HealthyFoodForHealthyLiving

     High protein, low protein, no carbs, raw foods, low pH, restricted calorie, vegan, vegetarian? What is the absolutely best and most correct diet for perfect health? I think we all know there isn't just one diet that is right for everyone. Diets are cultural- , location- , financial- , bloodtype- , and even environmentally-based.  So instead of the "right" diet, lets think about which real, whole foods are "right" for most, if not all, people. Maybe the better question is what foods could be used within any diet? And at that point, the adorable little chia pets of the 70's curl up in our laps. Those chia pets held a secret of ancient people.

     The seed of the desert plant, Salvia hispanica , and a member of the mint family, is a tiny little seed with a big history. Between 1500 and 900 BC, chia was cultivated in central Mexico and grown into the 1700s. Authorities banned the use of chia seeds after the Spanish conquest because it was used in religious ceremonies as offerings. Pre-Columbian Aztecs and Mayans used chia seeds as a main part of their diet. Aztecs used the seed to stimulate the flow of saliva and to relieve joint pain. Aztec warriors survived on rations of chia seed - it was light, easy to carry in small pouches, and provided them energy and endurance. Indians who lived in what is now southwestern United States would chew on chia seeds during forced marches or on trade missions, running from the Colorado River to the west coast. These seeds were valuable enough to be used as trade currency and potent enough to prevent infections and stimulate healing when used as a poultice for gunshot wounds & injuries. Now whether the stories of 1 tablespoon sustaining a man for 24 hours are true or not, it is clear that the chia seed has some important nutritional properties.

     Over the next few days, I'll be telling you about the nutritional value of this seed, some amazing ways to use chia seeds in your diet, and some wonderful recipes. But for now, in honor of those ancient Aztecs and Mayans, why don't you try a 'chia fresca'. Stir 1-2 tsp chia seeds into a glass of water. After 10-15 minutes, the water will have a gel consistency. Add lemon or lime juice or any fruit juice of your choice, sweeten to taste -- and add ice. It is SO good - and good for you.

Sources:  Prevention, Dr. Weil, The Magic Of Chia by James Scheer

Next: Nutritional Information on the Chia Seed