Chia Seed

Chia seed is originated from a plant that grows natively in South American. This plant is related to mint but there isn’t any minty aroma every time I opened a jar of Chia seed. Chia Seed is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids lower blood fats to help reduce risk for heart attack, boost the effectiveness of anti-inflammatory drugs for joint pain and stiffness, improve lung function and cut the amount of medication for asthmatic sufferers. It is also a good source of B vitamins (Thiamine, Niacin, and Riboflavin) and dietary minerals (Calcium, Iron, and Magnesium). Chia seed contains fiber and able to absorb up to 10-12 times their weight by forming a gel-like substance surrounding the seed. This increases fullness in stomach and help in weight management too.
Chia seed is dried before presented to consumers in supermarkets or food stores. It costs around SGD$30 for 500 gram of Chia seed (Black or white seed, both contain same amount of omega-3, protein, fiber and other nutrients). It can be consumed raw which means straight from the jar right onto your food, hassle-free! It is an awesome choice to be used as a topping over fruits jam or mix into fruit juices, smoothies, coconut water or add into bread, cakes or muffin mixture before put into oven.
Try adding 3 tablespoons of Chia seed into 1 liter of coconut water and you will have “ballooned” coconut-flavored Chia seed after an hour or two.
 
Louise (200h Weekend YTT July 2015)