TÌM THUỐC TRUỜNG SINH VÀ HẠT CHIA SEEDS
Thứ 6, 27 Tháng 11 2009 01:25 | 
Written by BS. Trường Xuân, MD. | 
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TÌM THUỐC TRUỜNG SINH VÀ HẠT CHIA SEEDS
BS. Truờng Xuân,MD.
Năm 1994 đánh dấu một biến cố lạ lùng nhất trong lịch sử thể thao đuờng truờng ở Mỹ. Vào năm đó Ban tổ chức giải chạy đua siêu Marathon ( Ultramarathon) gian khổ nhất thế giới tức là giải Leadville 100 tại vùng núi cao nhất tại tiểu bang Colorado. Giải này đuợc thành lập vào năm 1982 do nhà thám hiểm Ken Chlouber bày ra để thử thách mức chịu đựng tối đa của con nguời đến mức độ nào.
Chặng đuờng kéo dài 100 dặm và ở trên cao độ 10000 bộ và qua nhiều con đeo dốc hết sức nguy hiểm , khó khăn.
Chỉ có những thể thao gia có một thể chất cực kỳ dai sức mới có thể tham dự và đuợc yểm trợ bởi một toán chuyên viên đặc biệt nhất với những phuong tiện tối tân. Ngày cả những siêu luc si nhu Dean Karnazes ( nguời thắng giải Ultramarathon 300 dặm tại California ) hoặc Lance Armstrong cung không chịu nổi sau khi thử thách lần đầu tiên.
Nói chung giải Leadville 100 có thể ví nhu chạy 4 khúc marathon ( 26 dặm) liên tục trong đó 2 khúc chạy trong đem tối, leo 26 con đeo cao và ở trên một cao độ mà các phi co phải đuợc pressurized. .
Vì thế chỉ những lực si có một thể chất vô cùng sắt thép mới dám tham dự giải Leadville 100 và phần thuởng chẳng có gì ngoài một chiếc thắt lung bằng bạc mà thôi. Họ chạy Leadville 100 vì lý do yêu chạy bộ ngoài ra không vì một lý do gì khác !
Vào năm 1994, nhà thám hiểm Rick Fisher có sáng kiến mời 5 nguời thổ dân da đỏ thuộc bộ lạc Tarahumara tham dự giải Leadville 100. Những nguời này sống trong rặng núi Sierra Madre occidental sau khi đất đai của họ bị nguời Mễ và Tây Ban Nha chiếm mất.
Ken truớc đó đa sang thám hiểm vùng này và thấy tại đây có một bộ lạc da đỏ vẫn còn sống trong thời kỳ so khai và có lệ hay chạy đua đuờng truờng mà không hề mệt mỏi. Ken có sáng kiến mời họ tham dự giải Leadville 100 để so sánh họ với những lực si tài giỏi nhất của nuớc Mỹ.
Từ truớc đến nay trong nhiều lần giải nhất đều về tay nữ lực si Ann Treason nhờ đuợc tập luyện vô cùng kỹ luỡng. Nhung năm 1994 đa có sự xuất hiện của 5 nguời da đỏ từ Mexico, ăn mặc lạ lùng với áo choàng trên vai và chân đi đôi dép râu làm bằng vỏ xe nhu dép Bình Trị Thiên !
Kết quả là trong 5 giải đầu thì nhóm Tarahumara chiếm 3 và nguời đoạt giải nhất là một nguời Tarahumara đa 55 tuổi, trong khi Ann Treason chiếm hạng nhì. Sau đó những nguời Tarahumara không tham dự Leadville 100 nữa và trở về đời sống bình thuờng của họ..
Ký giả Christopher McDougall của hãng AP và chủ biên của tạp chí Men’Health đa sang tận noi nghiên cứu bí quyết của nguời Tarahumra và ông đa viết lại đời sống bí hiểm của những “siêu nhân” này nhu thế nào và nhờ thế ông đa tìm ra đuợc một loại thực phẩm sẽ làm đảo lộn phép dinh duỡng tại Mỹ trong những năm tới mà ông viết trong cuốn sách best seller” Born to run “..
Hạt Chia, thuốc truờng sinh bất lão.
Từ hon 25 năm qua, Y học Mỹ đa đạt nhiều tiến bộ trong việc đi tìm nguyên nhân của những chứng bệnh gây tử vong là bệnh đau tim và ung thu.
Ai cung biết là tập thể dục đều đặn, tinh thần thoải mái ổn định là tốt nhung tất cả đều đồng ý là dinh duỡng đúng phép là quan trọng nhất ! Nhung hiện nay các thống kê đều không lấy gì làm khả quan vì 60 % dân chúng Mỹ bị mập phì, 30 % mập bệnh ( morbid obesity ), mỗi năm 1 triệu ruỡi nguời bị một con đau tim, nuớc Mỹ dẫn đầu thề giới về ung thu ruột già ( colo rectal cancer ) và con khủng hoảng Y tế hiện nay cung do những nguyên nhân kể trên mà ra. Trong khi đó thì một khảo cứu của Y si đoàn AMA năm 1961 cho biết là 97 % các truờng hợp so cứng động mạch vành có thể tránh đuợc nhờ dinh duỡng đúng phép. Nuớc Mỹ tiêu xài nhiều nhất thế giới về Y tế những đúng hàng thứ 37 về chất luợng chỉ vì nạn mập phì quá cao và nan giải.
Những cuộc khảo sát tiếp theo trên nguời Tarahumara cho thấy là bí quyết của họ là họ hay ăn một loại hạt mang tên là Chia mỗi khi họ chạy đua đuờng truờng.
Lịch sử ghi lại là hạt Chia truớc đây đuợc coi là nòng cốt của nền văn minh Aztec và Maya và là thực phẩm chính của những chiến si khi ra trận. Nhiều nguời chỉ cần ăn 1 nắm hạt Chia cung đủ sức đi bộ hàng chục cây số mà không biết mệt..
Gần đây hạt Chia cung đuợc phổ biến trên chuong trình Oprah bởi BS tim mạch Mehmet Oz và BS Andrew Weil chuyên về tuổi thọ cung khen ngoi hạt Chia là một môn thuốc rất tốt để phòng những chứng bệnh nan y hiện nay đang lan tràn ở Mỹ.
Chia là gì ?
Chia là một loại thảo mộc đa đuợc nguời Aztec,Maya thuần hóa từ cả ngàn năm về truớc và đem trồng làm thực phẩm dành riêng cho các chiến si ra trận hoặc phải đi làm công tác ở xa. Chia có tên khoa học là salvia Hispaniola thuộc loại Lamiaceae tức cùng loại với các loại thảo mộc dùng làm gia vị nhu loại húng quế, bạc hà ( mint ). Hat Chia rất nhỏ trông nhu các hạt mè hoặc hạt é ( basil ). Loại húng quế ( Ocimum basilicum ) cung đuợc dùng trong nuớc uống tại các nuớc Đông Nam Á tức là nuớc hạt é ( basil seed ). Những thí nghiệm so khởi cho thấy là hạt Chia khi đuợc pha với nuớc thì có thể nở lớn gấp 12 lần và tạo nên một lớp gel mềm do chất soluble fiber. Nhờ lớp gel nên chất đuờng trong bao tử đuợc thấm chậm và đều hon nên có trị số glycemic index thấp, giúp tránh đuợc bệnh tiểu đuờng. Nhờ chất gel nên việc biến duỡng của chất đuờng điều hòa hon và giúp cho việc điều trị bệnh tiểu đuờng tốt hon và tránh đuợc nạn mập phi. Nhiều nguời sau khi uống một ly nuớc pha 1 muỗng lớn hạt Chia thì không bị đói cả nửa ngày.
Nhờ có nhiều chất soluble và insoluble fiber nên hạt Chia giúp tránh đuợc nhiều chứng bệnh đuờng ruột, kể cả ung thu ruột già.
Về chất đạm protein thì hạt Chia có khá nhiều và dễ tiêu hon là protein từ thịt ra và giúp co thể phục hồi mỏi mệt hay sau khi bị thuong hoặc giúp cho phụ nữ có nhiều sữa.
Đặc biệt nhất là hạt Chia có nồng độ lipid rất cao, nhất là loại lipid Omega 3, gấp 3 lần những loại hạt khác nhu flax seed hay lấy ra từ cá hồi, salmon. Chia cung có nhiều chất linolein acid, rất quan trọng cho việc biến duỡng của protein và các hormones trong co thể.
Ngoài ra còn một số khoáng chất quan trọng nhu calcium,boron và nhiều loại hóa chất gọi là long chain triglycerides chống lại bệnh đau tim nhờ bảo vệ các thành mạch máu, artery walls.
Một lợi điểm của hạt Chia là dễ xử dụng. Chỉ cần pha 1 muỗng lớn với nuớc cam, chanh hay sữa đậu nành rồi để lâu khỏang 30 phút thì hạt sẽ nở ra trông giống nhu nuớc hạt é, cùng giống với Chia. Hiện nay chua có khảo cứu về công dụng của nuớc hạt é nhung có lẽ cung có một vài lợi điểm giống nhu hạt Chia.
Có rất nhiều cách để dùng hạt Chia đuợc mô tả nhu rắc trên salad, rắc trên thực phẩm cho trẻ em, pha với yogurt, sherbet hay với bánh ngọt, bánh mì..
Có rất nhiều cách để dùng hạt Chia đuợc mô tả nhu rắc trên salad, rắc trên thực phẩm cho trẻ em, pha với yogurt, sherbet hay với bánh ngọt, bánh mì..
BS William Anderson và Wayne Coates ( Đại học Arizona ) sau khi nghiên cứu tuờng tận về lịch sử cung nhu công dụng của hạt Chia đều công nhận là loại thực phẩm này sẽ là một trong những thức ăn qúy giá nhất trong tuong lại.
Hiện nay các hãng chế biến thức phẩm health foods nhu Akins, GNC cung đang chế tạo nhiều loại hạt Chia và các loại energy bar để bán trên thị truờng cho những nguời quan tâm đến sức khỏe bản thân chống lại những chứng bệnh mãn tính ở Mỹ.
Hiện nay các hãng chế biến thức phẩm health foods nhu Akins, GNC cung đang chế tạo nhiều loại hạt Chia và các loại energy bar để bán trên thị truờng cho những nguời quan tâm đến sức khỏe bản thân chống lại những chứng bệnh mãn tính ở Mỹ.
Trong khi đó thì tại những bộ lạc da đỏ nhu Apache, Navajo,Pima. .tại Arizona thì tình trạng mập phì đa lên tới mức khủng khiếp ví dụ nhu bộ lạc Pima có tỷ lệ bị tiểu đuờng cao nhất thế giới với 90 % bị bệnh ở những nguời trên 50 tuổi. Nguyên dó chỉ vì họ đa bị tiêm nhiễm lối ẩm thực quá du thừa của nếp sống “ văn minh “ co khí ở Mỹ trong thời đại cao kỹ.
Bộ lạc Tarahumara nhờ sống biệt lập trong khu vực Copper Canyon trong rặng núi Sierra Madre xa cách với thế giới bên ngoài nên vẫn duy trì nếp sống lành mạnh đa có từ ngàn xua nhu chạy bộ đuờng truờng và dinh duỡng bằng hạt Chia nên đa tránh đuợc tai họa kể trên.. truớc khi họ bị tiêm nhiễm bởi những thói xấu do du khách đem lại !
BS Truờng Xuân, MD.
CHÚ THÍCH CỦA BBT TVHS:
Chia Seed có thể tìm mua tại Mother Markets.
Chúng tôi tìm được một số bài viết về Chia Seed bằng tiếng Anh như sau:
Chia Seed có thể tìm mua tại Mother Markets.
Chúng tôi tìm được một số bài viết về Chia Seed bằng tiếng Anh như sau:
What Are Chia Seeds?
Chia seeds are one of the most powerful, functional, and nutritious
superfoods in the world! The chia seed is an excellent source of
fiber, packed with antioxidants, full of protein, loaded with vitamins
and minerals, and the richest known plant source of omega-3.
Everyone from children to senior citizens can benefit from the
wonderful nutritional qualities of chia seeds.
Chia seeds are one of the most powerful, functional, and nutritious
superfoods in the world! The chia seed is an excellent source of
fiber, packed with antioxidants, full of protein, loaded with vitamins
and minerals, and the richest known plant source of omega-3.
Everyone from children to senior citizens can benefit from the
wonderful nutritional qualities of chia seeds.
Adding just 2 tablespoons of chia seeds to your daily
diet will give you approximately 7 grams of fiber,
4 grams of protein, 205 milligrams of calcium, and
a whopping 5 grams of omega-3!
diet will give you approximately 7 grams of fiber,
4 grams of protein, 205 milligrams of calcium, and
a whopping 5 grams of omega-3!
More Omega-3 than Atlantic Salmon
More Antioxidants than fresh blueberries
More Fiber than bran flakes
More Calcium than 2% milk
More Protein, Fiber & Calcium than flax seed
More Antioxidants than fresh blueberries
More Fiber than bran flakes
More Calcium than 2% milk
More Protein, Fiber & Calcium than flax seed
Top 5 Reasons to Eat Chia Seeds
1.Chia Seeds Are Nutritious
On top of the fact that chia seeds have more omega-3 than any
other natural source, they are loaded with antioxidants, calcium,
protein, fiber, and many other vitamins & minerals.
2.Chia Seeds Are Energizing
Not only do chia seeds give you a boost of energy that lasts,
they also provide stamina and endurance.. A single tablespoon
could sustain Aztec warriors for an entire day.
3.Chia Seeds Reduce Cravings
Because chia seeds absorb so much water and have high soluble
fiber levels, they help release natural, unrefined carbohydrate
energy slowly into the bloodstream.
4.Chia Seeds Are Easily Digestible
Unlike flax seed, chia seeds do not have to be ground up before
you ingest them. The human body can easily digest chia seeds,
and with about 7 grams of fiber per serving, they actually help.
5.Chia Seeds Are Convenient & Versatile
You can eat chia seeds straight from the bag, mix them with your
favorite drink, add them to your cereal or salad, and just about
anything else. Chia seeds last for years so stock up now!
The Chia Seed
10 Of The Easiest Foods To Add Chia Seeds To:
Cereal
Yogurt
Salad
Muffin, Cookie, & Pancake Recipes
Cottage Cheese
Soup
Peanut Butter & Jelly Sandwiches
Oatmeal
Salsa & Dips
Smoothies
1.Chia Seeds Are Nutritious
On top of the fact that chia seeds have more omega-3 than any
other natural source, they are loaded with antioxidants, calcium,
protein, fiber, and many other vitamins & minerals.
2.Chia Seeds Are Energizing
Not only do chia seeds give you a boost of energy that lasts,
they also provide stamina and endurance.. A single tablespoon
could sustain Aztec warriors for an entire day.
3.Chia Seeds Reduce Cravings
Because chia seeds absorb so much water and have high soluble
fiber levels, they help release natural, unrefined carbohydrate
energy slowly into the bloodstream.
4.Chia Seeds Are Easily Digestible
Unlike flax seed, chia seeds do not have to be ground up before
you ingest them. The human body can easily digest chia seeds,
and with about 7 grams of fiber per serving, they actually help.
5.Chia Seeds Are Convenient & Versatile
You can eat chia seeds straight from the bag, mix them with your
favorite drink, add them to your cereal or salad, and just about
anything else. Chia seeds last for years so stock up now!
The Chia Seed
10 Of The Easiest Foods To Add Chia Seeds To:
Cereal
Yogurt
Salad
Muffin, Cookie, & Pancake Recipes
Cottage Cheese
Soup
Peanut Butter & Jelly Sandwiches
Oatmeal
Salsa & Dips
Smoothies
Nutrition expert Dr. Weil says:
The word chia often conjures visions of those terra-cotta
figurines that, when slathered with chia seeds, grow green
"hair." In reality, these healthful, edible seeds are a better
source of omega-3 fatty acids than flaxseed (the fats protect
against inflammation and heart disease). Chia seeds come from
the desert plant Salvia hispanica, a member of the mint family
that grows in southern Mexico.
The word chia often conjures visions of those terra-cotta
figurines that, when slathered with chia seeds, grow green
"hair." In reality, these healthful, edible seeds are a better
source of omega-3 fatty acids than flaxseed (the fats protect
against inflammation and heart disease). Chia seeds come from
the desert plant Salvia hispanica, a member of the mint family
that grows in southern Mexico.
In pre-Columbian times, chia seeds were a component of the
Aztec and Mayan diets and the basic survival ration of Aztec
warriors; they even played a role in religious ceremonies.
Supposedly, 1 tablespoon of the seeds could sustain a person
for 24 hours.
Aztec and Mayan diets and the basic survival ration of Aztec
warriors; they even played a role in religious ceremonies.
Supposedly, 1 tablespoon of the seeds could sustain a person
for 24 hours.
The Aztecs also used chia medicinally to relieve joint pain and
skin conditions. It was a major crop in central and southern
Mexico well into the 16th century, but it was banned after the
Spanish conquest because of its association with the Aztec
"pagan" religion. Over the past few decades, commercial
production has resumed in Latin America. And here is more
good news: Insects hate the chia plant, so it's easy to find
organic seeds.
skin conditions. It was a major crop in central and southern
Mexico well into the 16th century, but it was banned after the
Spanish conquest because of its association with the Aztec
"pagan" religion. Over the past few decades, commercial
production has resumed in Latin America. And here is more
good news: Insects hate the chia plant, so it's easy to find
organic seeds.
Unlike flaxseed, chia seeds can be stored for long periods
without becoming rancid and don't require grinding (whole
flaxseed is tough to digest). Chia provides fiber (about 2
tablespoons--25 g--give you 7 g of fiber) as well as other
important nutrients, including calcium, phosphorus, magnesium,
manganese, copper, niacin, and zinc.
without becoming rancid and don't require grinding (whole
flaxseed is tough to digest). Chia provides fiber (about 2
tablespoons--25 g--give you 7 g of fiber) as well as other
important nutrients, including calcium, phosphorus, magnesium,
manganese, copper, niacin, and zinc.
Very few formal studies have looked at chia's benefits, although
I expect that more will soon. In a preliminary study from the
University of Toronto, researchers fed 21 diabetics either a
supplement made from chia or grains with similar fiber content.
After 3 months, blood pressure in patients taking chia dropped
(10 points diastolic, 5 points systolic) while the grain group's BP
remained steady.
I expect that more will soon. In a preliminary study from the
University of Toronto, researchers fed 21 diabetics either a
supplement made from chia or grains with similar fiber content.
After 3 months, blood pressure in patients taking chia dropped
(10 points diastolic, 5 points systolic) while the grain group's BP
remained steady.
I enjoy the seeds' nutlike flavor and consider them to be a
healthful and interesting addition to my diet. You can sprinkle
ground or whole chia seeds on cereal, yogurt, or salads; eat a
handful of whole seeds as a snack; or grind them up and mix
with flour when making muffins or other baked goods.
healthful and interesting addition to my diet. You can sprinkle
ground or whole chia seeds on cereal, yogurt, or salads; eat a
handful of whole seeds as a snack; or grind them up and mix
with flour when making muffins or other baked goods.
Or make your own "chia fresca," a drink popular in Mexico and
Central America: Stir 2 teaspoons of the seeds into 8 to 10
ounces of water (you'll end up with a slightly gelatinous liquid).
Add lime or lemon juice and sugar to taste, and enjoy.
My prediction? You will begin to see chia being added to more
and more commercial products, such as prepared baby foods,
nutrition bars, and baked goods.
(Excerpt from prevention.com)
Central America: Stir 2 teaspoons of the seeds into 8 to 10
ounces of water (you'll end up with a slightly gelatinous liquid).
Add lime or lemon juice and sugar to taste, and enjoy.
My prediction? You will begin to see chia being added to more
and more commercial products, such as prepared baby foods,
nutrition bars, and baked goods.
(Excerpt from prevention.com)
Chia Seed
The Ancient Food of the Future
By: William Anderson
The Ancient Food of the Future
By: William Anderson
In the last twenty five years, there has been a resurrection in the definition of medicine, a resurrection that amplifies the significance of our eating habits and our lifestyle. Medicine is not only defined as a treatment for illness and disease, it is now understood to be for the prevention of illness and disease. That would mean, for example, laughter is a medicine because research found it to boost the immune system. Exercise is good medicine for its cardio-vascular stimulation, muscle toning and flexibility and expelling toxins and for giving you a feeling of well-being, all immune boosters. To express a positive attitude towards life is not only good medicine for you, it is good medicine for those in contact with you. But the most important medicine, especially for the prevention of illness and disease, is our diet. It only needs our cooperation in supplying proper hydration and the needed nutrients to effectively maintain a state of well-being.Research has revealed that more than two thirds of all deaths in the United States are diet related. More than 50% of all deaths are caused from coronary occlusion, blockage of the blood flow to the heart and/or the brain. These are all preventable deaths according to the Journal of American Medical Association which published in 1961 that, “All coronary occlusion can be eliminated by 97% through a vegetarian diet.” Fourteen hundred American’s are dying of cancer every day. In the prestigious Advances in Cancer Research, they concluded, “At present, we have overwhelming evidence… (that) none of the risk factors for cancer is… more significant than diet and nutrition.”
Because the question of what might be the optimum diet can, at times, be emotionally charged for many people, having had a significant emotional commitment in believing they know what’s best, I would like to suspend the issues of diet and introduce you to a “super” food that all would agree on. It is known as the Chia Seed. Once valued so much that it was used as currency, this unique little seed has exceptional nutritive and structural benefits.
Chia, is familiar to most of us as a seed used for the novelty of the Chia Pet™, clay animals with sprouted Chia seeds covering their bodies. Little is known, however, of the seeds tremendous nutritional value and medicinal properties. For centuries this tiny little seed was used as a staple food by the Indians of the south west and Mexico. Known as the running food, its use as a high energy endurance food has been recorded as far back as the ancient Aztecs. It was said the Aztec warriors subsisted on the Chia seed during the conquests. The Indians of the south west would eat as little as a teaspoon full when going on a 24hr. forced march. Indians running form the Colorado River to the California coast to trade turquoise for seashells would only bring the Chia seed for their nourishment.
If you try missing a spoonful of Chia in a glass of water and leaving it for approximately 30 minutes or so, when you return the glass will appear to contain not seeds or water, but an almost solid gelatin. This gel-forming reaction is due to the soluble fiber in the Chia. Research believe this same gel-forming phenomenon takes place in the stomach when food containing these gummy fibers, known as mucilages, are eaten. The gel that is formed in the stomach creates a physical barrier between carbohydrates and the digestive enzymes that break them down, thus slowing the conversion of carbohydrates into sugar.
In addition to the obvious benefits for diabetics, this slowing in the conversion of carbohydrates into sugar offers the ability for creating endurance. Carbohydrates are the fuel for energy in our bodies. Prolonging their conversion into sugar stabilizes metabolic changes, diminishing the surges of highs and lows creating a longer duration in their fueling effects.
One of the exceptional qualities of the Chia seed is its hydrophilic properties, having the ability to absorb more than 12 times its weigh in water. Its ability to hold on to water offers the ability to prolong hydration. Fluids and electrolytes provide the environment that supports the life of all the body’s cells. Their concentration and composition are regulated to remain as constant as possible. With Chia seeds, you retain moisture, regulate, more efficiently, the bodies absorption of nutrients and body fluids. Because there is a greater efficiency in the utilization of body fluids, the electrolyte balance is maintained.
Example: Fluid and electrolyte imbalances occur when large amounts of fluids are lost resulting from vomiting, diarrhea, high fever, or more commonly from sweating? The loss of extracellular fluid occurs in these conditions. Intercellular fluid then shifts out of cells to compensate, causing abnormal distribution of electrolytes across cell membranes resulting in cellular malfunction. So. Retaining and efficiently utilizing body fluids maintains the integrity of extracellular fluids, protecting intercellular fluid balance. The results of which ensure normal electrolyte dispersion across cell membranes (electrolyte balance), maintaining fluid balances, resulting in normal cellular function.
Chia seeds are the definitive hydrophilic colloid for the 21 century diet. Hydrophilic colloids, (a watery, gelatinous, glue-like substance) form the underlying elements of all living cells. They posses the property of readily taking up and giving off the substances essential to cell life. The precipitation of the hydrophilic colloids cause cell death.
The food we eat, in the raw state, consist largely of hydrophilic colloids.. When cooked on the other had, precipitates its colloidal integrity. This change in the colloidal state alters the hydration capacity of our foods so as to interfere with their ability to absorb digestive juices. If we were to eat a raw diet we wouldn’t need to introduce the addition of any hydrophilic colloid to our diet. Uncooked foods contain sufficient hydrophilic colloid to keep gastric mucosa in the proper condition. But even with raw foods, they must first be partially broken down by the digestive juices, beginning in the mouth and continuing through he upper tract, to allow the gelatinous reaction to take place. Because of this upper tract digestive process, those who suffer from slow digestion, gas formation, relaxed cardia and heartburn in which the burning is due to organic acids instead of an excess of the normal hydrochloric acid, which frequently accompanies chronic inflammation disease affecting such organs as the heart, lungs, gall bladder and appendix, are usually restricted from eating raw foods. A hydrophilic colloid incorporated with these foods may be used either in connection with the patients regular food or with whatever diet the physician feels is best suited for his patient. The patient with gastric atony or nervous indigestion who complains of heartburn and/or vomiting four to five hours after eating is often helped. There is a lessening of emptying time if the stomach and an improvement in gastric tone. A strict dietary regimen is at as necessary when the hydrophilic.
Because the question of what might be the optimum diet can, at times, be emotionally charged for many people, having had a significant emotional commitment in believing they know what’s best, I would like to suspend the issues of diet and introduce you to a “super” food that all would agree on. It is known as the Chia Seed. Once valued so much that it was used as currency, this unique little seed has exceptional nutritive and structural benefits.
Chia, is familiar to most of us as a seed used for the novelty of the Chia Pet™, clay animals with sprouted Chia seeds covering their bodies. Little is known, however, of the seeds tremendous nutritional value and medicinal properties. For centuries this tiny little seed was used as a staple food by the Indians of the south west and Mexico. Known as the running food, its use as a high energy endurance food has been recorded as far back as the ancient Aztecs. It was said the Aztec warriors subsisted on the Chia seed during the conquests. The Indians of the south west would eat as little as a teaspoon full when going on a 24hr. forced march. Indians running form the Colorado River to the California coast to trade turquoise for seashells would only bring the Chia seed for their nourishment.
If you try missing a spoonful of Chia in a glass of water and leaving it for approximately 30 minutes or so, when you return the glass will appear to contain not seeds or water, but an almost solid gelatin. This gel-forming reaction is due to the soluble fiber in the Chia. Research believe this same gel-forming phenomenon takes place in the stomach when food containing these gummy fibers, known as mucilages, are eaten. The gel that is formed in the stomach creates a physical barrier between carbohydrates and the digestive enzymes that break them down, thus slowing the conversion of carbohydrates into sugar.
In addition to the obvious benefits for diabetics, this slowing in the conversion of carbohydrates into sugar offers the ability for creating endurance. Carbohydrates are the fuel for energy in our bodies. Prolonging their conversion into sugar stabilizes metabolic changes, diminishing the surges of highs and lows creating a longer duration in their fueling effects.
One of the exceptional qualities of the Chia seed is its hydrophilic properties, having the ability to absorb more than 12 times its weigh in water. Its ability to hold on to water offers the ability to prolong hydration. Fluids and electrolytes provide the environment that supports the life of all the body’s cells. Their concentration and composition are regulated to remain as constant as possible. With Chia seeds, you retain moisture, regulate, more efficiently, the bodies absorption of nutrients and body fluids. Because there is a greater efficiency in the utilization of body fluids, the electrolyte balance is maintained.
Example: Fluid and electrolyte imbalances occur when large amounts of fluids are lost resulting from vomiting, diarrhea, high fever, or more commonly from sweating? The loss of extracellular fluid occurs in these conditions. Intercellular fluid then shifts out of cells to compensate, causing abnormal distribution of electrolytes across cell membranes resulting in cellular malfunction. So. Retaining and efficiently utilizing body fluids maintains the integrity of extracellular fluids, protecting intercellular fluid balance. The results of which ensure normal electrolyte dispersion across cell membranes (electrolyte balance), maintaining fluid balances, resulting in normal cellular function.
Chia seeds are the definitive hydrophilic colloid for the 21 century diet. Hydrophilic colloids, (a watery, gelatinous, glue-like substance) form the underlying elements of all living cells. They posses the property of readily taking up and giving off the substances essential to cell life. The precipitation of the hydrophilic colloids cause cell death.
The food we eat, in the raw state, consist largely of hydrophilic colloids.. When cooked on the other had, precipitates its colloidal integrity. This change in the colloidal state alters the hydration capacity of our foods so as to interfere with their ability to absorb digestive juices. If we were to eat a raw diet we wouldn’t need to introduce the addition of any hydrophilic colloid to our diet. Uncooked foods contain sufficient hydrophilic colloid to keep gastric mucosa in the proper condition. But even with raw foods, they must first be partially broken down by the digestive juices, beginning in the mouth and continuing through he upper tract, to allow the gelatinous reaction to take place. Because of this upper tract digestive process, those who suffer from slow digestion, gas formation, relaxed cardia and heartburn in which the burning is due to organic acids instead of an excess of the normal hydrochloric acid, which frequently accompanies chronic inflammation disease affecting such organs as the heart, lungs, gall bladder and appendix, are usually restricted from eating raw foods. A hydrophilic colloid incorporated with these foods may be used either in connection with the patients regular food or with whatever diet the physician feels is best suited for his patient. The patient with gastric atony or nervous indigestion who complains of heartburn and/or vomiting four to five hours after eating is often helped. There is a lessening of emptying time if the stomach and an improvement in gastric tone. A strict dietary regimen is at as necessary when the hydrophilic.
Chia seed may be used in conjunction with almost any diet your doctor or nutritionist feels is necessary for your condition. The Chia’s hydrophilic colloidal properties aid the digestion of any foods contributing to the patients suffering as a result of a sour stomach. Even if you have sensitivity to certain foods, they may be tolerated with slight discomfort or none at all if a hydrophilic colloid is made a part of your diet. The positive effects on the digestion in the upper portion of the gastrointestinal tract often leads to puree their foods may find benefits from hydrophilic colloids which may lead to eliminating the necessity for pureeing. Even raw vegetables, green salads and fruits, which are largely restricted, may often be given to these patients with little or no discomfort after a short time.
There are several hydrophilic foods available that offer these natural benefits. Cactus juice, beet juice, agar, the edible seaweeds, and many proprietary preparations, which include the silica gels, mucilaginous substance of vegetables origin, are among colloids that prove effective. Each one of the above mentioned substances have one or more drawbacks. They are either too expensive, they may produce toxic side effects, bad tasting, not readily available, insufficient hydration capability, or it is indigestible.
Chia seed, a muscle and tissue builder and an energizer of endurance with extensive hydration properties, possesses none of the above disadvantage, and because if its physiochemical properties, supports effective treatment in immediate problems of digestion. Exactly why this should be true may be puzzling at first. However, if we consider the effect of unusual irritation upon the nerves of the gastrointestinal canal, it is reasonable the think that a less violent and more balanced digestion might quiet the activity of the otherwise hyperactive gut. Inasmuch as the same foods, which formerly produced irritation, may frequently be continued without harm when hydrophilic colloids are used. The relief to nerve irritation seems to offer a logical explanation.
The change, in the lower gastrointestinal tract, is due to the effect of the hydrophilic colloid and to a more complete digestion-taking place along the entire tract due to physiochemical alterations. Both factors are important, as there is undoubtedly a better assimilation of food that supports enhanced nutritional absorption while significantly extending necessary hydration as well as encouraging proper elimination.
As a source of protein, the Chia, after ingestion, is digested and absorbed very easily.. This results in rapid transport to the tissue and utilization by the cells. This efficient assimilation makes the Chia very effective when rapid development of tissue takes place, primarily during growth periods if children and adolescents. Also for the growth and regeneration of tissue during pregnancy and lactation, and this would also include regeneration of muscle tissue for conditioning, athletes, weight lifters, etc.
Another unique quality if the Chia seed is its high oil content, and the richest vegetables source for the essential omega-3 fatty acid. It has approximately three to ten times the oil concentrations of most grains and one and a half to two times the protein concentrations of other grains. These oils, unsaturated fatty acids, are the essential oils your body needs to help emulsify and absorb the fat soluble vitamins, A, D, E, & K. Chia seeds are rich in the unsaturated fatty acid, linoleic, which the body cannot manufacture. When there are rich amounts of linoleic acid sufficiently supplied to the body trough diet, linoleic and arachidonic acids can be synthesized from linoleic acid.
Unsaturated fatty acids are important for respiration of vital organs and make it easier for oxygen to be transported by the blood stream to all cells, tissues, and organs. They also help maintain resilience and lubrication of all cells and combine with protein and cholesterol to form living membranes that hold the body cells together.
Unsaturated fatty acids are essential for normal glandular activity, especially of the adrenal glands and the thyroid glad. They nourish the skin cells and are essential for healthy mucus membranes and nerves. The unsaturated fatty acids function in the body by cooperating with vitamin D in making calcium available to the tissues, assisting in the assimilation of phosphorus, and stimulating the conversion of carotene into vitamin A. Fatty acids are related to normal functioning of the reproductive system. Chia sees contain beneficial long-chain triglycerides (LCT) in the right proportion to reduce cholesterol on arterial walls.
The Chia seed is also a rich source of calcium as it contains the important mineral boron, which acts as catalyst for the absorption and utilization of the calcium by the body.
Chia, as an ingredient, is a dieters dream food. There are limitless ways to incorporate the Chia seed into your diet. Chia must be prepared with pure water before using recipes. The seed will absorb 9 times it’s weight in water in less than 10 minutes and is very simple to prepare.
Food Extender/Calorie Displacer: The optimum ratio of water to seed, for most recipes, is 9 part water to 1 part seed. One pound if seed will make 10 pounds of Chia gel. This is the most unique structural quality of the Chia seed. The seed’s hydrophilic (water absorbing) saturated cells hold the water, so when it is mixed with foods, it displaces calories and fat without diluting flavor. In fact, I have found that because Chia gel displaces rather than dilutes, it creates more surface area and can actually enhance the flavor rather than dilute it. Chia gel also works as a fat replacer for many recipes.
Making Chia Gel (9to1 ratio): Put water in a sealable plastic container and slowly pour seed into water while briskly mixing with a wire whisk. This process will avoid any clumping of the seed. Wait a couple of minutes, whisk again and let stand for 5 to 10 minutes. Whisk again before using or storing in refrigerator (Gel will keep up to 2 weeks). You can add this mix to jams, jellies, hot or cold cereals, yogurts, mustard, catsup, tarter sauce, BBQ sauce, etc.. Add the gel, between 50% to 75% by volume, to any of the non-bake mentioned foods, mix well and taste. You will notice a very smooth texture with the integrity of the flavour intact. In addition to adding up to 50% to 75% more volume to the foods used, you have displaced calories and fat by incorporating an ingredient that is 90% water. Use as a fat replacer, for energy and endurance, or for added great taste, buy substituting the oil in your breads with Chia gel. Top your favorite bread dough before baking with Chia gel (for toping on baked goods, breads, cookies, piecrust, etc., reduce the water ration to 8 parts water to 1 part Chia seed) for added shelf life.
There are additional benefits from the Chia seed aside from the nutritive enhancements when used as an ingredient. It was also used by the Indians and missionaries as a poultice for gunshot wounds and other serious injuries. They would pack the wounds with Chia seeds to avoid infections and promote haling. If you place a seed or two in your eyes it will clean your eyes and will also help to clear up any infections. There is a wealth of benefits beyond the information outlined in this article and treasure-trove of benefits yet to be discovered. Chia seed, having a qualitatively unique situational richness along with a profound nutritive profile is one of man’s most useful and beneficial foods and is destined to be the Ancient Food of the Future.
There are additional benefits from the Chia seed aside from the nutritive enhancements when used as an ingredient. It was also used by the Indians and missionaries as a poultice for gunshot wounds and other serious injuries. They would pack the wounds with Chia seeds to avoid infections and promote haling. If you place a seed or two in your eyes it will clean your eyes and will also help to clear up any infections. There is a wealth of benefits beyond the information outlined in this article and treasure-trove of benefits yet to be discovered. Chia seed, having a qualitatively unique situational richness along with a profound nutritive profile is one of man’s most useful and beneficial foods and is destined to be the Ancient Food of the Future.
"There is Truth in the information outlined in this article. Truth flows with the fluidity and ease as the valley’s river. Each drop, as with each word flows as the river in the Truth that reaches to and becomes the ocean." -Wm. Anderson
Cập nhật cuối (Thứ 6, 27 Tháng 11 2009 01:30)