The Surprising Benefits of Chia Seeds

What are chia seeds?

Pronounced “chee-a”, chia seeds may be small in size, but they’re enormous in stature when it comes to nutritional value.

Chia seeds are an unprocessed ‘whole’ food which is easily absorbed by the body, and can be eaten raw or added to recipes. Chia seeds are black, white or dark brown in colour: add them to your bread or muffin bases for an added nutty taste.

Where are chia seeds grown?

Originally grown and harvested in Mexico from the desert plant Salvia hispanica, chia is now grown in other parts of Central and South America as well as Australia.

Chia has been a traditional part of the Mayan, Aztec and Inca diets for thousands of years. In fact, the word “chia” means “strength”: it's believed that the Mayan and Aztec cultures included the seeds in their diet to help boost their energy levels.

What are the benefits of chia seeds?

There's a sound nutritional reason why chia seeds are constantly referred to as a superfood. They’re one of the planet’s richest plant-based sources of omega-3 fatty acids.

And if you suffer from that dreaded 3pm slump, add chia to your favourite smoothie along with protein powder and berries to help get you through the afternoon.

Who is it for?

Watching your weight? Then add a teaspoon of chia to your morning cereal, smoothie, salad or stir-fry. Chia seeds contain insoluble fibre which may help you to feel fuller for longer.

And if you suffer from mild and occasional constipation or irregular bowel movements, then fibre-filled chia seeds may just help you loosen up a little.