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Introduction
*Salba, also called chia seed, is a seed related to the mint family, a variety of chia plant, Salvia hispanica L.
*They have a mildly nutty or neutral flavor.
*Salba can be consumed raw by just sprinkling on the cereal, salads, blending in a smoothie, or adding to cookies, cakes or bread before baking.
*Suggested serving is 2 tablespoons per day.
Is it raw?
Yes and No.
*Yes, if picked fresh or if it says raw or sundried on the package.
*No, because sometimes salba seeds at the supermarkets may be roasted. Make sure you read the label.
Health Benefits
1. Salba has a good amount of mono and polyunsaturated fats and hence are good for the heart.
2. They have a healthy balance of essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
3. Good source of gluten free plant protein.
4. Very rich source of soluble dietary fiber, which provides roughage, and relieves constipation.
5. Salba lowers the absorption of cholesterol from the intestine and reduces the LDL cholesterol in blood.
6. It maintains and stabilizes glucose levels in the blood.
7. They have a high content of antioxidants like chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, flavonol glycosides, which reduce and delay the oxidation of fats in the body and prevents cell damage, thus reducing the risk of various types of cancers.
8. Very good source of minerals like calcium, phosphorus, manganese, and moderate amount of zinc that help regulate the metabolic activities.
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