Salvia hispanica is the Latin botanical name of the plant from which chia seeds are derived. Chia herb is an annual plant indigenous to Mexico and produced commercially in South America and Australia. Its scientific name is Salvia hispanica. Chia is one of the few members of the botanical family Labiatae, sometimes known as the mint family, or Lamiaceae, in which the seeds are the key part of interest.
Surprisingly along with being a healthy nibble in many diets, these are also used in clay figures known as the Chia Pets. The chia seeds are placed on the clay figure after being hydrated and begin to sprout.
Origin Of Chia Seeds
These natural seeds have been used for thousands of years. Salvia hispanica played a significant role in Aztec culture. The term "chian," which is Aztec, meaning "oily," is where the seed gets its name. Chia seeds were one of the primary dietary sources for the Aztec people. Individuals were expected to provide the seed of chia plants as payment when the Aztec priests sought taxes and tribute. While it is also widely said that the word "Chia" was initially used by the ancient group of people called the Mayans, meaning "Strength."
Initially, the Aztecs and Mayans began using Chia seeds around 3500 BC. Being a staple part of ancient diets, this superfood was considered heavenly due to its ability as an energy booster. That helped people work hard for longer durations. They were grown in central Mexico until 1700. Later, the cultivation was banned post the Spanish conquest, as natives used it in religious rituals.
5 Health Benefits Of Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are the ideal food as they are high in fibre, protein, essential omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and many vitamins. You ought to learn as much as possible about seeds' perks. So let's look at some of these seeds' incredible advantages and ways to consume them.
Helps You Lose Weight
Chia seeds provide 39% of the daily recommended fibre intake in a 1-ounce serving. When you eat the seeds, their soluble fibre absorbs water, enabling them to expand in your stomach and giving you a greater sense of fullness. Thus, Chia seeds' fibre and protein may help people who aim to lose weight. The protein in chia seeds may also aid in controlling hunger and calorie consumption.
Boosts Your Cardiovascular Health
Quercetin, an antioxidant found in chia seeds, can lower your chance of acquiring a number of illnesses, including heart disease. According to research, regular consumption of chia seeds can have many beneficial impacts on heart health, including preventing the elevation of LDL cholesterol, a significant risk factor for heart disease.
Strengthen Your Bones
To maintain healthy bone mineral density, which is a sign of bone strength, consuming enough nutrients is crucial. Magnesium and phosphorus are elements found in chia seeds essential for maintaining healthy bones. Moreover, one ounce of the seeds has 18% of the daily recommended calcium intake, which is necessary for strong bones, muscles, and nerves.
Reduces Chronic Inflammation
Heart disease and cancer are two illnesses that can be accelerated by chronic inflammation. Chia seeds contain the antioxidant caffeic acid, which can help in the body's battle against inflammation. Regular use of chia seeds may also aid in lowering inflammatory indicators, like Omega-3 fatty acids that support the body's ability to reduce inflammation by combating the swelling brought on by injuries.
Great For Skin And Hair Health
By supplying anti-inflammatory proteins, lipids, and ancillary phytonutrients that support preserving the health of skin cells, seeds aid in reinforcing the skin. A robust, healthy outer layer shields the body from diseases, pollutants, allergies, and irritants. Chia seeds can strengthen the skin barrier, helping the body fend off bacterial and fungal infections. They taste excellent, give the food some crunch, and support internal health and external beauty.
Healthy Recipes Using Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are simple to include in your diet. Since they have a relatively bland flavour, you may add them to almost anything. You've seen that chia seeds are becoming increasingly popular among people who are into fitness and health. These are excellent dietary addition that may be utilised to improve nutrition. Sprinkle chia seeds over your favourite breakfast and snack foods to enjoy the nutritional benefits. Let us look at some of the best ways to consume Chia seeds.
Mix Whole
A variety of recipes and sweets can be made with whole chia seeds. They can be utilised to make chia pudding or yoghurt, apple juice for a "sago" effect, nut milk, soy milk, or plain milk.
Grind And Soak
You need not be hesitant because grinding and soaking will not change the level of chia nourishment. The seeds should be briefly soaked in water, milk, or eggs before being crushed and mixed with hot oatmeal, mashed potatoes, and hamburger mix.
Add And Thicken
Adding whole or crushed seeds as a thickener to soups and stews is another ingenious method to integrate the Chia diet. Although a teaspoon is enough for a medium-sized pot, you may need to experiment with the amount of crushed seeds to add to the dish. The chia seeds go well with chicken, tuna, and vegetable soups.
Bake And Enjoy
To batter and dough for cakes, cookies, and bread, among other things, you can add whole or powdered chia seeds. How much Chia goes into the mixture will depend on your particular preferences; for example, a teaspoon for an entire pan.
Smooth As An Ice
The components for shakes and smoothies can also include chia seeds in the blender. Or you might use chia seeds, fruit puree, and fruit juice to create a nutritious ice cream topping.
Key Takeaway
While this may sound quite intriguing, one must be careful when choosing the right fresh chia seeds. Aurganicum thus has got organic chia seeds online purely sourced from the farmers.
