Chia Power
How many times have you seen commercials for the widely marketed Chia Pet? Chia is often considered a super seed as it’s rich in essential fatty acids. Currently chai has the highest concentration of Omega 3’s amongst all plant based sources. Ironically the Omega 3 levels of chia are close to three times higher than flaxseed oil.
Going back 3000 years ago to Central America, the Aztecs considered chai to be one of their four main foods. According to the Mayans, the word chai means strength. Unfortunatel, over the last few century’s chai was almost taken to extinction due to cultural and religious concerns. In the 1990’s the plant made a strong comeback and became readily available for food, seed oil and other applications.
According to Wes Crain Vice President of Navitas Natural, “Unlike chai seed, flax is more susceptible to rancidity and it does not breakdown easily in the digestive tract.” “Chia absorbs water and can help aid in hydrating the body.” Chai also helps slow the body from converting carbohydrate calories into simple sugars, which is a good future for diabetics.”
Chai is also naturally high in dietary fiber, antioxidants, calcium, protein, amino acids, as well as vitamins and minerals.