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Chia Seeds (Salvia hispanica L) Wild Plant Rich in Nutrients



Author(s)

Virginia Melo-Ruíz, Beatriz Schettino-Bermúdez, Jesús Rodríguez-Diego, Rafael Díaz-García, Concepción Calvo-Carrillo and CésarGazga-Urioste

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DOI:10.17265/1934-7391/2016.05.001

Chia seeds played an important role in different ethnic group’s diet at pre-Hispanic times. Later, it was domesticated due to high demand by the population and nowadays it’s cultivated in several states of Mexico. However, seeds are not part of the Mexican average diet. The aim of this research was to asses Chia seed’s macronutrients and promote consumption among population to decrease malnutrition. Chia seeds were collected at Puebla State (2015) and analyzed according to AOAC [1] methods. Data obtained (g/100 g dry basis) were: proteins 18.51%; lipids 31.33%; minerals 4.45%; fiber 24.45%; soluble carbohydrates 21.38%. Chia seeds absorb water about ten times its weight, is gluten free and contain a good amount of proteins, indispensable for human life. In addition, Chia seeds have a balanced amount of polyunsaturated essential lipids, which are important for brain function, minerals, fiber and soluble carbohydrates. Chia seeds are available all year and are well accepted by all social groups, therefore it could be a good option to improve human health.

Chia seeds, nutraceutic benefits, nutritional plant.