Chia Seed History
You
have probably heard a lot about Chia Seed lately as it has become the latest
sexy food and is in all the medias, but it has been around for centuries and
was a diet staple of the Aztecs and Mayans. Chia Seed originated around 1500
and 900 B.C. in Mexico but are now also cultivated in Central and South
Americas. They are tiny seeds about the size of a gnat but are a powerhouse of
nutrients. It is hailed as the be-all for its ability to cut cravings, balance
blood sugar levels, lower cholesterol, triglycerides, improve cardiovascular
disease, blood pressure and promote weight loss. Historically, the seeds were
used to provide energy during long hunts as well as medicinally. Reverend by
the people, Chia Seed was often used in religious ceremonies leading to
its ban by the Spanish during their conquest of the region.
Nutritional Benefits
Chia Seed are a valuable source of Omega-3
essential fatty acid which is important for supporting normal cardiovascular
function. They are easily digestible and unlike Flax Seed, they do not need to
be ground. Their mild, nutty flavor makes them versatile enough to toss into
just about any dish from sweet to savory.
Chia Seeds hold between 9-12 times
their weight in water and take on the flavor of whatever it is mixed with. They
absorb quickly and once fully saturated the seeds have a slight resemblance to
tapioca. These gel-like seeds have a tendency to keep a person feeling full for
hours, which is great for the person trying to lose weight. Hunger is often the
greatest culprit for overeating and sabotaging weight loss goals.
However, it is important to note there are no studies to date showing that eating Chia Seed results
in weight loss. There are no miracles in losing weight; hard work is required.
Because of the high consumption of
processed foods today, diet related diseases such as the painful conditions of Diverticulitis
and Diverticulosis are becoming more prevalent; and suffers of
diverticulitis and diverticulosis have been instructed to eliminate nuts and seeds
from their diet; however, studies now show this is not the case. In fact, the most
successful and cost effective way to prevent these painful symptoms are to
significantly increase fiber from foods in the diet. If celery isn't your cup
of tea or you are having difficulties eating enough fiber to meet your
recommended dietary allowances (RDA), consider a serving of Chia Seed daily.
Each Chia Seed is coated with gel-like soluble fiber and is protected by an
insoluble fiber exterior. The two together helps food glide through the
digestive system for regularity and the soluble fiber keeps the colon hydrated
and lubricated so food passes effortlessly.
The unique makeup of Chia Seed with
its perfectly complimentary soluble and insoluble fiber content slows the
body's conversion of starches into sugars. This helps stabilize blood sugar
keeping energy levels consistent throughout the day. Healthy blood sugar levels
keep the body feeling energized instead of tired, often resulting in poor
pick-me-up food choices. By keeping blood sugars balanced it reduces the risk
for developing diabetes type II; and if eaten with food, it helps convert food into a
constant release of energy.
Chia Seed are a nutritional
powerhouse for antioxidants as well as important minerals. A serving of
Chia Seed is comparable to fresh blueberries at a fraction of the cost.
Antioxidants ward off free radicals and play a crucial role in many bodily functions and are effective in preventing numerous
age-related diseases. It is as good for the skin as it is for the body.
How to Incorporate
I use Chia Seed in
my diet on nearly a daily bases. I sprinkle in soups, on meats, yogurt, baked
goods, salads, cereal, drinks and smoothies to name a few. I love Chia Seed
pudding which is very similar to Tapioca and my No Bake Oatmeal Cups.
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