Nutritious, metabolic, supporting the cardiovascular system, supporting the nervous system, anti-inflammatory
USE IN TRADITIONAL PERUVIAN MEDICINE:
Source of Omega 3, minerals, vitamins, microelements, sport, energy
Endurance
Nerves
Memory
Cholesterol
Heart, veins
Intestines
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PLANT AND ITS PRESENCE
Salvia Hispanica – Chia has grown in some parts of Central and South America for over 4000 years. It grows up to 1,5 meters high. Depending on the type, its flowers are white or blue/violet. When it finishes blossoming it creates round fruits that contain small, smooth, shiny, oval seeds, 2mm long, and 1,5mm wide. Their color ranges from white to brown, and grey/black. Salvia Hispanica is extremely demanding when it comes to the conditions of growing. It requires a certain type of climate to grow. It cannot grow just anywhere. Of course it has an impact on its price. The name Chia comes from the Aztec word “chian” which means oily, because it is a rich source of fatty acids omega-3. They are also called “the seeds of runners”, because according to the tradition they are able to boost the endurance during long-distance runs.
900 years B.C. Chia was used in some parts of Mexico as money, what only proves its high value and price. The seeds of Chia were traditional dish of the Aztecs and Mayas, that always carried a good supply of them, because they provided them with energy, helped them to overcome harsh conditions, and boost endurance during military journeys.
MORE INFORMATION
Chia remained forgotten for many years. In the recent years it has stirred the curiosity of scientists. Thanks to that, its high nutritious value was backed up by scientific research.
Chia is a rich source of Omega. That is mainly alpha linolenic acid, which is an essential ingredient in food, and the body cannot make it on its own. It is one of the richest plant-based sources of Omega-3 acids. (The richest source of Omega 3, 6, and 9 are the crops of the Peruvian plant Sacha Inchi). Chia is also a very rich source of antioxidants, fiber, vitamin E and B, minerals, mostly iron, magnesium, kalium, phosphor, and zinc.
It also contains light protein – 19-23% of their mass is protein, excellent quality, dissoluble fiber is 27% - it is in the form of mucus which helps to reduce the body weight, and can be helpful to fight obesity. It does not contain gluten, and that is why it can serve as a nutritious snack for ones suffering from celiac syndrome. When you mix Chia with water it creates some kind of gel layer. The seeds can multiply its size 12 times. The longer they remain in water, the bigger gel surface is created around them. After consumption they give a feeling of satiety, they help with absorption of nutritious substances, and are also great for hydrating the organism. What is the impact of Chia on our body? The Chia seeds are a perfect antioxidant, they help to reduce the level of cholesterol (LDL), and neutral fat in blood, they prevent cardiovascular diseases, they have beneficial influence on heart and blood vessels, as well as cell walls, they strengthen the nervous system, improve the memory, prevent Alzheimer.
The high content of Omega 3 helps with the transportation of nutritious acids from the digestive system, it helps to improve the metabolism, burn fats, and aids with the assimilation of nutritious substances.
The Chia seeds slow down the absorption of carbohydrates and regulate the level of sugar in blood. Therefore, they are perfect for diabetics. The research carried out in the Toronto University proved that diabetics who consumed Chia seeds for a month greatly managed to reduce the level of sugar in their blood.
Chia can also greatly reduce the danger of other diseases such as a stroke, some kinds of cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, intestines inflammation, ulcer inflammation of colon, and mental illnesses.
The content of Omega 3 acids and their antioxidant properties help to maintain and restore the flexibility and good look of the skin. It reduces the inflammation and symptoms of acne. The content of amino acids helps to keep the skin young. Omega 3 is used in beauty products industry as an ingredient responsible for regenerating skin. Those inconspicuous seeds in short time gained incredible popularity all over the world.
The seeds found their way to the menu of people who take good care of their health and looks, and it is all thanks to the amazing nutritious properties that lie within them. Thanks to the large amount of antioxidants, Chia can be stored for years without losing the flavor, aroma and the nutritious value. This is just another great thing about them.
USE AND MOST COMMON DOSAGE
How to use Chia?
The Chia seeds can be added to sweets, deserts, snacks, spices, yoghurt, and even baby food.
Chia can be used in many different ways:
As jelly – a few minutes before the meal soak the seeds in a glass of water (mineral, or boiled – chlorine can destroy the qualities of the seeds). The seeds absorb the water and form some kind of jelly. Mixed well can be stored in fridge even up to 30 days.
The flavor of Chia is neutral and can be mixed with many dishes or drinks. It can be added to juices, milk, yoghurts, salad dressing, sauces, soups, creams, desserts, cakes, baked goods, and bread. You can experiment as much as you want, and it will always enrich any kind of dish.
For example: you can prepare great, refreshing drink with Camu Camu (the biggest natural source of vitamin C).
Preparation: Mix Chia with water and Camu Camu powder. You get refreshing, jelly-like, acidulous, extremely nutritious and strengthening drink.
The regular consumption of Chia can prevent many diseases. 2-3 teaspoons a day is enough.
