Chia
Chia seeds are the fruits of the chia plant and served the Maya civilization as a versatile, supportive staple food. Cultivation takes place in Central and South America, and now also in Southeast Asia and Australia. The seeds, whose name literally translates as “strong”, are oval and about one to two millimetres in size.
As small as they are, the seeds are equally rich in nutrients. They provide high levels of essential amino acids and polyunsaturated omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Chia seeds care for the gut mucosa through mucilage that forms on contact with water. They also supply the body with vitamins, minerals and secondary, antioxidant plant compounds. Such plant compounds can capture free radicals in the body, thereby supporting the cells in protecting against damage.