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Chia Seeds: An Ancient American
Super Food
http://www.care2.com/greenliving/chia-seeds-an-ancient-american-super-food.html
Condensed by Native Village
We’ve all heard of chia
pets, but did you know the tiny
black seed that grows into chia
“fur” is a nourishing food
crop?
Chia is an annual plant with a square
stem, oval leaves and
small blue flowers. It is often
grown between rows of corn and
thrives at
high altitudes.
While Chia seeds may be expensive
(around $20 per pound), one
pound supplies a month’s worth of
breakfasts. It takes about 800,000
seeds to make up a pound.
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Chia Seed Facts
The name "chia" comes
from "chiabaan," a Mayan
word that means
“strengthening."
The Aztecs cultivated it
and even used it as
money.
Native peoples in
America's Southwest used chia seeds
for endurance. They could run
swiftly on a handful of chia seeds
and a gourd of water.
 Chia
seeds are a favorite of
athletes
today.
They help lubricate the
body and joints.
Chia
seeds are rich in
omega-3 and 6 fatty
acids which builds your
immune system and helps
brain function.
They are 20% protein on
a
dry weight basis.
They are rich in vitamin
B complex, biotin, calcium,
potassium and fiber.
They help regulate blood
sugar levels.
They are an excellent food for losing weight.
A small amount makes you
feel full.
Moistened
chia seeds
serve as a
poultice
to treat wounds and draw out infection.
Chia seed oil had been
used in cosmetics and as a wood
preservative.
Chia seeds
are rich in fiber and
help with constipation.
Chia has been used as a superfood for
cats, dogs and chickens.
Chia seeds have a long shelf life
and are slow to oxidize.
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Chia Recipes:
Prepare:
Soak 1/4 cup chia seeds in 2
cups water overnight. Stir
well to prevent clumping. Add
more water if needed.
Store leftover seeds in the refrigerator for several
days. |
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Breakfast: Add chopped apples, a handful of
raisins, blueberries, chopped nuts,
honey. |
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Dessert: Add chocolate and banana and nuts. |
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Chia: It's not
just for pets anymore!
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