I would like to introduce you to a “super” food known as the Chia Seed. This unique little seed has exceptional nutritive and structural benefits.

Chia is familiar to most of us as a seed used for the novelty of the Chia Pet^©, clay animals with sprouted Chia seeds covering their bodies. But most people have no idea that these tiny seeds have tremendous nutritional value and medicinal properties. Chia is rich in Omega 3’s, digestible proteins, antioxidants and dietary fiber. Just two tablespoons of Chia seeds contain 11 grams of fiber! That’s twice the amount of fiber in 1 whole cup of dried oatmeal. Not impressed yet?

If you try mixing a spoonful of Chia seeds in a glass of water and leave it for approximately 30 minutes or so, when you return the glass will appear to contain no seeds or water, but an almost solid gelatin. This gel-forming reaction is due to the soluble fiber in the Chia seeds. Research believe this same gel-forming phenomenon takes place in the stomach when food containing these gummy fibers, known as mucilages, are eaten. The gel that is formed in the stomach creates a physical barrier between carbohydrates and the digestive enzymes that break them down, thus slowing the conversion of carbohydrates into sugar. This is why people who suffer from diabetes can benefit from adding chia seeds to salads, smoothies or just about any meal or beverage.

Another unique quality of the Chia seed is its high oil content, and is the richest vegetable source for the essential omega-3 fatty acid. It has approximately three to ten times the oil concentrations of most grains and one and a half to two times the protein concentrations of other grains. The Chia seed is also a rich source of calcium as it contains the important mineral boron, which acts as catalyst for the absorption and utilization of the calcium by the body.

Chia, as an ingredient, is a dieter’s dream food. There are limitless ways to incorporate the Chia seed into your diet. Maria recommends purchasing White Chia Seeds from Living Intentions

To read more about Chia seeds visit www.living-foods.com/articles/chia.html

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