March 19, 2024

The Mighty & Mysterious Chia Seed

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The Mighty & Mysterious Chia Seed

Tiny but mighty, Chia seeds have been packing a powerful punch for thousands of years! These unassuming little seeds were superstars in the ancient Mesoamerican civilizations. In fact, the word “chia” stems from the Mayan word for “strength.” (1) How fitting for a teeny seed that was considered nearly magical for providing stamina and endurance.

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A Glimpse of the Origins of Chia Seeds

The Aztecs and Mayans weren’t messing around when it came to Chia. These cultures believed Chia held mystical powers of strength, energy, and fertility. (2) Warriors would load up on the seeds for an extra boost before long journeys. Ancient rituals centered around Chia as offerings to the gods. There’s no doubt these ancient people tapped into the profound nutritional potency of Chia!


The Multifaceted Marvel of Ancient Chia

Can you imagine fueling up on  Chia before an epic battle or ceremony? That’s just how revered and nutritious these seeds were back in the day. Chia played several vital roles in the diets and cultures of ancient civilizations like the Aztecs. (3) How?

As a staple food source

Chia seeds were indeed a dietary dynamo. These tiny nutritional powerhouses provided vital nutrients and energy that sustained the Aztec people.Packed with fiber, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron, chia seeds were a comprehensive food source for the Aztecs.(3) Chia could be ground into a flour, which allowed for easy storage and transport even on the longest of journeys. The versatile seeds were also frequently mixed directly into other Aztec foods and beverages, enhancing dishes with an extra nutrient-dense boost.

In religious rituals and offerings

But  Chia was more than just food to the ancient Aztecs – it was a revered spiritual force! Chia played a sacred role in religious rituals and ceremonies central to Aztec culture. The mystical seeds, believed to bestow strength and fertility, were cherished offerings presented to Aztec gods and deities.

For medicinal purposes

These pre-Columbian cultures got extra clever with mighty Chia seeds as well. Not only were they nutritious, but the seeds served as raw materials in traditional natural remedies too! Rich in antioxidants like chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, myricetin, quercetin, and kaempferol, as well as containing essential omega-3 fatty acids, chia seeds have powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that made them a prized ingredient in various ancient health tonics and treatments.(5)

As an energy source

With their protein, fiber and healthy fats, it’s no wonder Chia was the go-to energy source for the Aztecs and other pre-Columbian cultures.The portable seeds fueled mighty warriors and travelers, providing sustained energy during long treks, military campaigns, and other strenuous activities.  It seems Chia’s vigor-boosting powers had helped drive ancient people to blaze new trails and push the limits of human potential!

The humble Chia seed has traveled an amazing journey, from being revered by ancient civilizations for its life-giving properties to gracing modern superfood status today. With each sprinkle of  Chia, we partake in centuries of nourishing wisdom and cultural tradition. By rediscovering the enigmatic origins of Chia, we gain a deeper appreciation for the modern-day superpowers that this tiny but mighty seed still possesses. Next time you add Chia seeds to your favorite smoothie, bowl or meal, keep in mind its ancient history, and see if you can channel the Chia’s centuries long wisdom and power.

The Modern Benefits to Chia Seeds

Modern research suggests chia seeds might be more than just delicious sprinkles. These tiny wonders, once cherished by the Aztecs, are making a big comeback in the modern wellness world. Packed with potential benefits, chia seeds may support digestive health, help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels, aid in weight management, and even help combat inflammation. (4) But that’s not all – these little seeds might also be your ally in the fight against diabetes and could even give your mental well-being a boost, noted in some studies to help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. (4) So, why not add a sprinkle of chia magic to your meals and see what all the fuss is about?


Non-Dietary Keys to a Healthy-looking Skin

When it comes to achieving healthy, radiant skin, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. However, by incorporating a few key habits into your daily routine, you can help your skin look its best. 

1. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps to flush out toxins, plump up your skin cells, and keep your skin looking fresh and dewy.

2. Get your beauty sleep! Aim for 7-9 hours of quality shut-eye each night to allow your skin to repair and regenerate itself, leaving you with a well-rested, glowing complexion.

3. A consistent skincare routine is a great way to show your skin some love. Cleanse, moisturize, and protect your skin daily to keep it looking its best. Don’t forget the mineral based sunscreen!

4. Manage stress through relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga. Try and keep things in perspective as well as remembering what you are grateful for to help you de-stress. When you’re less stressed, your skin looks more radiant and youthful.



Superfood Toppings that Help Skin Stay Healthy and Vibrant

At Clean Juice, we’ve got dozens of menu options to choose from that include the 5 foods listed at the start of today’s newsletter including our guest favorite The Avocado Toast, The Loaded Avocado Toast, The Protein Toast, several of our sandwiches and wraps that have tomatoes, and dozens of fresh juices and smoothies that contain berries or leafy greens. But what about some of the superfoods add-ons we have available–which of these are the best for helping your skin stay healthy and vibrant?

Goji Berries: Unleash the power of goji berries for a radiant complexion. These tiny, nutrient-packed fruits are renowned for their high levels of antioxidants and Vitamin C, which aid in the fight against aging by protecting the skin from oxidative stress. Incorporating goji berries into your diet can help promote collagen production, ensuring your skin remains firm and youthful. A sweet, tangy addition to any salad or acai bowl, goji berries are your skin’s best friend for warding off the signs of aging.

Chia Seeds: Hydrate and heal your skin with chia seeds, the superfood that packs a massive nutritional punch. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, chia seeds help provide deep moisturization for your skin from the inside out. The antioxidants found in chia seeds also help combat inflammation and promote smoother, more resilient skin. Add a sprinkle of chia seeds to your smoothie or acai bowl for a daily boost of skin hydration and protection.

Hemp Seeds: Elevate your skin health with hemp seeds. These small but mighty seeds are loaded with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, contributing to stronger, more supple skin. Hemp seeds also contain gamma-linolenic acid, a powerful anti-inflammatory that helps with skin growth and new cell generation, reducing acne and keeping your skin smooth. Power up your smoothie or acai bowl with hemp seeds for some extra skincare love.

Walnuts: Unlock age-defying beauty with walnuts. These crunchy nuts are not only tasty but are also rich in anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids, which help protect your skin against UV damage, reduce skin inflammation, and promote a smoother, more even complexion. Walnuts are also a good source of antioxidants and zinc, critical for repairing skin damage and keeping the skin’s barrier strong, and they make for a great addition to a salad or acai bowl.

Coconut Chips: A guest favorite add-on to many of our acai bowls, coconut chips are abundant in medium-chain fatty acids and lauric acid, known for their antimicrobial properties, which can help in reducing acne and infections. The hydrating properties of coconuts keep your skin moist and soft.

Maca: Invigorate your skin with maca, a root known for its unique nutritional profile. Maca is rich in vitamins and minerals that support skin clarity, including Vitamin C, zinc, and iron. These nutrients help reduce skin inflammation, promote healing, and maintain the skin’s elasticity. Adding maca to your fresh juice or smoothie can lead to a more vibrant, youthful complexion and an overall boost in skin health.

Turmeric: Brighten your skin naturally with turmeric. This golden spice is celebrated for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, thanks to curcumin, its active compound. Turmeric can help lighten hyperpigmentation, reduce redness, and fight signs of aging, promoting a smooth, even skin tone. Incorporate turmeric into your next fresh juice for a powerful, natural way to enhance your skin’s health and appearance.

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Disclaimer: The information presented here is for educational purposes only and is in no way intended as a substitute for medical counseling. Consult your doctor before using any health treatment, including natural remedies, and tell your doctor if you have a serious medical condition or are taking any medications.

If you’re unsure whether physical activity would be a healthy addition to your wellness routine, ask your doctor if any of your health details might make physical activity unsafe for you.

 

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