What exactly are the chia seeds?
Chia is a herbaceous plant from southern Mexico and northern Guatemala, belonging to the same family as mint and lavender. We know that his domestication began about 6,000 years ago. Unlike today, for pre -Columbian crops, the Chia was not only a food supplement – it was one of the most important foods.
From the Meso-America to the world
According to dictionaries, the word “chía” comes from Nahuatl and means “seed from which the oil is extracted”. It is believed that it derives from the word Maya “chiháan”, which means “strong” or “strengthening”, because of its powerful properties.
It is believed that Chia ranked third among cultures, exceeded only by but And beans. In Tenochtitlán, the pre -Columbian version of Mexico City, between 5,000 and 15,000 tonnes of Chia, was received in tribute from conquered peoples. Chia has even been used as a currency in tributes and commercial transactions.
Beyond being a staple food, the Chia has been used in various ways. It was ground in flour to prepare different dishes and was also used to make a drink called cannapinolliWho mixed the chia powder with water. The seeds were also offered to the gods – replanted as a sacred act to bless future harvests – and chia oil was extracted for use in body paint and pottery decorations.
Chia Flour had an incredibly long conservation time, making it an ideal source of food during droughts and long expeditions. It was said that a person supported by a small pocket of ground chia could run from the Colorado river to the peaceful ocean – or drive out the prey until it collapses from exhaustion. I find it difficult to believe, but maybe some of our marathonian friends can try it and tell us if they feel more energized!
A treasure rediscovered
During the colonial era, the Chia almost disappeared because its culture was associated with indigenous “pagan” rituals, and the Spaniards replaced it with other cereals. However, some distant communities have continued to grow it, which allows it to survive to date – although without the same meaning that it once owned in pre -Columbian cultures.
Today, the world’s largest consumer in Chia is the United States. The interest in Chia increased in the 1990s when natural food brands began to market it for its weight loss advantages. But as a person who drinks lemon water with the Chia since childhood, I can say with confidence – without any evidence, but also without a doubt – that I have not lost a single gram because of the Chia.
That said, it is one of the most complete nutritional foods you can eat. For 100 grams, Chia seeds contain:
• 21 grams of high quality protein
• 24 grams of unsaturated fatty acids (omega-3)
• 34 grams of fiber (121% of the recommended daily intake!)
• High levels of calcium (606 mg) and magnesium (306 mg)
• Five times more potassium than a banana-perhaps explaining why it was popular among Meso-American runners.
Benefits
Recent studies confirm that Chia is an excellent ally for cardiovascular health and reduction in inflammation. It promotes good digestion and contributes to an unprecedented intestinal health experience. Due to its high fiber content, it helps maintain a feeling of fullness longer and improves the efficiency of hydration.
Above all, native knowledge was correct – Chia is one of the best foods for athletes because it facilitates muscle repair and growth.
Warnings
The chia absorbs its weight in the water 10 times, so my recommendation is to soak it first in any liquid – water, milk or juice. Like most Mexicans, you can drink it in the water with chia. You can also add it to smoothies and juices. Those who have a sweet tooth can also try Chía Jam!
You can eat it raw by sprinkling it on salads or fruit, but be sure not to do too much – remember, it absorbs the liquid! Speaking from experience, it can be quite uncomfortable when these little seeds develop in you.
You can also make chia flour. Just mix it or transform it into a thin powder and use it as a panache or cooking breads and cakes.
The possibilities with Chia are endless – do not go too far, like some young women I saw on social networks who found themselves in a hospital bed with a “baby chia” in their stomach.
If you are a high performance athlete, have you incorporated Chia into your diet? How did he take advantage of you? Let us know!
María Meléndez is a food blogger from Mexico City and an influencer.
