Chia Seeds: Nutritional Benefits and Uses

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Where do chia seeds come from?

It is estimated that chia seeds have been used by humans for food, folk medicines and canvases for around 5500 years, starting with the Aztec and Mayan people. 1 They come from the Salvia hispanica plant, which is part of the mint family and can be found in Central and South America.

Are chia seeds hygroscopic?

The seeds are hygroscopic, absorbing up to 12 times their weight in liquid when soaked and developing a mucilaginous coating that gives chia-based foods and beverages a distinctive gel texture. There is evidence that the crop was widely cultivated by the Aztecs in pre-Columbian times and was a staple food for Mesoamerican cultures.

Are chia seeds healthy?

Overall, chia seeds may benefit heart health, but more research is needed. Chia seeds may reduce the risk of heart disease, likely due to the fiber and ALA they contain. However, more human research is needed. 5. Contain many important bone nutrients Chia seeds are high in several nutrients that are important for bone health, including:

What are chia seeds?

Chia seeds are the tiny black seeds of the chia plant ( Salvia hispanica ). Native to Mexico and Guatemala, they were a staple food for the ancient Aztecs and Mayans. In fact, “chia” is the ancient Mayan word for “strength” ( 1 ). Chia seeds are small, flat, and oval-shaped with a shiny and smooth texture.

What do chia seeds look like?

Chia seeds are small, flat, and oval-shaped with a shiny and smooth texture. Their color ranges from white to brown or black ( 2 ). These seeds are highly versatile. They can be soaked and added to porridge, made into pudding, used in baked goods, or simply sprinkled on top of salads or yogurt.

What Is Chia Seeds

1. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-proven-health-benefits-of-chia-seeds
2. https://www.hollandandbarrett.com/the-health-hub/food-drink/nutrition/can-i-chia-seeds/
3. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/benefits-of-chia-seeds
4. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chia_seed
5. https://patient.info/news-and-features/9-benefits-of-chia-seeds-and-when-theyre-not-safe
6. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/291334

Chia Seeds Information

1. https://www.verywellfit.com/chia-seed-nutrition-facts-4165659
2. https://www.verywellhealth.com/chia-seeds-uses-nutrition-and-more-7378110