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Navitas Naturals Announces The First Certified Organic Chia Seed

For Immediate Release
Contact: Mic LeBel (207) 563-7695
mic@planetfriendlypr.com

A Well-Balanced Source of Omega-3, Fiber, Antioxidants and Protein That Is Easy to Digest

Novato, CA (April 2, 2009) Chia seed is an ancient, nutrient-dense superfood that is one of the hottest natural products in the marketplace today. Now, superfoods leader Navitas Naturals is boosting the interest and confidence of health- and sustainability-minded consumers by introducing the first certified organic chia seed to North America. Sustainably harvested in the highlands of Mexico, raw Navitas Naturals Organic Chia Seed is offered in re-sealable 8oz and 16oz pouches, as well as bulk quantities for sale to manufacturers.

Chia seed (salvia hispanica) is a high-energy superfood that was revered by the ancient Aztecs as a staple of their diet long before modern food science demonstrated its impressive nutritional attributes (and before a creative marketer in the early 1980's invented the Chia Pet©!). This 'superseed' offers a unique blend of protein, fiber, essential fats, antioxidants, complex carbohydrates, and vitamins and minerals (including calcium, B vitamins, zinc, boron, potassium, copper and phosphorus).

Perhaps most notable, chia seed is a rich source of essential fatty acids (EFAs) which provides more than three times the healthy oil concentration of most grains. Chia's EFA profile features a combination of the Omega-3 and Omega-6 EFAs in an ideal ratio (3:2), recommended by nutrition experts. Approximately 60% of chia seed oil is alpha linolenic acid (ALA), compared to less than 10% of this important Omega-3 EFA in other leading alternatives such as soybean oil and canola oil. Chia seed has much in common with flaxseed, another highly regarded omega-3 source, but Chia has the distinct advantage of containing a wealth of natural antioxidants that provide a nutritional boost and help it maintain freshness and shelf life. Chia seed and its nutrients are also more easily digested than flax. Beyond its amazing EFA profile, chia seed is also cherished as a robust source of protein (over 20%) which contains all of the essential amino acids.

The chia seed also possesses more than 5% soluble fiber and absorbs as much as 12 times its weight in water! When introduced to fluids the seeds form a fascinating gel which creates a barrier between carbohydrates and the digestive enzymes that would break them down. This causes the carbs to be converted to glucose at a slow and steady rate which prevents insulin spikes and glucose instability. This absorption process and blood sugar regulation is a nice feature for diabetics and people looking to maintain a steady flow of energy. The water-retention provided by the chia seed gel also helps the body maintain proper hydration. Chia seed is gluten-free and has not been found to cause reactions for people with food allergies or sensitivities.

Navitas Naturals recommends that customers blend their Organic Chia Seed products into smoothies, granola, oatmeal and yogurt; add it to bread, muffin, cookie and pie recipes; and sprinkle it on soup, salad and rice dishes. Additionally, chia's unique ability to absorb liquid and form a gel makes it ideal for use as a nutritious thickening agent in recipes like soup, smoothies, sauces and puddings. Below is a recipe for the delicious beverage Chia Fresca Breeze (by Kristen Suzanne of www.KristensRaw.com‚ courtesy of Navitas Naturals). For more delicious superfood recipes, please visit www.navitasnaturals.com/recipes.

Chia Fresca Breeze

Yields approximately one 12-ounce serving
2 teaspoons Navitas Naturals Organic Chia Seeds
1 cup water
Juice of ½ grapefruit
2 teaspoons raw agave nectar
1 dash powdered ginger

Stir all of the ingredients together in a glass and enjoy.