There’s a bit of buzz about Chia seeds as a super food. Most of us are familiar with the “Chia Pets” given as gag gifts when we can’t think of anything useful to give someone. It turns out that the Chia seeds, Salvia hispanica, were an important part of the Aztec diet and were used by Aztec warriors for stamina on long marches. The Spanish conquerors outlawed the production of Chia since they considered the seed to be part of pagan rituals. In recent decades the seed has made a well-deserved comeback.
Composition of Chia Seeds
The seeds:
- are high in Omega-3 (ALA), about 60% by weight
- contain 19% to 23% protein by weight
- are high in fiber, they can absorb 30 times their weight in water, so they slow down water and sugar absorption during digestion
- are rich in B vitamins, Boron and Calcium. (600mg of Ca in just 2 ounces of seeds)
- contain antioxidants—Vitamin C, vitamin E and Cinnamic Acids
Health Benefits of Chia
Due to their composition they can be expected to benefit our health in several ways:
- Weight loss, a small amount of Chia will increase the feeling of fullness, and provide needed fiber.
- Heart disease, due to the Omega-3 content
- Digestive disorders due to the extra fiber
- Diabetes since the fiber will help to stretch out the sugar absorption by the blood.
- Bone health due to the mineral content
- The Aztecs used the seeds for joint pain and skin conditions
Chia seeds can be eaten separately or sprinkled on cereals or salads. One can also soak the seeds in water and then use the resulting gel in smoothies or shakes. They have a very slight nutty flavor so they only slightly alter the flavor of other ingredients. They have a long shelf-life due to the antioxidants.
The cost is between US$6 and $12 per pound. Expect to pay about US$10 per pound in normal household quantities.
