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History of Chia seeds 

There is scientific evidence showing that the CHIA seed (Salvia hispanica L.) began to be used in human food, some 3,500 years before Christ and became a staple crop in central Mexico between 1500 and 900 BC .

There is scientific evidence showing that the CHIA seed (Salvia hispanica L.) began to be used in human food, some 3,500 years before Christ and became a staple crop in central Mexico between 1500 and 900 BC . Chia seed was used as food by the natives of western and southern Mexico. The Aztecs ate it because of its energy supply. They ate only the equivalent of a tablespoon to withstand a 14-hour journey.



In pre-Columbian times, the CHIA was one of the staple foods of Central American civilizations (Aztecs and Mayans) after corn and beans. Tenochtitlan, the capital of the Aztec Empire received between 5,000 and 15,000 tons per year as tribute from conquered peoples. Chia seed was used not only as food but also as offerings to the Aztec gods.



Due to religious use and perhaps for its inability to adapt to European climatic conditions, the Chia was subjected to five hundred years of darkness. The Chia survived only in small patches in steep mountainous areas of southern Mexico, until a research and development program that reactivated it in 1991.



However, Chia seed today offers the world a new opportunity to improve human nutrition, providing a natural source of omega 3 fatty acids, antioxidants and dietary fiber. 



The Mayans and Aztecs used chia in different nutritional and medicinal preparations, as well as in the development of cosmetic ointments. It was a power source for extended cruises and food for the warriors, combined with corn. Roasted chia flour was used in the preparation of a refreshing, nourishing beverage popular custom that, with variations, persists today in Central America and is called "chia fresca" (water, lemon and chia). The potters and painters chia oil used for the preparation of varnishes and paints, which were noted for their brilliance and resistance to aging due to its high antioxidant power.

"... chia seed offers today to the world a new opportunity to improve human nutrition, providing a natural source of omega 3 fatty acids, antioxidants and dietary fiber."

Chia Seeds are just awesome!
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