Chia seeds, the latest superfood!

And if you were wondering what superfood could make you live longer and healthier, here comes the good news!  Chia seeds are fast making comeback as the latest superfood, according to a recent report appeared in New York Times. Chia seeds were a staple of the pre-Columbian Mayan and Aztec diets.

Chia seeds are loaded with omega-3′s, antioxidants, fiber, calcium, protein and a number of other vitamins and minerals. This nutrient-dense food are said to be able to aid with weight loss, control blood sugar and reduce the risk of heart disease, though none of these claims have been backed up by scientific evidence.

According to Christopher McDougall, the author of “Born to Run,” the seeds’ ability to boost stamina and energy is high, Ancient Aztecs chomped on the seeds as they made their conquests and the Tarahumara Indians today use the seeds to fuel long-distance runs barefoot.

Bloomberg Businessweek says that among Wall Street’s trading desks and bullpens, chia seeds are becoming the stimulant of choice — healthier than coffee, cheaper (and obviously more legal) than cocaine, and less juvenile than a 5-hour energy drink.

Experts say that since the trend has set in, the craze will ensue. “Fellow blogger Jan Cho says, “Whole and ground chia seeds are being added to smoothies, puddings, soups, cereals and a variety of baked goods. It was only a matter of time before they were co-opted by the food industry.”

The seeds have entered the broader market and can now be found in many mainstream grocery stores. Demand for chia products has grown fivefold this past year, says a trader.

Cho writes: In short, “superfoods” are a marketing conceit. Choosing what to eat for health entails simply choosing food that’s real and whole. In fact, I can’t think of any real food that couldn’t also be or hasn’t already been touted as a superfood — whether it’s broccoli or apples or salmon or spinach or walnuts or beans or tofu. Today it just happens to be chia seeds. They’re new, they’re exotic, they have a good back story and they’re extremely versatile. They’re a marketer’s dream.”