Optimum Health Institute Blog - Chia seeds are among the healthiest

To fully realize the benefits of a raw food diet , you should begin to explore some of the amazing qualities of seeds that are easily incorporated into all types of dishes. Seeds—whether consumed as such or in sprouted form—are packed with nutrients to sustain good health and keep you satisfied while you consume meals primarily consisting of fruits and vegetables. Chia seeds are among the healthiest seeds to supplement your raw food diet, and you should eat more of them if you are now being introduced to raw foods. Below are some details about chia seeds to help you see what you have been missing.

• Origins: In the ancient Americas, chia seeds were a critical component of Aztec and Mayan diets, because they were readily available and highly nutritious. These small seeds were ground into flour or pressed for their oils and used in everyday cooking before European contact with the American continents. After this time, chia seeds were not consumed nearly as much, but they have been recently revived as a super food because of their high nutrient content.

• Nutritional Value: Adding chia seeds to your diet will help you feel full much faster, because these tiny seeds absorb over 10 times their weight in water, making them a hearty additive during mealtime. While they fill you up, they will deliver a hefty amount of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and calcium.

• Taste and Uses: Chia seeds have a pleasing nutty flavor that lends itself well to both sweet and savory applications. They can be soaked in juice or water before eating, or they can simply be eaten raw. You might sprinkle them over your favorite raw dishes as an added bit of crunch and flavor, or you could grab a handful for a hearty and filling snack.

With Optimum Health Institute , you can fully realize the benefits of chia seeds and other components of a wholesome, raw diet by participating in our holistic healing programs. You can order chia seeds from the OHI Store by calling (888)-643-7867. The holistic healing program at Optimum Health Institute consists of three-week-long sessions that can be taken consecutively or independently. The sessions interlock classes and activities drawn from 24 ancient spiritual disciplines that promote healing of your body, mind, and spirit. Along with learning how to cleanse and nourish the body with diet, fasting, and exercise, guests learn how to quiet and focus the mind with journaling and meditation, plus renew and awaken their spirits with study, prayer, and celebration. To learn more about the OHI program, call (800) 993-4325 or visit www.optimumhealth.org.