Superfood: Chia Seeds

" What is the Super Food Chia Seed? What is it used for, how is it consumed? Chia seeds have become one of the food products we hear about frequently in recent years due to their nutritional value and flavor. Chia seeds are a food product that needs to be examined in terms of their benefits and what chia seeds do in our diet… Although it has become popular in recent years, it actually has a very old origin dating back to Central America. Chia means "strength" in the Mayan language, and chia seeds were also known as "runners' food" because runners and warriors used chia seeds to increase their stamina when running long distances or during battle. Chia seed recipes have become a content that we all hear and read frequently. Not only do we read and watch, but many of us have already started to implement and include them in our nutrition routine. If you still have a distant stance against chia seeds, we recommend that you read this article until the end.   What is Chia Seed? Chia seeds are tiny black seeds from the salvia hispanica plant. Chia seeds are said to have been first cultivated thousands of years ago in the Mexican region as a staple food in Mesoamerican cultures among the Aztecs and Mayans. Chia seeds have a very mild flavor, so they don’t add much depth to dishes, but what they lack in taste or size, they make up for in nutrition. These seeds are incredibly versatile. Their ability to absorb liquid and form gels is especially notable. These small but mighty seeds are also loved and recommended by dietitians, being one of the healthiest seeds you can eat and definitely qualify as a top superfood or functional food. What are the benefits of chia seeds? Chia seeds are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and powerful antioxidants. Chia seeds contain omega-3 fatty acids, iron, calcium, and antioxidants. Studies and many sources say that chia seeds are an excellent source of fiber, which can help improve heart and gut health and balance cholesterol levels. Fiber takes longer to digest and keeps you feeling full for longer, which can help you lose weight and reduce your risk of diabetes or heart disease. These tiny, ancient seeds are packed with powerful nutrients that your body loves. What are the uses of chia seeds?   Chia seeds can be consumed raw by adding them to various foods such as oats, yogurt, smoothies, and on top of salads. It is also possible to add chia seeds to baked goods such as muffins, cookies, or use them as an egg substitute. This can be an alternative for people with egg allergies or intolerance or who follow a vegan diet. To use chia seeds instead of eggs, mix 1 tablespoon of chia seeds or 2 teaspoons of ground chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water, let it set for a few minutes, and when the mixture becomes gelatinous, you can use it instead of 1 egg. It can also be used by mixing it with organic almond flour and spices for breading, sprinkling it on foods such as buns, pastries, and pies, and adding it to soups. Store chia seeds in a cool, dark place. If you grind your seeds, it is recommended that you store them in an airtight bag or storage container in your refrigerator.   What can be done with chia seeds?   Chia seeds are a great superfood for increasing the nutritional value of many recipes and creating healthy, diet-friendly alternatives. Examples of these are; With Avocado Salad with Chia, you can both increase the nutritional value of your breakfast and prepare a delicious plate. How about a healthy dessert alternative for breakfast with Chia Sugar-Free Jams ? Raw Cocoa Coffee Chia Pudding is a perfect companion for sweet cravings. You can also create a small and delicious alternative to snacks with Chia Seed Yogurt . You can also add chia seeds to all your smoothies , sprinkle some on all your salads , and include them in recipes like homemade bread and muffins . We recommend that you use organic chia seeds for all recipes you prepare. If you are new to chia seeds and want to try them first, buying smaller amounts of chia seeds and switching to larger amounts once you get used to them may be an option.