Known as the staple food, the use of chia seeds as a high-energy endurance food has been recorded since the ancient Aztecs. Aztec warriors were said to have survived in Chia during their battles. They outperformed their Inca counterpart by surviving by consuming mainly chia seeds. They are very profitable for the recessionary climate of this world. An ounce a day is all most people need, especially when you consider that they expand up to 9 times their size when in contact with food or drink.

9 Healthy Reasons People Use Chia Seeds

9. 1 ounce uses 2.8% of the calories in a 2000 calorie diet. Full daily servings only add 1 up to 139 calories.

8. They are high in calcium and naturally contain boron, which transfers calcium to the bones.

7. They fill you up when in contact with liquids and slow the absorption of carbohydrates to control appetite.

6. They are gluten-free and great for a raw food diet because they are high in protein, calcium, omega 3 and 6, and do not need to be cooked. Unlike flaxseeds, you don’t have to grind them up when you make a smoothie.

5. They are great for exercising. Before a race or sporting event where you need to hydrate, take a scoop or 2 in an 8-ounce bottle of water to help hydrate. They will also help with protein to make the event cramp free. Also, it is good for the digestive system because it is a hydrophilic colloid.

4. They are high in Omega 3: 1 oz has 4915 mg of Omega 3. Omega 3 fatty acids are loaded with protein, which is great for healthy skin, hair and nails.

3. They are good for diabetics: High fiber diets can help control diabetes. It is more difficult to lose weight being diabetic. Seeds supply fiber in 2 forms: insoluble (does not dissolve in water) from their outer layer and soluble fiber (dissolves in water) from their inner layer. Soluble fiber has been found to be helpful in lowering cholesterol and diabetes. 1 ounce has a glycemic index of 1.

2. Known to help with thyroid – They help with hydration and are known to help deal with symptoms of thyroid medications such as low energy, dry skin and hair, thyroid weight and colon problems.

1. They are good for lowering cholesterol – The seeds provide fiber in 2 forms: insoluble (does not dissolve in water) from its outer layer and soluble fiber (dissolves in water) from its inner layer. Soluble fiber has been found to be helpful in lowering cholesterol and diabetes. Omega 3 and 6 have also been shown to help.

For high-quality seeds, look for providers that display clear images on their websites. They usually have a price similar to that of flax seeds. They can be taken dry with water or mixed with food. Go here for more information on pricing, packaging, and recipes.