Chia seeds are tiny but mighty seeds that were once believed to hold supernatural powers. And yes these are the same seeds that bring us those lovable plant pets from the 80’s. These bad boys were commonly used in Aztec rituals and ceremonies just like amaranth. They too were banned after the Spanish conquest for being affiliated with Aztec religion. It’s said that Aztec warriors consumed chia during long journeys because of its ability to increase stamina and energy over long periods of time.
As a superfood, chia seeds are powerhouses. They are loaded with fiber and protein including all eight essential amino acids that your body needs to break down that protein.
They contain no gluten and are considered “anti-allergenic” meaning that most people with allergies and other food intolerances will not usually have a problem eating chia. Being rich in alpha-linolenic acid, chia seeds are considered a brain food.