Chia seed can be added to a variety of foods including salads , soups, baking, smoothies or on sandwiches.

Advice from Matakana superfoods staff who have released the product in 250gm bags throughout NZ is

- try a table spoon full in half a cup of yogurt with a few blueberries thrown in (yum) If you are worried you are low on nutrients or energy

- this is the whole food remedy which will give you the ultimate power start to your day. Chia (Salvia hispanica)

- 10 Health Benefits of This Superfood

1. Supports Heart Health Chia seeds can help reduce blood pressure. The seeds contain one of the highest known plant sources of essential fatty acids (omega-3 and omega-6). EFAs cannot be synthesized by our bodies however, it is very important that we get enough to support our immune, cardiovascular, nervous and reproductive systems. EFA deficiency is quite common in the developed world

2. Stabilizes Blood Sugar Chia seeds slow down the rate at which complex carbohydrates are digested and then assimilated into the body. The soluble fiber helps to stabilize blood glucose levels resulting in steady, sustained energy. In one study on diabetic patients, Dr. Vladamir Vuksan of St. Michael's Hospital in Toronto found that blood was thinner and less prone to clotting and that the blood pressure of participants dropped significantly, after three months of taking Chia seeds daily.

3. Energizing The word "Chia" comes from the Mayan language and means strength. Chia seeds are a balanced blend of protein, carbohydrates, fats and fiber. It is said that 1 tablespoon of Chia can sustain a person for 24 hours. Athletes, including cyclists and the famous barefoot Olympic marathon runners of Mexico, have reported that Chia seeds help them perform at optimal levels for much longer periods of time.

4. Anti-Inflammatory Properties Reports of reduced pain and inflammation after taking Chia seeds may be attributed to the high concentration of Omega-3 and Omega-6 which are natural anti-inflammatories for the circulatory and musculo-skeletal systems. Additionally these Omegas are converted into prostaglandins which are known to have both pain relieving and anti-inflammatory effects.

5. Weight Loss The essential fatty acids contained in Chia seeds help to boost metabolism and promote lean muscle mass. The seeds are sometimes added to food to provide bulk and nutrients while adding very few calories. For these reasons, many people have found Chia quite useful in weight loss and weight maintenance.

6. Detoxification and Elimination Similar to psyllium, the swelling action of Chia in the body helps to cleanse and soothe the colon, and absorb toxins while lubricating and strengthening peristaltic action.

7. High Quality Protein Chia seeds contain about 20% protein, a higher percentage than found in many other grains such as wheat and rice. Chia seeds contain strontium which helps to assimilate protein and produce high energy.

8. Antioxidants Chia seeds are an excellent source of antioxidants, containing even more antioxidants than fresh blueberries. The high amounts of antioxidants in Chia seeds also keeps the omega-3 oils from going rancid - contributing to a long shelf life.

9. Provides Fiber and Other Nutrients Besides EFAs, Chia seeds also provide fiber, iron, calcium, niacin, magnesium, zinc and phosphorus. 2 tablespoons of Chia = 7 grams of fiber, 2 grams of protein, 205 milligrams of calcium, 5 grams omega-3.

10. Brain Power EFAs are known to make cell membranes more flexible and efficient, making nutrients more readily available and nerve transmission more efficient. This helps to improve brain function (including memory and concentration).