Healthy Food Database

Chia seeds

Used for thousands of years in Aztec and Mayan diets, there is even evidence of chia seeds being consumed as early as 3500 BC.

Chia seeds are tiny seeds packed with protein, fibre and short chain Omega 3 fatty acids. While the Omega 3 from chia seeds is not as powerful as the long chain Omega 3 from oily fish it's still better than none!

One tablespoon of chia seeds provides roughly 20 per cent of the RDI of fibre.

The chia plant itself grows about 1-2 metres tall and is amember of the mint family. Chia seeds have a pleasant nutty taste and can be added to food or drinks without altering the flavour.

Chia seeds are now widely available in black and white seeds. Store them in the fridge to avoid them becoming rancid.

Category: Cheese

In Season: all year

To Buy:

Look for chia seeds in health food stores.

To Store:

Store in the fridge once opened to retain Omega 3 content and prevent rancidity.

Tips & Tricks:

Try chia gel - combine 1 tbsp chia seeds with 1 cup water to form a nourishing gel that can be added to smoothies, yoghurt, salad dressings and sauces.

Cooking Tips:

Chiatah can be sprinkled over salads, cereals and muesli or incorporated into breads, muffins, slices, cookies or porridge.

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Nutrition per 1 Tablespoon:

Weight (grams):

15.0

Carbohydrates, g:

5.6

Protein (g):

3.1

Saturated Fat, g :

0.6

Omega 6 (g):

Iron, mg:

Salicylates:

No information available

Energy (kJ):

288

Fibre, g:

Fat (g):

5.0

Omega 3's (g):

Calcium:

Amines:

No information available

Glutamates:

n/a

Benefits the Following Health Conditions:*

Constipation

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* This information is sourced by a qualified naturopath. It is non prescriptive and not intended as a cure for the condition. Recommended intake is not provided. It is no substitute for the advice and treatment of a professional practitioner.

Disclaimer:
The Food Coach provides all content as is, without warranty. The Food Coach is not responsible for errors or omissions, or consequences of improper preparation, user allergies, or any other consequence of food preparation or consumption.