Chia seeds
Is it really better to grind or soak the chia seeds, or can you just eat them raw?
All species of Chia are from the Mint (Lamiaceae or Labiatae) family, this includes both the black and white species. People use the Chia Seeds to help lower high blood pressure, increase High Density Lipoproteins (good cholesterol), prevention and reversal of insulin resistance and lowering of serum Triglycerides levels.
This herb was a staple in the ancient Aztec diet and typically contains Omega 3,6 and 9 essential fatty acids (34% oil), anti-oxidants, protein (20%) and fibre (25%) content and for this reason many call it a complete food.
By grinding or soaking the seeds first it helps to break down the rough fibre and this makes it easier on the digestive tract and therefore the beneficial effects are improved. Some companies recommend that a blend of Black and White Chia is the best option as a variety of foods and colours is a good overall way to improve health, and by combining both you will receive the benefits of both of these super foods.
You may even like to add the soaked or ground seeds to foods such as smoothies, cereal, yoghurt or sprinkled on top of a fruit salad.