed can help enhance the quality of sleep. Chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to be beneficial for sleep. Additionally, chia seeds are a good source of magnesium, a mineral that has been shown to help improve sleep quality.

Healthy Heart:

benefits of chia seeds for heart

Chia seeds are an excellent source of antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to lower cholesterol and prevent blood clots. This makes them a perfect option for those looking to improve their heart health. Additionally, chia seeds are a good source of fiber, protein, and minerals such as calcium and phosphorus. All of these nutrients are essential for maintaining a healthy heart.

Benefits Of Chia Seeds For Skin:

Chia seeds are one of the most nutritious superfoods that you can add to your diet. Thanks to their high fiber, protein, and omega-3 content, chia seeds help manage weight, control blood sugar, reduce the risk of heart disease, and so much more. As it turns out, these unassuming little seeds have a lot more to offer than we initially thought.

In addition to being an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, chia seeds also provide numerous benefits for Skin. If you're not yet familiar with this superfood, read on as we spill the top 5 advantages of chia seeds for Skin that will blow you away!

  • Rich In Antioxidants:

Chia seeds are a great source of antioxidants, which work to reduce the signs of aging by fighting off free radicals that damage Skin. As we age, our body's ability to produce antioxidants slows down, which is one of the reasons that aging Skin becomes less supple. One way to maintain healthy, youthful-looking Skin is by consuming plenty of antioxidant-rich foods like chia seeds.

When added to your diet, chia seeds help maximize the results of your skincare routine by boosting your Skin's natural ability to defend itself against different types of damage such as sun damage, inflammation, oxidative stress, and more.

  • Help Manage Acne:

Chia seeds have anti-inflammatory properties that can assist with acne breakouts. When added to your diet, these seeds help reduce the inflammation in your body, which could lead to less frequent flights and smaller pimples. When ingested, chia seeds have the ability to slow down digestion and therefore prevent blood sugar spikes. When your blood sugar is regulated, your body is less likely to produce excess sebum, which is a natural substance that causes pimples.

  • Provide anti-aging benefits:

The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging benefits of chia seeds make them a superfood that can be added to your diet to help prevent wrinkles. When consumed regularly, chia seeds are known to reduce the signs of aging thanks to their high amounts of antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids. The latter is necessary for forming collagen, a protein that plumps, hydrates, and firms the Skin. By eating chia seeds, you can help maintain youthful-looking Skin by reducing the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots.

Chia seeds benefits for skin
  • It could help reduce wrinkles and dark spots:

Although antioxidants are necessary for preventing wrinkles and dark spots, antioxidants are unable to penetrate Skin's surface. Instead of letting them go to waste, chia seeds can be used to extract antioxidants from other foods like broccoli and blueberries. With their high amount of antioxidants, chia seeds can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and dark spots by boosting your Skin's natural ability to defend itself against harmful external factors like UV rays, toxins, pollution, and more.

  • Boost Skin Hydration:

Chia seeds are high in omega-3 fatty acids and amino acids that are essential for skin health and hydration. This can help your Skin stay hydrated and maintain a youthful appearance.

  • Reduce Skin Pigmentation:

Chia seeds are rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce skin pigmentation and dark spots caused by sun damage. This makes chia seeds a great addition to your skincare regimen if you want to reduce the appearance of dark spots and uneven skin tones.

  • Reduce Breakouts:

Chia seeds are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to reduce inflammation and may help reduce outbreaks and breakouts on the Skin.

Chia Seeds Benefits And Side Effects:

There are no known side effects of chia seeds when consumed in moderation. People with allergies to specific food groups such as soy and legumes should consult a doctor before consuming chia seeds. Chia seeds can be consumed either whole or ground into a fine powder.

They take longer to digest and have a higher nutritional value when swallowed whole. Ground chia seeds are easier to incorporate into recipes but have a lower nutritional value as they are broken down during the grinding process. Chia seeds can be consumed on their own as a snack or added to recipes as a replacement for flours, grains, and hydrocolloids such as gelatin and xanthan gum.

Chia Seeds Benefits For Hair:

Healthy Hair - Just like they help keep your Skin hydrated and youthful, chia seeds are also great for hair health. They are high in essential fatty acids and Vitamin E, which benefit hair health.

Stronger Hair - Healthy hair is not only shiny and hydrated but also solid and resistant to breakage. Chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for building strong hair and preventing breakage.

chia seeds benefits for hair

Healthier Hair Colour - Chia seeds are rich in antioxidants, which help prevent oxidative stress, which can cause your hair colour to fade and result in yellow, brassy tones in your hair colour. They are also rich in Vitamin C, which helps prevent oxidative stress and keeps your hair colour from fading.

Chia Seeds Benefits For Weight Loss:

chia seeds benefits for weight loss

Controlled Blood Sugar Levels - Chia seeds are high in fiber, which helps you feel more full for more extended periods of time and makes you eat less. This helps regulate blood sugar levels and produces chia seeds, a great addition to a weight loss diet.

Healthier Heart - Chia seeds are rich in antioxidants, which can lower cholesterol and prevent blood clotting, reducing your risk of developing heart disease. Better Sleep - Chia seeds are rich in tryptophan, an amino acid your body converts into serotonin, and is known to improve sleep quality.

Chia Seeds Benefits For Diabetes:

The chia seeds' health benefits are many. The seeds are very rich in fiber and minerals, which are highly beneficial to our health. Moreover, they are also low in calories and contain very few carbs. This makes them the perfect addition to any type of diet, including a diabetic diet.

how to consume chia seeds for diabetes

The chia seeds can help you manage your blood sugar levels by stabilizing your blood glucose levels after a meal. They can also help you feel full for longer, which benefits weight loss. The chia seeds may also help you reduce your risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Benefits Of Chia Seeds For Female Fertility:

The benefits of chia seeds for female fertility include reducing miscarriage risk, regulating hormones, and improving regularity.

The primary nutrient in chia seeds that benefits female fertility is fiber. A study published in the journal Nutrition and Healthy Aging' found that high dietary fiber intake reduces the risk of miscarriage. Additionally, chia seeds are a good source of magnesium, which also benefits fertility.

chia seeds during implantation

Another benefit of chia seeds is that they regulate hormone levels in the body. Imbalanced hormone levels can lead to problems with conception and miscarriage. Chia seeds can help correct these hormone imbalances by stabilizing blood sugar and insulin levels. They also help to balance hormones by improving digestion and regularity.

Chia seeds are beneficial to female fertility because they are packed with nutrients that are essential for good health. They can improve menstrual regularity, help balance hormone levels, and reduce the risk of miscarriage.

Chia Seeds Benefits In Pregnancy:

Chia seeds are a nutritional powerhouse, providing expectant mothers with an array of essential nutrients. Just a few of the many nutrients found in chia seeds include omega-3 fatty acids, protein, fiber, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. These nutrients are essential for the mother and the developing baby.

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for brain development and may help to prevent specific congenital disabilities. Protein is vital for the growth and development of the baby, while fiber helps to keep the mother's digestive system functioning correctly. Calcium and magnesium are essential for the development of the skeleton and teeth, while phosphorus is necessary for the proper development of the brain and nervous system.

chia seeds to get pregnant

In addition to being a great source of nutrients, chia seeds are also shallow in calories and have a high fiber content, both of which are important for pregnant women who are trying to control their weight. Chia seeds can be added to various foods, such as yogurt, cereal, oatmeal, or smoothies, or they can be eaten on their own as a snack.

Chia Seeds Benefits For Skin Whitening:

Chia seeds are an excellent source of nutrition for the Skin. They are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can help to improve the health and appearance of the Skin. Chia seeds are also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining the Skin's moisture barrier and preventing dryness.

how to use chia seeds for skin whitening

There are several ways to use chia seeds for skin whitening. A straightforward way is to add them to your diet. You can sprinkle chia seeds on salads, cereals, or yogurt or add them to smoothies or juices. Another way to incorporate chia seeds into your skincare routine is to make a DIY face mask or scrub. Simply combine a few tablespoons of chia seeds with water or another liquid, such as milk or honey, to form a paste. Apply the paste to your face and let it sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing it off.

Chia seeds are a natural, safe, and effective way to improve the health and appearance of your Skin. Give them a try and see for yourself!

Benefits Of Chia Seeds Water:

Chia seeds water is a healthy and refreshing drink that is easy to make and packed with nutrients. Just add a couple of tablespoons of chia seeds to a glass of water and let them sit for a few minutes to absorb. The end result is a nutrient-rich drink that is hydrating and satisfying.

chia seeds water benefits for skin

Some of the benefits of chia seeds water include:

  1. Hydration: Chia seeds are a great source of hydration. They absorb moisture and help to keep you hydrated throughout the day.
  2. Nutrients: Chia seeds are packed with nutrients including fiber, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants.
  3. Weight Loss: Chia seeds can help with weight loss by keeping you feeling full and satisfied. The fiber and protein content helps to keep you feeling full, while the omega-3 fatty acids help to boost metabolism.
  4. Digestion: Chia seeds help to promote regularity and improve digestion. The fiber content helps to keep things moving along, while the omega-3 fatty acids help to reduce inflammation.
  5. Heart Health: Chia seeds are good for heart health. The omega-3 fatty acids help to reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels, while the fiber helps to lower blood pressure.

Chia Seeds Benefits For PCOS:

Chia seeds are an excellent source of fiber, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants. All of these nutrients are important for women with PCOS.

Fiber helps to regulate blood sugar levels, which is vital for women with PCOS who are at risk for insulin resistance. Fiber also helps to promote healthy digestion.

chia seeds for uterus

Protein is vital for helping to regulate hormones and for repairing and building muscle tissue.

Omega-3 fatty acids help to reduce inflammation throughout the body. This is important for women with PCOS because they often have high levels of inflammation.

Antioxidants help to protect the body against damage from free radicals. This is important for all women, but especially for those with PCOS who are at a higher risk of developing certain cancer types.

Benefits Of Chia Seeds Empty Stomach:

When it comes to nutritional powerhouse foods, chia seeds are hard to beat. Just a single ounce of these tiny seeds contains 11 grams of fiber, 4 grams of protein, 5 grams of omega-3 fatty acids, and a host of other vitamins and minerals. They're incredibly versatile and can be added to all sorts of recipes.

So, what are the benefits of eating chia seeds on an empty stomach?

First of all, doing so can help to regulate your digestive system. Chia seeds are high in fiber, which helps to keep things moving along smoothly. They also contain a type of soluble fiber known as mucilage, which can help to soothe an upset stomach and reduce inflammation.

Another benefit of chia seeds is that they can help to regulate your blood sugar levels. This is because they have a low glycemic index, and their slow-digesting fibers help to stabilize blood sugar levels. This is especially beneficial for those who suffer from diabetes or prediabetes.

benefits of chia seeds water empty stomach

Additionally, chia seeds are a great source of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats are essential for maintaining a healthy heart and preventing chronic diseases such as heart disease and stroke.

Finally, chia seeds are a good source of antioxidants. These nutrients help to protect your cells from damage and can reduce your risk of developing certain chronic diseases.

So, there you have it! These are just a few of the many benefits of eating chia seeds on an empty stomach. So, if you're looking for a healthy way to start your day, add a few spoonfuls of chia seeds to your breakfast routine.

Benefits Of Chia Seeds For Babies :

Chia seeds are a nutritional powerhouse, and their benefits are well-documented. They're an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, protein, antioxidants, and minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. All of these nutrients are important for growing babies and young children.

Omega-3 fatty acids are critical for brain and eye development. Fiber helps with digestive health, and protein is essential for growth and repair. Antioxidants help protect cells from damage, and minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium are important for bone and teeth development.

best seeds for babies

There are many ways to incorporate chia seeds into your baby's diet. You can add them to cereal, oatmeal, or yogurt. You can also make a simple pudding by mixing chia seeds with milk and a little sweetener. Or, you can use them in place of breadcrumbs in homemade baby food recipes.

Chia seeds are a great choice if you're looking for healthy, nutrient-packed food to add to your baby's diet.

Chia Seeds Benefits For Male:

Chia seeds have become a popular health food in recent years, and for a good reason. These tiny seeds are packed with nutrients that can benefit many different aspects of your health. For men specifically, chia seeds can improve sexual health, heart health, and more.

chia seeds benefits for menstruation

Sexual Health: Chia seeds are a good source of zinc, a mineral that is essential for sexual health. Zinc helps to produce testosterone and other hormones needed for sexual function. Furthermore, zinc can help to improve blood flow and reduce inflammation. All of these effects can lead to better sexual performance.

Heart Health: Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men in the United States. Chia seeds can help to protect against heart disease by reducing cholesterol and inflammation. The omega-3 fatty acids in chia seeds also benefit heart health.

There are many other potential benefits of chia seeds for men, including improved digestion, stronger bones, and decreased risk of cancer. If you're looking for healthy food to improve your overall health, add some chia seeds to your diet today!

Chia Seeds Benefits For Women:

Chia seeds are an excellent source of nutrients for women of all ages. They are a good source of fiber, protein, calcium, and antioxidants. Chia seeds have been shown to help with weight loss, lower blood pressure, and improve cholesterol levels.

chia seeds benefits for female fertility

They can also help to reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and cancer. Additionally, chia seeds are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health. For women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, chia seeds can help to boost energy levels and improve the quality of breast milk.

And for women who are menopausal, chia seeds can help to alleviate hot flashes and other symptoms. So whether you're looking to improve your health or just want to add nutrient-rich food to your diet, consider adding chia seeds to your meals and snacks. Your body will thank you!

Chia Seeds Lemon Water Benefits:

Chia seeds are an excellent source of fiber, protein, and antioxidants, making them a popular addition to health-conscious diets. When soaked in water, chia seeds form a gel-like substance that is believed to have a variety of health benefits. One of these benefits is improved hydration.

chia seeds with lemon and honey benefits

The gel-like coating around the chia seeds helps keep water in the digestive tract, preventing dehydration and improving bowel movements. Additionally, chia seeds' high fiber content can help promote a feeling of fullness, making them an excellent choice for weight loss or weight management. Furthermore, chia seeds are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to have anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, drinking chia seed lemon water may help to reduce inflammation throughout the body. 

How To Make Chia Seeds Drink:

 how to drink chia seeds in water

Chia seeds have taken the health food world by storm recently and for a good reason. These tiny seeds are packed with nutrients and offer various health benefits. One of the easiest ways to enjoy chia seeds is to make a simple drink using just chia seeds and water. Here's how to do it:

  1. Start by measuring out two tablespoons of chia seeds.
  2. Add the chia seeds to a glass or jar.
  3. Pour in water, making sure to cover the seeds.
  4. Stir well and sit for 15 minutes until the mixture has thickened.
  5. Enjoy as is, or add your favorite flavorings like fresh fruit, honey, or mint leaves.

FAQs

What are chia seeds?

Chia seeds are tiny, black, and shiny. They come from the desert plant Salvia hispanica, which is a member of the mint family. Chia seeds were an important food crop for the Aztecs and Mayans back in the day. They're high in fiber, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants. They absorb water and swell up to form a thick gel that can help you feel full after eating them.

What are the benefits of eating chia seeds?

Chia seeds are a superfood that are high in fiber, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids. They have many health benefits, including weight loss, improved digestion, and reduced inflammation. Additionally, chia seeds are a great source of minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and calcium.

Where can I buy chia seeds?

Chia seeds are widely available in health food stores and online retailers. When purchasing chia seeds, look for a brand that offers them in bulk, as this will help to keep costs down. In addition, be sure to check the expiration date on the package, as chia seeds can go wrong if they are not stored properly. When kept in a cool, dry place, chia seeds can last for up to two years. With their many health benefits and long shelf life, chia seeds are a great addition to any pantry.

What are chia seeds, and what do they taste like?

Chia seeds are tiny, black seeds that come from the Salvia hispanica plant. Although they have been used in traditional Mexican cuisine for centuries, they have only recently gained popularity in the United States. Chia seeds are a good source of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, making them a healthy addition to any diet. In terms of taste, chia seeds have a nutty flavor that is similar to that of poppy seeds. They can be added to various dishes or simply enjoyed on their own as a snack.

How should I eat chia seeds?

There are many ways to eat chia seeds! You can add them to your favorite yogurt, mix them into oatmeal or smoothies, sprinkle them on top of salads or use them as an egg replacer in baking recipes. Chia seeds are also a great way to boost the nutritional value of homemade energy bars or healthy snacks.

When it comes to cooking with chia seeds, the options are endless. You can use them as a thickener for soups or sauces, incorporate them into grain-based dishes like risotto or pilafs, or even bake them into pieces of bread, muffins, and other baked goods. If you're looking for a new breakfast idea, try making overnight oats with chia seeds

Are there any recipes that include chia seeds that you would recommend?

Answer: Yes! Many recipes include chia seeds. Some of our favorites include chia pudding, chia seed jam, and chia seed energy bars.

Chia seeds are a great addition to any recipe because they are packed with fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids. They also have a mild flavor that goes well with both sweet and savory dishes. So whether you're looking for a quick breakfast on the go or a healthy snack to keep you energized, chia seeds are a great option!

Conclusion

Chia seeds are an excellent source of dietary fiber and protein. They have a high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids and are rich in minerals like calcium and iron. They are easy to add to any meal and can be used in various dishes and desserts. Chia seeds can help lower blood sugar levels, making them a good choice for people with diabetes.

They are also rich in antioxidants, can help prevent heart disease, and can help with weight management. Chia seeds are also a good source of protein, fiber, and minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, and zinc. Chia seeds are great for your health, your Skin, and your hair. They are easy to add to your daily diet and can be used in various recipes. With their numerous health benefits, it is no mystery why chia seeds are so popular.

Prev Post
Next Post
Someone recently bought a

Thanks for subscribing!

This email has been registered!

Shop the look

Choose Options

Recently Viewed

Edit Option
Back In Stock Notification
Terms & Conditions

Choose Options

this is just a warning
Login
Shopping Cart
0 items