The chia is an herb of the Lamiaceae family and is native to
mountainous areas of Mexico. More than 3500 years BC it was known as a very
important food in relation to medicine. In pre-Columbian times to the Maya it was
one of the four basic crops used for food, along with corn, beans and amaranth.
Chia seeds pose very high nutritional value and medicinal
properties. It is the largest plant source of omega-3.
They can be eaten whole or crushed, but whole seeds should
leave them to soak in water 30 minutes, until it forms an almost solid gelatin.
This gel-forming reaction and is due to the soluble fiber
found in chia. The seed does not need soaking crushed because it is absorbed
much faster into the body, can be consumed mixed in juices, milk, yogurt,
salads, sauces, soups, stuffings, etc..
The nutritional importance of chia ingredients makes it
ideal for adding to baked goods.
It is advisable to consume at least one teaspoon of these
seeds per day to cover basic needs.
Benefits and features:
Chia seeds reduce the rate of heart disease and high blood
pressure normalized, also reduce the level of cholesterol, protect the heart
against damage from heart attacks, have an important role in the nervous and
immune system, assist in the healthy development of pregnancy and child growth.
Chia seed is a great antioxidant, helps protect the fatty
acids, protects against tumors, cardiovascular diseases, inflammation, viruses
and free radicals.
It does not contain gluten, so it's great to be consumed by
celiac. It is a good source of vitamins of group B.
It has minerals, calcium, magnesium, potassium and
phosphorus. In terms of trace elements, is a huge source of iron, has high
levels of zinc and manganese.
Another virtue of chia is good quantity and quality of fiber,
which aid digestion, intestinal transit and have satiating effect. Helps
maintain good health of the nervous and immune system in muscle growth and
tissue regeneration.