Cherished chia
in Blogs

The chia seed was originally grown in Mexico and it is highly valued for its medicinal properties and nutritional value. The Aztec warriors consumed chia to give them increased energy and endurance: to them, it was considered more valuable than gold. In the Mayan language, chia means strength. It was known as ‘runners food’ because running messengers and warriors would carry a small sack of chia seeds with them and use them as fuel while running long distances or during battles - this was depicted in the popular book Born to Run.

Chia has great health benefits which include; high omega 3 oils, known to support brain development and therefore assists us in clarity and focus. It is also rich in fibre, which nourishes the digestive system, slowing down the release of sugars into the blood and therefore stabilising blood sugar levels. The seeds can absorb 9 to 12 times their weight, keeping you fuller for longer. Additionally, it functions as a colon cleanser and aids in elimination.

Chia can also provide support in the pursuit of fitness - it has anti-inflammatory properties, it contains body building protein, and it can potentially assist with weight loss. The high presence of omega 3’s, and the co-existing antioxidants that stop the oil from turning rancid, assists with cardiovascular health.  

The most common way to eat chia, and the best way to access their vitamins and minerals, is to soak or grind the seeds. By soaking them, you release the enzyme inhibitors which are used to protect the seed. This makes them easier to digest and to access all the valuable nutrients inside the seeds.

To soak chai, use 1.5 tablespoons of chia seeds in a glass of filtered water. Allow them to stand for 30 minutes to 2 hours. They will form a sort of gel, which can be used as needed.

Here are two super healthy and convenient ways of using chia:

Berry Jam

    - 2 cups fresh berries
    - ¼ cup filtered water
    - 2 tbsp ground chia seeds
    - 2 tbsp raw honey

  1. Place all the ingredients into a food processor and blend until smooth.
  2. Place the jam in a glass jar and leave it in the fridge for 30 minutes before using (to allow time for the seeds to thicken the jam).

Green smoothie (serves 2)

    - 150-200ml milk kefir
    - 1 scoop of protein powder
    - 2 bananas
    - ½ small pineapple
    - 2 tbsp raw honey
    - 1 tbsp chia
    - 1 tbsp green powder
    - 8-10 ice cubes

  1. Pour the kefir into a blender jug.
  2. Add the chia seeds and leave to stand for 20 minutes.
  3. Add all the other ingredients.
  4. Blend and enjoy.

The seeds make this smoothie double thick, so you may have to ‘eat’ it with a spoon!