Ch-Ch-Ch-CHIA

A few days ago I caught myself watching Dr. Oz. (Even though I find his show to be a bit annoying). But that is beside the point. This particular episode was about the benefits of Chia: Ancients Super-Seed Secret. I only caught the end of the show, so I did a little research before writing this post to really uncover the benefits of consuming chia seeds and why I (as a nutrition major) had never heard of such a thing. I started off by checking The Dr. Oz Show website to see what research he gathered about chia seeds. But first and for most, (I know you are wondering) the chia seed was consumed well before the Ch-ch-ch-chia Pet was born. Bummer, I know! The website reveals this:

•  Chia seeds were a staple food, like corn and beans, in the diets of the Aztecs and Mayans. Chia actually got its name from the Mayan word for “strength.”

•   Most evidence shows that humans began using chia seeds around 3500 BC. Aztecs and Mayans consumed chia seeds regularly, grinding them into flour, pressing them for oil and drinking them mixed with water.

• At this time in history, chia seeds were considered to be almost magical because of their ability to increase stamina and energy over long periods of time.

• The nutritional benefits of chia include fiber, omega fatty acids, calcium, antioxidants and much more – even protein!

With all of this positive information about chia seeds, are you considering trying these little guys? OR, will you just go out and buy a Ch-ch-ch-chia Pet?