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Cultivated by the pre-Columbian populations of America, essential in the diet of warriors and in offerings to the gods, chia seeds are historically recognized as a superfood.
These small seeds have the great ability to help bring balance to our body and are an excellent ally in the kitchen to add as a final touch to our dishes or to experiment with new energizing recipes.
Want to learn more about these seeds of strength? Keep reading!
The history of chia seeds is ancient and dates back to the peoples who inhabited the American continent before the Spanish conquest. The Aztecs and the Mayans were well aware of the countless properties of this plant and cultivated it with care and veneration. The importance attributed to chia was such that its seeds were used to pay tribute to the emperor and as a votive offering to the gods during propitiatory rites.
Chia seeds, along with corn, amaranth, and beans, were a distinctive product in the diet of these populations as a primary source of vegetable fats. They were called seeds of strength and were mainly used by soldiers during wars to charge themselves with the vigor and courage necessary to honorably overcome battles.
Incorporate organic chia seeds into your diet
With the discovery of America by Christopher Columbus and the arrival of European conquest expeditions, the populations of the Mayans and Aztecs were decimated and reduced to slavery, and with them, the cultivation of Chia disappeared for a long time.
The rediscovery of the nutritional importance of chia seeds has allowed the cultivation of this magnificent plant to resume in its countries of origin and it is a major protagonist in the food tradition of Argentina, Mexico, Paraguay, and Guatemala.
Even in Europe, the consumption of chia seeds is increasingly widespread and, thanks to their countless virtues, they are classified as a superfood.
The plant from which they originate is Salvia Hispanica, belonging to the Lamiaceae family (like mint, lemon balm, and lavender), also known for its beautiful intense blue flowers.
The name chia, by which the plant and its seeds are known, derives from a word in the Uto-Aztecan dialect, the adjective chian, "oily", with which the ancient peoples of the Americas described the main property of these precious seeds.
If you are looking for a natural supplement to easily combine with your dishes or to experiment with new recipes, chia seeds are what you need!
The characteristic of these seeds is their being a very rich source of unsaturated omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, essential for strengthening the nervous and cardiovascular system and preventing possible heart diseases. Fatty acids also contribute to the stimulation of the endocrine system, important for the production of hormones necessary for our health.
Thanks to their low glycemic index, among the benefits of chia seeds we find a regulatory action on blood pressure, ensuring an optimal level of cholesterol in the blood.
Their richness in fibers makes chia seeds ideal for constipation: 28 grams of chia seeds turn into a whopping 11 grams of fiber! These are insoluble fibers, excellent for reducing bloating, ensuring constant energy levels throughout the day and a prolonged feeling of satiety, if the seeds are consumed in the morning.
Among the properties of chia seeds, it is worth mentioning that in addition to the abundance of fibers and unsaturated fats, they have the ability to promote the integration of a large number of minerals and vitamins. Calcium, iron, potassium, selenium, zinc, and magnesium are present in chia in very high percentages: just think that their Calcium content is about five times higher than that found in milk!
The concentration and variety of vitamins are also remarkable: chia seeds are rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Vitamin C (seven times higher than that of oranges!) and Vitamin B6.
However, they do not contain Vitamin B12, the supplementation of which is essential in vegetarian and vegan diets.
This superfood also has a higher percentage of protein compared to other cereals and ensures the absorption of all nine essential amino acids, therefore standing out as a high-quality plant protein.
Finally, chia seeds are rich in polyphenols and antioxidants, which promote the strengthening of the immune system, and are naturally gluten-free.
Experience all the benefits of chia seeds
The extraordinary properties may hide some contraindications in chia seeds?
In 2019, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) published a study certifying the absolute food safety of chia seeds. We can therefore take advantage of this ancient superfood without fearing that chia seeds are dangerous - unless there is a specific allergy to chia.
Can chia seeds be dangerous for the thyroid or during pregnancy? Let's clarify!
Chia seeds can be consumed even during pregnancy: their high concentration of nutrients and low glycemic index make them a natural supplement of essential minerals and vitamins during gestation.
However, the high fiber content of chia may slow down the absorption of dietary minerals (Calcium, Iron, and Iodine) from other foods. To avoid burdening digestion, it is recommended not to combine chia seeds with foods such as spinach, legumes, or nuts.
Similarly, for those dealing with thyroid disorders, it is advisable to eat chia seeds at a distance from taking medication to ensure proper absorption, but not necessarily eliminate chia from their diet because it can be a good ally. Its selenium and zinc content, in fact, can facilitate the functioning of the thyroid gland.
Now that you know all the special properties of these seeds, all you have to do is try them!
Chia seeds are very crunchy and have a neutral flavor, perfect for adding an extra touch in the kitchen from breakfast to dinner: ideal to add to yogurt with muesli and fruit, but also to make a classic salad more appetizing or make a toast more special.
It is important to consume them raw, without toasting or grinding them, to not ruin the quality of their fats and preserve all their properties of chia seeds.
By soaking them, they will become a great asset in the kitchen, also as gelatinous thickener to be combined, for example, with water or plant-based milk to make puddings, soups, and vegan mayonnaise. Moreover, chia seed gel also has a purifying action on the intestines, ensuring their proper functioning.
Alternatively, chia seeds can be used to enrich water or tea creating energizing drinks, exceptional for refreshing during the summer months.
Bring organic chia seeds into your kitchen
With our chia seeds from organic farming, we have created the perfect cold drink to recharge during the hottest days.
In a pitcher, just add a teaspoon of ginger, lemon juice, and half a liter of fresh water. Then, pour a tablespoon of chia seeds and mix carefully to distribute the seeds well.
Let the drink rest for about half an hour and it is ready to be enjoyed!
We can add some lemon slices and mint leaves to enhance the flavor and increase its refreshing effect.
Can't wait to taste the flavor and benefits of chia seeds? Try them and share ideas for new recipes with our entire plant lovers community!
