Thursday 20 March 2014

What's so super about chia?

What's so super about chia? - Telegraph:
Chia seeds are not new – this plant in the mint family (Salvia hispanica) was grown as a crop by the Aztecs. The difference is that the Aztecs never put them in a plastic pouch with the word 'antioxidants' on the front, retail price £19.29 per kilo. After spirulina, acai, goji berries, matcha and wheatgrass, chia seeds are the latest 'superfood' to arrive in Britain.
As for ways to eat them, the possibilities are endless – according to The Chia Co, anyway. They send me some recipes as eaten by 'Miranda Kerr, the Spielbergs and Gwyneth Paltrow': chia-crusted salmon, chia chicken burgers. I start more simply, mixing my recommended 15g daily portion into a bowl of porridge. It tastes gritty, but pleasant enough. Chia yogurt was less successful: the seeds sit on the surface like grey sand.
One thing is becoming clear: no one would eat chia for taste alone. The health benefits therefore should be spectacular to justify the price: around 48p for 15g (for a 150g pack), or more if you buy the 'super handy chia shots' to enjoy 'anywhere, any time'.

People use chia seed for diabetes, high blood pressure, and for generally reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke (cardiovascular disease).
How does it work?
Chia seeds contain a large amount of healthy omega-3 fatty acids and dietary fiber. Researchers think omega-3 fatty acids and fiber help reduce risk factors for heart disease.
Side Effects
Chia seems to be safe when taken for up to 12 weeks. Not enough is known about the safety of using it for a longer period of time.
Special Precautions & Warnings:
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not enough is known about the use of chia during pregnancy and breast-feeding.
Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

High triglycerides: Blood contains several types of fat, including cholesterol and triglycerides. Triglyceride levels are too high in some people. Eating some types of chia can make them even higher. If you have high triglycerides, stick with using a specific variety of chia called Salba. Salba does not significantly increase triglyceride levels.

Prostate cancer: Chia contains a lot of alpha-linolenic acid. Some research suggests that large amounts of alpha-linolenic acid in the diet might increase the chance of getting prostatecancer. If you have prostate cancer or have a high risk of getting it, avoid eating large amounts of chia.
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