Chia Seed Its Health Benefits

Scientific Name: Chia Salvia Columbariae

Chia is a member of the mint family and grows naturally from the Mojave Desert all the way down Argentina. Chia for centuries was of great economic importance to Native Americans of Southwest and California Coast. It was a major food crop of Aztecs.

The roasted seeds were mixed with water and eaten as gruel or ground into flour for baking. Indians also placed the seeds in water to make poultices and drinks. One tablespoon of chia seeds mixed in water was reputed to have enough nutrition to sustain a man on a forced march for 24 hours. An infusion of the seeds was also given as a fever remedy and as a poultice for gunshot wounds by the Spanish Missionaries. At present long distance hikers eat Chia seeds to provide energy.

Chia seeds come in two colors: black and white, the black seeds are more abundant and cost less than the white one. The nutritional values of the two varieties are similar, but some study think the white may be more nutritious.

Chia Seed is a Good Source of: B vitamins, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, copper.

Nutritional Benefits:

• According to study, Chia possesses the highest percentage of the polyunsaturated fatty acids(linolenic and linoleic) of all crops. Chia seed contain 60% omega 3 fatty acids.
• The protein content of Chia is higher that other nutritional grains. Unlike other grains, it is a complete protein, meaning that it has the appropriate balance of all essential amino acids. About 19 to 23% of chia seed weight is protein.
• Chia seed is high in fiber, a 15 gm serving of chia seeds will provide 4 to 5 gm of fiber. Our body requires at least 35 gm of fiber a day to stay healthy.
• Chia seed contain boron which is essential for bone health.
• Chia seed is rich in calcium, about 2 oz of chia seeds contains 600 mg of Calcium, as compared to 120 mg for a cup of milk.
• Chia seeds has 2 times more potassium than banana.
• Chia seeds has 3 times more antioxidants than blueberries.

Uses of Chia Seeds: The pleasant and mild aroma of Chia seed makes it a versatile ingredient to any food preparation like baked goods, soup, sandwiches, sauces, smoothies and in recipes where you ordinarily use sesame seeds. Chia can be eaten raw, hydrated or cooked. Use about 1/4 teaspoon per serving.

Ailments wherein Chia Seeds is beneficial; fatigue,weight loss, reduces blood clot, heart disease, diabetes, bone and digestive problems.