Chia seeds are an unprocessed, whole-grain food that can be absorbed by the body as seeds. One ounce (about 2 tablespoons) contains 139 calories, 4 grams of protein, 9 grams fat, 12 grams carbohydrates and 11 grams of fiber, plus vitamins and minerals.

Chia is an edible seed that comes from the desert plant Salvia hispanica, grown in Mexico. They originate back to Mayan and Aztec cultures. They prized them for their ability to provide sustainable energy. "Chia" is the ancient Mayan word for "strength."

Three reasons why Chia seeds are a Super Food:

• Chia seeds are loaded with antioxidants.
• They are loaded with fiber, they are actually 40% fiber.
• High in quality protein, they are about 14% protein, which is very high compared to most plants.
• Due to the high fiber and protein, they aid in weight loss.
• High in Omega 3 Fatty Acids.
• Chia seeds contain more Omega-3s than salmon, gram for gram.
• High in important bone nutrients. This includes calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and protein.
• Can improve exercise performance as much as a sports drink. According studies, chia seeds can help athletes "carb load" for endurance events, while increasing their intake of nutrients and decreasing their intake of sugar.