Why Chia Seeds

Organic Chia Seeds

Why Chia Seeds…

Loaded with nutrients for the body and brain Chia Seeds are one of the healthiest foods on the planet.

A 1 ounce (28 grams) serving of chia seeds contains (about 2 tablespoons):

*Fiber: 11 grams.

*Protein: 4 grams.

*Fat: 9 grams (5 of which are Omega-3s).

*Calcium: 18% of the RDA.

*Manganese: 30% of the RDA.

*Magnesium: 30% of the RDA.

*Phosphorus: 27% of the RDA.

*They also contain a decent amount of Zinc, Vitamin B3 (Niacin), Potassium, Vitamin *B1 (Thiamine) and Vitamin B2.

* 137 calories and 1g of digestible carbohydrates

 

Chia or Salvia Hispanica is related to the mint family and these tiny seeds grow native in South America. Back in the day, chia seeds were prized for their ability to provide energy. They were a very important food for the Aztecs and Mayan people. In fact Chia was the Mayan word for “strength”.

Thank goodness they are gaining popularity once again.

Here are just five of the reasons, Why chia seeds…

  • These tiny wonders are naturally gluten free and are loaded with anti-oxidants. These antioxidants protect the sensitive fats in the seeds from going rancid, antioxidants also fight the production of free radicals in our bodies, which can damage molecules in cells and contribute to ageing and diseases like cancer.
  • With 40% fiber chia seeds are one of the best sources of fiber in the world. Looking at the nutrition profile of chia seeds, you see that an ounce has 12 grams of “carbohydrate.”  However… 11 of those grams are fiber, which isn’t digested by the body.  Fiber doesn’t raise blood sugar, doesn’t require insulin to be disposed of and therefore shouldn’t count as a carb.  Chia seeds absorb 10-12 weight in water becoming gel-like, slowing the absorption of food and helping you eat fewer calories.
  • Chia seeds really are an excellent protein source, especially for people who eat little or no animal products. Containing 14% protein and a good balance of essential amino acids make this protein source easy for the body to utilize.
  • Gram for gram they contain more Omega-3’s than salmon. Since the body needs help converting ALA to DHA make sure to get coconut oil in your diet as well. The medium chain fatty acids in coconut oil increase the body’s ability to convert ALA (the omega-3 found in most plants) to DHA (the omega-3 so helpful to the brain) by 300%
  • With 18% RDA of calcium in one ounce, chia seed has impressive calcium content. Higher than most dairy products. Chia seed is also very high in phosphorus and magnesium as well. Making it a great addition to any diet for bone health.

So Enjoy some chia seed today!

organic chia pudding

Energy Bites

Energy Bites

Cranberry Craze

DSC00545

Ingredients

½ c. Almonds

½ c. Cashews

1 c. pitted Dates

½ c. dried Cranberries

1 T. Chia seed

Process all ingredients in food processor till well combined and dough like consistency.

Shape into balls.

 

 

Goji GoodnessDSC00538

Ingredients

½ c. Almonds

½ c. Cashews

1 c. Dates

½ c. Goji berries

2 T. Hulled Hemp seeds

2 T. Chia seeds

Process all ingredients in food processor till well combined and dough like consistency.

Shape into balls.

 

Key:  c=cup, T=tablespoon, t=teaspoon

Recipe courtesy: Tammy Alvord

Photo courtesy: Tammy Alvord