We’re used to talking about eating chia as seeds in delicious puddings or smoothies. Still, it is also becoming a fast favourite with microgreen growers because chia microgreens are rich in protein, antioxidants and ALA omega-3 fatty acids.
Studies have proven that Omega-3 improves brain function, such as memory and managing depression. Just 30g of chia seeds is said to contain 5,000 mg of ALA omega-3 fatty acids or 312–454% of the recommended daily intake, which is a higher concentration than salmon or flaxseeds.
They also have a higher concentration of fibre than other greens. This makes them an excellent option for people looking to reduce inflammation or lower their cholesterol levels.
In addition to these benefits, chia microgreens contain calcium and iron, making them a great source to strengthen teeth, bones, and heart health.
The iron found within the Chlorophyll in Chia microgreens, which you can learn more about here, is a highly efficient blood cleanser that replenishes and increases the red blood cell count, raising our blood’s oxygen levels.
Chia microgreens are also full of vitamins, including A, known to help with vision; C, an ascorbic acid that allows your body to absorb iron more readily. In addition, vitamin E prevents cell damage and K that will repair muscle cells, as well as potassium which aids in decreasing blood pressure.
Chia is easy to grow and needs no pre-soaking as it will develop a gel-like substance when wet which will make it harder to spread across your growing medium. Instead, spread the dry seeds on moist soil, or hydroponically if you prefer, and blackout during the germination period for up to 4 days or when you start to see good green sprouts appear.
They taste pretty tangy and can be slightly bitter, so make a great nutritious addition when coupled with your favourite fruits.
Source
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/7-plant-sources-of-omega-3s
https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Chia-Salba-brand-has-more-omega-3-fatty-acids-fiber-protein-and-calcium-than-an_fig1_312165958
https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/food-features/chia-seeds/
https://www.healthline.com/health/foods-nutrition-vitamins-a-b-c-d-e-k
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7468918/
