Nutiva’s newest superfood is Organic Chia Seeds. An ancient food, the mighty chia seed was revered by the early Aztec and Inca cultures. Packed with fiber, protein, minerals, omega-3 and antioxidants, chia seeds are being rediscovered by healthy eaters everywhere. Below you’ll find a wealth of chia seed information, including great articles and recipes.
While it’s difficult to imagine life before supermarkets, fast food drive-thrus and 7-11s—humans really did once have a very different relationship with food.
At the time of the Spanish conquest (1492-1898), Mesoamerica had at least 29 domesticated botanical species serving a variety of functions, but four were nutritionally superior, comprising a majority of their daily diet: amaranth, beans, chia, and maize (corn). We’re all certainly familiar with beans and corn. Amaranth is a nutritious grain that is also easy to harvest. Though it’s not as common in the American diet, it is commonly used in cereals and baked goods. But what about chia?
Evidence of chia seeds use as early as 3500 BCE demonstrates its long reverence by humans. Today researchers are working to develop chia crops and conduct research on the many benefits of this ancient seed.
Chia (Salvia hispanica L) is a non-glutinous seed that provides a rich source of essential Omega-3 fatty acids, protein, antioxidants and fiber. A staple to ancient Aztecs, these “super seeds” are making a strong comeback among modern day health enthusiasts and foodies.
A one ounce (28 g) serving of chia seeds contain 9 percent of the recommended daily value for protein, 13 percent of oil and 42 percent of the recommended daily intake of dietary fiber. Chia is a rich source of essential minerals including phosphorous and manganese as well as calcium and trace amounts of sodium and potassium. Chia seeds also contain healthy antioxidants, including caffeic and chlorogenic acids, myricetin, quercetin, and kaempferol. Chia seed is a rich source of Omega-3, and in fact has more Omega-3 than flax seed. Omega-3 fatty acids support brain and heart function, promote healthy skin and hair and may prevent and treat certain mild types of depression.
Organic chia seeds are widely available and recommended as non-organic chia may be compromised by the use of chemical fertilizers, which also devastates ground water and can be harmful to animal and plant life.
Suggested Uses:
Versatile and easy to use, chia can be eaten dry, soaked in water as a gel, or added to baked goods.
Dry: Sprinkle chia seeds onto salads, soups, yogurt, even into sandwiches and wraps.
Baked goods: Use chia in recipes that call for sesame or poppy seeds. Add to muffins, bread, cookies and cakes.
Here is an excellent Chia Seed resource with fun examples on the many uses of Chia. If you are hesitant to give Chia Seeds a try, this article is full of all the information you need to make up your mind.
If you still need more convincing on why Chia Seeds are so amazing check out our “Why Organic Chia Seed?” video.
As many long-time EBF readers know, I LOVE chia seeds! My sister texted me a few nights ago asking for more info about them, which made me realize it was time for little refresher post on why I think chia seeds are so great. If you’re an avid blog reader, some of this info might be old news, but for everyone else here’s what you need to know about one of my favorite seeds – the ch-ch-ch-chia! <– I had to do it!
What are chia seeds?
“Chia is an edible seed that comes from the desert plant Salvia hispanica, a member of the mint family that grows abundantly in southern Mexico. You may have seen chia sprouts growing on the novelty planters called Chia Pets, but historically, the seeds have been the most important part of the plant. In pre-Columbian times they were a main component of the Aztec and Mayan diets and were the basic survival ration of Aztec warriors. I’ve read that one tablespoon was believed to sustain an individual for 24 hours. The Aztecs also used chia medicinally to stimulate saliva flow and to relieve joint pain and sore skin.” - Quoted from Dr.Weil
What do chia seeds taste like?
The flavor is very mild and almost non-existent. When they are combined with liquid they start to form a gel like consistency, so if you were to eat them plain the gelling process will start in your mouth. Although, I don’t often eat them plain, they’re better mixed in things like smoothies or oatmeal. [click to continue…]
Chia seeds have been a staple food for Mesoamericans for thousands of years. This very small, non-glutinous seed provides a rich source of essential Omega-3 fatty acids, protein, antioxidants, and fiber. This little seeds packs a punch with more omega fatty acids than flax seeds, 15 times more magnesium than broccoli, 6 times more calcium than whole milk, 30 percent more antioxidants than blueberries and twice as much potassium as bananas!
John W. Roulac, CEO of Nutiva, explains why organic chia seed is great for nutrition, portability, affordability. High in Omega-3 fatty acids, minerals and protein, chia seeds are an essential addition to a healthy diet.
COMING SOON! Nutiva is excited to announce the addition of 2 brand new varieties of Organic Chia Seeds. Stay tuned for more info.
How much do you know about Omega 3 Fats? How much do you know about Seeds? Which of the following seeds is richest in Omega 3 fats?
A) Flax Seed
B) Hemp Seed
C) Chia Seed
D) Borage Seed
The winning answer is the mighty Chia Seed, and 35% of you got it right!
The winner of the $50 Nutiva Gift Certificate is Elizabeth Pottenger. Congrats Elizabeth!
Check out this video for more information:
John W. Roulac, CEO of Nutiva, explains why organic chia seed is great for nutrition, portability, affordability. High in Omega-3 fatty acids, minerals and protein, chia seeds are an essential addition to a healthy diet.
Meet Anna Marie, the Seed Lady of Watts, as she shares how Nutiva Chia Seeds taste great, have extensive health benefits and can even be used on skin for facials! Anna Marie finds that when she eats Chia Seeds, she gets a burst of energy and happiness. She uses Chia Seed in salads, dressings, shakes, smoothies, and much more – perfect for her raw food diet. Learn more about Anna Marie, the Seed Lady of Watts at http://www.MeetAnnaCarter.com/
At the time of the Spanish conquest (1492-1898), Mesoamerica had at least 29 domesticated botanical species serving a variety of functions, but four were nutritionally superior, comprising a majority of their daily diet: amaranth, beans, chia, and maize (corn). We’re all certainly familiar with beans and corn. Amaranth is a nutritious grain that is also easy to harvest. Though it’s not as common in the American diet, it is commonly used in cereals and baked goods. But what about chia?
Here is an excellent Chia Seed resource with fun examples on the many uses of Chia. If you are hesitant to give Chia Seeds a try, this article is full of all the information you need to make up your mind.
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