Chia Seeds

Chia is a small, round South American seed that is very popular with those who are interested in healthy living. Those of you who have used flaxseed before will be familiar with the fact that it absorbs a lot of water and hence swells when exposed to it. Chia is the same in this respect, and in fact has a lot of similar qualities to flax, but even more beyond this - I have heard it referred to as 'flaxseed on crack' ;-)

Chia seeds are particularly high in magnesium, potassium, calcium and iron, and hence are a great food to eat to replenish minerals. Chia is one of the best foods for active people (as it helps maintain energy levels during a workout, and also with recovery after), but fantastic for anyone who is interested in packing in optimum nutrition. It is high in soluble fibre (the type of fibre that keeps things moving, so to speak) and insoluble fibre (the fibre which causes 'bulk'), and this combination helps to sustain energy and maintain fullness, as well as a healthy bowel movement! It is packed with antioxidants and contains about 20% high-quality protein.

Chia contains the highest amount of bioavailable omega-3 fats of any known plant food. It is an excellent source of energy and also hydration, due to the fact that when eating it (after it has absorbed any liquid you will have mixed it with) you are then consuming all of that liquid too, to be slowly released into the body. They actually absorb up to 4 times their weight in liquid.

You may have added chia seeds into smoothies, it is also really good ground, and then used in the same way as you would use flax for a flax egg, but I would strongly recommend taking advantage of their strange and wonderful texture without blending them up, to make a pudding or breakfast. Here is one Savannah and I enjoy: Chia Seed Breakfast Pudding.

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