National Chia Day

Lyn Russell, RYT-500, RCYT, B.Ed., Dip.T., ACOA Dip. (M.Nat.Th) • Mar 22, 2021
National Chia Day

This day recognises the tiny, yet powerful chia seed that has earned its reputation as being one of the MOST nutrient-rich foods on the planet!


Chia seeds come from the plant Salvia hispanica L., and were at one time a major food crop in Mexico and Guatemala. Cultivated as a food source as early as 3500 BC, it was offered to Aztec gods in religious ceremonies.

Nowadays, chia seeds are used as a functional ingredient, added to less nutritious items like baked pastries and snacks, to improve their appeal to health-conscious consumers. Health claims about chia seeds include reducing appetite and weight, lowering triglycerides, and improving blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes.


Chia seeds are rich in:


  • Polyunsaturated fat, as omega-3 fatty acids
  • Fibre
  • Protein
  • Calcium
  • Phosphorus
  • Zinc



Two tablespoons of chia seeds (28 grams) contain about 140 calories, 4 grams of protein, 11 grams of fibre, 7 grams of unsaturated fat, 18% RDA for calcium, and trace minerals including zinc and copper. They are the richest plant source of omega-3 fatty acids. Chia seeds are a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids that cannot be made by the body. You can see why they have quickly become a health food staple.


7 Chia Seeds benefits
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