Chia seed: origin and benefits

Origin of the chia seed

Oval in shape and grey in colour, the Chia seed is an edible seed originating from Mexico that can absorb up to 12 times its weight in liquid, giving a gelled texture to chia-based drinks.

The word chia comes from the Mayans and means 'to strengthen'. Considered by the Aztecs as a superfood that provided strength, vitality and endurance, they made it one of the staple foods of their culture and were already consuming it more than 5,000 years ago.

The benefits of chia seeds

1. Chia seeds are a natural appetite suppressant

Rich in fibre and protein, the chia seed has a true satiating power when rehydrated. This effect comes from its richness in mucilages, a plant substance that allows the seed to significantly increase its volume on contact with a liquid to finally form a gelled texture. Add some to your morning drink or afternoon yoghurt and benefit from their appetite-suppressing effect!

2. Chia seeds, a source of energy and endurance

Chia seeds enable your body to correctly assimilate its high protein content. They thus provide you with a great source of energy and endurance. This is why many athletes, vegetarians and vegans consume these seeds daily.

3. Chia seeds for beautiful skin and hair

Chia seeds contain proteins that repair tissues and allow the skin to regenerate. These seeds are also rich in antioxidants. These offer you two advantages: they neutralise free radicals and thus slow down cell ageing, and they stimulate hair growth, making it thicker, stronger and shinier.

4. Chia seeds help you sleep better

Chia seeds possess an amino acid, tryptophan, which produces serotonin and melatonin, two hormones that regulate mood, help to relax and thus combat insomnia and sleep better.

5. Chia seeds facilitate transit

As we have seen, chia seeds are rich in fibre. These contribute to good digestion while reducing stomach acidity. The mucilages they contain also help regulate intestinal transit, while promoting good cleansing of the intestines, thus increasing stool weight.

6. Chia seeds and the brain

Thanks to the omega-3s they contain, chia seeds encourage the proper functioning of the brain by protecting its arteries and enabling better communication between cells. Better concentration and improved cognitive abilities are the promises of chia seeds.

Our recipes with chia seeds

• Detox water with Chia seeds and fruit
• Chia Fresca