Chia Seeds: Super Seeds

Do you remember Chia Pets? Well, the seeds that are used to grow the animal shaped figurine’s sprouts that resemble hair or fur are the very same seeds that are now being consumed by health conscious people all over the world.

Chia seeds are tiny black seeds that come from the plant Salvia Hispanica, which is a member of the mint family. Did you know that chia seeds have been around since ancient times? Chia seeds were a dietary staple for the Aztecs and Mayans, mainly for their ability to provide sustainable energy. In fact, the name “chia” derived from the ancient Mayan word for “strength.”

Despite their ancient history as an important food source, only recently did chia seeds become popular and are now consumed by people all over the world. So, if you aren’t already including chia seeds in your diet, you may want to start doing so!

Ch-Ch-Ch-Chia Seeds Benefits:

Despite their tiny size, chia seeds are one of the most nutritious foods on the planet! They are loaded with fiber, Omega-3 fatty acids, protein and other nutrients.

Chia seeds are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, even more so than flax seeds. Omega- 3 fatty acids help brain function as well as growth. Another benefit is that they do not go rancid, so they can be stored longer than flax seed.

Chia seeds are a “whole grain” food, are usually grown organically, are non-GMO and naturally free of gluten.

Unlike flaxseeds, chia seeds do not have to be ground up to be absorbed by the body and to reap their nutritional benefits.

In addition to their super nutritional value, chia seeds absorb water. In fact, they can absorb seven to twelve times their weight in water, forming a gelatin-like substance. So when you consume chia seeds, they will expand in your stomach, and help you stall full longer. Chia seeds also help with hydration due to their ability to absorb water!

How to eat Chia Seeds:

The seeds themselves taste rather bland, so you can add them to pretty much anything. Just sprinkle into yogurt or cereal or bake into pancakes or muffins. They can be eaten raw, soaked in juice, added to puddings, or added to baked goods.

Chia seeds can also be mixed with water and turned into a gel.

A common dosage recommendation is 20 grams (about 1.5 tablespoons) of chia seeds, twice per day.

• These tiny seeds contain so much good stuff… not only do they offer a high level of nutrition and support a healthy lifestyle, they aid in weight loss. So, to complement your intense workouts (with Singlo Sport bamboo shirts, of course ) simply add chia seeds to your next recipe or drink!