It's Okay to Eat your Chia Pet

There has been a lot in the news lately about "Chia Seeds".  They are actually the same seeds used in the "Chia Pets" figurines that first became popular in the 1980's.  Little did we ponder back then that the seeds were more than just part of a fun novelty item - they are actually very healthy to consume!

Chia seeds are a product of southern Mexico. They come from a desert plant called salvia hispanica.  The edible seeds contain a very high source of Omega-3 and also fiber, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, manganese, copper, iron, molybdenum, niacin, and zinc.  Unlike flax seeds, they do not need to be ground up in order to be utilized by the human body.  You can add them to almost anything such as yogurt, oatmeal, baked goods, or smoothies to name a few.  They have a slight nutty taste but are still very easy to disguise in any recipe.  I added them to my smoothie recipe and it tasted delicious!  I served it to my husband this morning and he had no idea!

Recent research has focused on the connection between consuming chia seeds and blood sugar levels.  Because the seeds contain so much fiber it is believed that the gelling action of the seeds slows down the digestion of carbohydrates in the stomach, therefore keeping blood sugar levels more consistent. 

In regards to Omega-3, the seeds contain a type called α-linolenic acid (ALA) which is different from the types of Omega-3 found in salmon or other cold water fish.  ALA needs to be converted in the body to the kind of Omega-3 found in fish.  Omega-3 from fish has been connected with heart health.  Plant sources are still a healthy choice.  So have a Chia smoothie to wash down your grilled salmon.