Chia seeds are tiny black seeds from the plant Salvia Hispanica, which is related to the mint family native of Mexico and Guatemala. These tiny seeds were an important food for the Aztecs and Mayans back in the day. It's remained in regular use in its native countries, but was largely unknown in North America until researcher Wayne Coates began studying chia as an option for farmers in northern Argentina about 29 years ago.
Despite their small size, chia seeds are loaded with essential nutrients and have been recognized as a modern day superfood. Chia seeds if dissolve into the water, forms a substance that looks like gelatin which is due to the soluble fiber in the Chia seed.
As reported in Fox News, Chia seeds have 70 percent more protein than soybeans, 25 percent more fiber than flaxseed, 600 percent more calcium than milk, 200 percent more potassium than a banana, and 30 percent more antioxidants than blueberries. Two tablespoons of chia also contain 5.1 grams of omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health, lower cholesterol and blood pressure and reduce inflammation. They also contain a decent amount of Zinc, Vitamin B3 (Niacin), Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) and Vitamin B2.
Here are some of the surprising uses of Chia Seeds:
As a flour substitute
Milled chia can replace cornstarch or thickening agents to thicken soups and gravy. Instead of breadcrumbs, with some garlic powder, or even by itself, milled chia can be make an excellent breading for fish, seafood, chicken or meat. Alternatively, it can be used as substitute of regular flour in baking. Just grind whole chia seeds in a spice mill, clean coffee grinder, blender or food processor to create your own milled chia seeds.
As an egg substitute
Like eggs, the chia gel is thick and smooth. A combination of a tablespoon of chia seeds and 3 tablespoons of room-temperature water is equal to a large egg. Just whisk the mixture and let it sit for about 20 minutes to get the gel form. It does not work though in place of eggs for omelets and sunny side up.
Use chia to reduce calories in condiments
Gel lowers down the fat and calories contents while promoting the nutritional profile when mixed with condiments. Mix 3 tablespoons of chia to 1 cup of purified room-temperature water in place of ketchup, mayonnaise and pre-made salad dressings.
As a homemade energy gel
Add a couple tablespoons of chia seeds to a cup of coconut water. Let sit for about ten minutes and you'll have an incredible energy gel! A study demonstrates that chia seeds can somehow replace Gatorade as a way of carb loading for endurance athletes, but this should be given further research.
You can find even more information about chia seeds on this page, including a detailed nutrient breakdown: Chia Seeds 101: Nutrition Facts and Health Effects.
