The next superfood, Chia seeds

The super seed that’s creating a rage in the United States, chia is the newest wonder food that everybody wants to include in their diets. Find out what makes chia such a must-have!

What is chia?

Chia Seeds

Pronounced ‘kia’, these seeds are derived from a desert plant called the Salvia hispanica, which is a native of Mexico and is also grown in some of the south-western states of the US.

Chia is also the Mayan word for strength and that is just what this super food promises when consumed. Along with improved strength, it also gives a fillip to your energy, increases endurance, helps in weight loss and stabilises blood sugar levels. Phew! No surprises then, why the little seed is gaining such a big reputation.

Health benefits of chia 

Rich in omega-3 fatty acids – Chia packs more omega-3 fatty acids than even flax seed and salmon, and the benefits of omega-3 are legendary; from their ability to increase good cholesterol, reduce blood pressure, help manage diabetes, enhance moods and improve skin quality.

Packed with protein – While seeds and nuts tend to be rich in protein, the chia seed packs in twice as much protein as any other seed or grain.

Rich in potassium and calcium – If you thought bananas and milk were the gold standard when it came to being sources of potassium and calcium, think again. Chia seeds have twice the amount of potassium that bananas provide and five times the amount of calcium that milk has!

Brimming with antioxidants – Antioxidants help to protect your body’s cells from damage that can occur from exposure to chemicals, pollution etc. The healthy levels of antioxidants in chia seeds not only increase their own shelf life but also promote better health for you.

High in dietary fibre – Chia seeds have a high level of dietary fibre, one of the reasons they’re being touted as a dieter’s dream. Also the high amounts of soluble fibre help in lowering cholesterol and blood glucose levels, making it particularly help for those suffering from these lifestyle diseases.

And they’re gluten free! – Good news for those suffering from intolerance to wheat – chia seeds are gluten-free and can be consumed safely by all.

Especially recommended for athletes – According to reports, tribes during the Aztec empire used to communicate via runners who delivered messages from one tribe to another by running between them. And the stamina to survive for so many days and run such long distances was provided to them by the wonderful chia seed. Today again, the seed has come into the spotlight as a super food for runners, due to its strength and endurance boosting powers.

How do you consume chia?

These tiny seeds can be added to almost anything – from your morning eggs to smoothies and raitas, salads, sandwiches, cookies and other baked goods. Eat them as whole seeds, ground or as sprouts. While there’s no recommended dosage for the seeds, you could start with 1 teaspoon a day and increase it to 2 tablespoons over a period of a week. Pregnant or lactating women must consult their doctors before consuming the seeds.

Is chia available in India?

We checked some organic stores and found that they did not keep chia seeds. However, an internet search revealed that the seeds can be bought online in India.

Photograph by Magister Mathematicae, via Wikimedia Commons