Chia

have just come across Chia seeds - so am eating them for energy - so far so good :

Chia is an edible seed that comes from the desert plant Salvia hispanica, a member of the mint family that grows abundantly in southern Mexico. In pre-Columbian times they were a main component of the Aztec and Mayan diets and were the basic survival ration of Aztec warriors : one tablespoon was believed to sustain an individual for 24 hours. The Aztecs also used chia medicinally to stimulate saliva flow and to relieve joint pain and sore skin.

When chia seeds are submerged in water the seeds open up, often absorbing nine times their weight in water, and form a tasteless gel that helps to keep your body hydrated.

Chia gel is made up of 90% soluble fiber, which benefits the digestive track. The soluble fiber forms a wall between carbohydrates and the body, allowing a slow release into the body, giving the feeling of being full which a great way to control the appetite. This has been suggested to be very helpful for people, like diabetics, who have trouble controlling their sugar levels.

The chia seed has twice the protein of any other seed or grain and five times the calcium of milk. Chia seeds also contain boron which is a trace mineral that helps with the absorption of calcium. The essential fatty acids, Omega 3 and Omega 6 are also present in the seeds.

Incorporating chia seeds into the daily diet has shown to enhance the nutrient absorption of all foods, including nutritional supplements. It has its uses as an aid for GERD, ulcers, gastritis and irritable bowel syndrome.

Other suggested chia seeds health benefits include: assisting physical activity (endurance), added nutrition, as well as controlling weight or sugar levels.

The best way to consume chia seeds is to take them only after being soaked in water (or dry with some other liquid) so they do not absorb the fluid within your body possibly leading to dehydration. The seeds may be added to water, juice and other foods.