a plant, Salvia columbariae, of the mint family, native to the southwestern U.S. and Mexico, having mostly basal, oblong leaves and small blue flowers; the seeds are primarily used as food.
A long, long time ago long before the era of terracotta chia pets -- the chia seed was cultivated and eaten by the ancient Aztecs, Incans, and Mayans and was considered a staple food alongside corn and beans. Chia is the Mayan word for strength, and though these cultures may not have had the medical research to back up their health claims, chia is enjoying an escalating renaissance by todays medical community as well as everyday consumers. A superior health food due to its nutritional density, chia is tiny dark brown seed, which is easily integrated into many foods. Navitas Naturals offers the wonderful chia seed in its whole organic state as well as in a sprouted powder form.
Chia seeds are an excellent source of dense nutrition with their healthy omega oils, easily digestible protein, and antioxidants. In fact, chia is so high in essential fatty acids that it contains eight times more omega-3s than salmon, gram for gram. Also full of dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals (especially calcium and iron), chia has much in common with flaxseed, with the distinct advantage that its natural antioxidants make its delicate healthy fats more nutritionally stable. Research has linked this valuable food as a being beneficial for many health issues, including diabetes, hypoglycemia, celiac disease, and lowering cholesterol.
Navitas Naturals Chia Power has a mild nutty flavor, and develops slightly sweet notes when sprouted. It may be used much like flax powder in creating a power breakfast: just sprinkle a spoonful into oatmeal, granola, cereal, or yogurt. It also works very well as a flour substitute and can be used to make hearty breads, crackers, and more. Additionally, chia is considered highly hydrophilic meaning the seeds have a unique ability to absorb liquid and form a gel (basic chia gel recipe). This makes chia especially good to use as a thickening agent in recipes like soup, smoothies, or enjoyed as a pudding with a touch of sweetener.