Steven Petrov
The Paw Print
The etymology of the word “Chia” comes from the language of the ancient Mayan civilization meaning “strength” and is most often consumed in the form of seeds, which can be mixed with almost any kind of food, water, juice etc. This food was used by some of the most ancient civilizations and cultures in the world as a superb energy supplier. The Mayan ambassadors and reporters used to always carry a bag full of chia seeds with them during long and tiresome trips, so that they could replenish their bodies with fresh energy and help them recover much quicker, performing larger quantities of physical work. Tracing the usage of this food back in time, we can find that ancient people saw visible results and improvements in people’s endurance and overall strength while using the chia seeds. People in Mexico say that 1 spoon of chia seeds is more than enough to fill you up with energy for 24 hours. Even though people in the past were not able to explain why these seeds are so special or what makes them different, Mayans kept on using them and kept on seeing improvements in their overall physical condition.
However, today we are able to dissect these seeds under the microscope and put them under a series of laboratory tests in order to find the secret behind their outstanding effects on the human body. The secret is in the fact that chia seeds are extremely hygroscopic. What that means is that once the seeds have soaked in water they hold it for a really long time, meaning that they prolong the hydration of the organism and protect and keep the electrolytes within our bodies. Not being well hydrated is one of the most common causes of fatigue and loss of energy. This really special characteristic of this ancient “super-food” makes it extremely helpful for people who are used to putting their bodies under regular and highly intensive training programs. Athletes are not the only people who can take advantage of the benefits that chia seeds have for us, but it is also an incredibly helpful food to those who are trying to lose weight and stay in shape. The seeds leave the feeling of being “full” after consuming them and bring down a person’s appetite.
Here is some statistical information regarding the nutritional value of the food:
*2 times more proteins than any other culture
*5 times more calcium than milk
*2 times more potassium than bananas
*3 times more anti-oxidants than blackcurrant
*3 times more iron than spinach
What’s Been Said…