The chia seed

If you were going to add just one thing to enhance your diet, you should make it the chia seed. That’s a pretty big call, I know, but I’m willing to put it out there. Not only are chia seeds easy to incorporate into your diet, but they are also packed full of nutrients and vitamins.

Chia seeds (pronounced chee-ah) are an ancient super food that has been used by the Mayans, Aztecs and Incas. Back in the day, chia seeds were considered medicine and were actually prized more than gold due to their incredible health enhancing properties. Chia seeds are thought to be the richest provider of Omega-3 fatty acids and soluble dietary fiber that we can add to our diets. The protein content is enough to meet the full amount of daily protein required in our diet. This tiny seed also provides us with vitamins B, C, E and calcium.

If a chia seed was to write a classified ad for itself, this is what it might say:

• Chia seeds have two times the protein of any other seed or grain.

• They are one of the best sources of fiber. They are fabulous colon cleansers and actually clear out the digestive tract so that you absorb more nutrients and eliminate waste more efficiently. They also prevent indigestion and heartburn without risk of harmful side effects.

• They help stabilise blood sugar levels – excellent for diabetics.

• Chia seeds are great if you’re trying to drop a couple of kilos. They bulk up food, make you feel full and they also cleanse the body of old “junk” so the body can detox effectively.

• They improve endurance, keep the body hydrated and your electrolytes balanced.

• They are packed with calcium and contain boron, which is a trace mineral that helps calcium get into your bones.

• The chia seed has three times more antioxidant activity than blueberries.

• They have three times more iron than spinach.

• They have incredibly high levels of Omega-3 and Omega-6, both of which are essential for brain function, reversing depression, and overall health.

• Because of its high amount of good fat, it manages to survive and thrive without any chemical interference. The bugs never touch it and so it needs absolutely no pesticides.

This is what you can do with them:

Chia gel
Add 1/3 cup of seeds to 2 cups of water. Stir the mixture well, to avoid clumping, then leave it in your fridge, in a sealed jar. It will take just 10 minutes for the gel to form, however more nutrients will be accessible to your body if you leave them to soak for a few hours. Many people like to make up a batch and leave it in the fridge where it will stay good for about three weeks. You can also add it to smoothies, juice, fruit, mix it with salad dressings.

Whole Seeds
Sprinkle the dry seeds onto salads, oats, and muesli or into muffins and cakes.

Positive affirmation for the day: I will take all the time I need to keep in touch with my Higher Power today. Meditation slows me down and brings me peace whenever I choose.

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Jess Ainscough