Chia Seeds Superfood: A Nutrient-Dense Powerhouse

Chia seeds are a popular star ingredient in various healthy eating recipes, including baked goods, protein bars, and smoothies. As per the latest trends in food, Chia seed powder is one of the most sought-after superfoods. 

Why the hype around chia seeds? Aside from adding flavor and texture to your favorite foods, they also have health benefits.

Let's learn about Chia seeds to see why they're considered a superfood.

Chia seeds are small and round and come in black, brown, and white varieties. They are derived from the mint family's flowering plant Salvia hispanica. It is indigenous to Mexico and Guatemala. Although edible chia seeds are related to the chia plants made famous by Chia Pets, they are not the same seed.

When chia seeds are mixed with liquid, a gel forms around them, giving chia beverages a unique texture. They can absorb up to 12 times their weight in liquid, making them ideal for keeping baked goods moist.

Where Do Chia Seeds Originate?

Initially grown in Mexico, Chia has long been prized for its medicinal and nutritional properties. At one point, it was even used as currency.

Chia means "strength" in Mayan, and chia seeds were called "runners' food" because runners and warriors used them for fuel while running long distances or fighting. Aztec warriors ate them for energy and endurance, claiming that one spoonful could keep them going for 24 hours.

For centuries, Salvia hispanica has been used for its powerful healing properties in many branches of traditional medicine. Chia seeds have been mentioned as an essential ingredient in Ayurvedic diets.

Nutritional Information

Chia contains a high concentration of protein (amino acids), fiber, manganese, phosphorus, and calcium, thus making it a good chia seed protein powder. As previously stated, it is high in omega-3s (polyunsaturated fatty acids), namely linolenic and linoleic acids.

It also contains polyphenols and antioxidants like caffeic acid, rosmarinic acid, myricetin, quercetin, and others.

According to the USDA, one ounce (about 28 grams) of dried chia seeds contains approximately:

• 137 calories
• 3 grams of carbohydrates.
• 4 grams of protein.
• 6 grams of fat.
• 6 grams of dietary fiber. 
• 6 milligrams of manganese (30 percent DV)
• 265 milligrams of phosphorus (27% DV) 
• 177 milligrams of calcium (18% DV) 
• 1 milligram zinc (7 percent DV)
• 8 milligrams of potassium
• 1-milligram copper (3 percent DV) (1 percent DV)

Chia contains vitamins A, B, E, and D and minerals like iron, iodine, magnesium, copper, niacin, and thiamine.

Where to Buy?

Dried chia seeds can be found in most grocery stores' health food sections or ordered in bulk online. There are several varieties available, including:

• black 
• white
• milled 
• pre-hydrated chia

The most popular option is dried.

Regardless of the type, choose organic chia seed powder whenever possible, and check the expiration date to ensure they are safe to eat.

Wrapping Up

• The chia seed is a flowering plant found in Mexico and Guatemala belonging to the mint family. The chia nutrition profile is high in protein, fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential minerals like manganese, calcium, and phosphorus, which explains why chia seeds are so beneficial.
• There are numerous chia seed recipe options, ranging from desserts, and pudding to protein bars and baked goods, that you can try to incorporate this nutrient-rich seed into your diet and reap the benefits of chia seeds.
• Soak, grind, or eat chia seeds for a nutritious and delicious way to boost the benefits of your diet and reap the benefits of chia seeds. Chia seed protein powders a good supplement for fitness enthusiasts.

Green Jeeva offers Chia Seeds in bulk at competitive costs. Talk to us and place your order now.