Sunday, May 19, 2013

Chia Seeds

By David Mendosa, Health Guide Thursday, December 13, 2007
You might think that everyone who has diabetes would know about a seed that is superior to other plant and marine sources of essential omega-3 oils. It is also high in antioxidants and fiber. Besides that, it is high in protein and lipids, is low in sodium, and has fewer net carbs than grains. But we...
12/14/07 9:12am

David,

 

Interesting, I came across a small mention of chia seeds somewhere just two days ago, and I've been thinking about trying it, but hadn't really decided on it. Now, after reading this, I think I probably will, as soon as I get some money! Thanks.

David Mendosa, Health Guide
12/14/07 10:21am

Dear Christopher,

 

I understand. Are you still in college or graduate school? That's really tough with a wife and children. I wrote about such money problems at http://www.healthcentral.com/diabetes/c/17/13985/health-wealth 

12/14/07 10:28am

My wife is in grad school (Masters in Social Work) and I am undergrad. I'll actually be starting in a nursing program in the summer.

 

I do remember that article you wrote about "Health and Wealth" and I am truly a firm believer in that. For those with very low incomes, what else can you afford other than rice, pasta, ramen, etc.

David Mendosa, Health Guide
12/14/07 10:40am

Dear Christopher,

 

I have a strong feeling that you will be a great nurse -- knowledgeable and caring.  

Anonymous
Jedid
12/14/07 11:13am

Hi David,

Have you heard of the Salba (chia variety) research that was done in diabetes patients?

They found that Salba lowered inflammation, blood pressure and blood clotting. Salba has so many health effects..

David Mendosa, Health Guide
12/14/07 11:36am

Dear Jedid,

 

Please read my article on chia seeds (above). I did write about Salba there. 

12/14/07 1:19pm
Regarding the Salba, as far as I can see then, is there really isn't a difference between the white and black except price? The Salba is EXPENSIVE!
David Mendosa, Health Guide
12/14/07 1:25pm

Dear Christopher,

 

Right. That is just what Dr. Coates says. And it was already what I had concluded. 

12/14/07 1:29pm

I just called my local health food organic co-op type place to see if they carried chia seeds. The girl said somebody asked a long time ago, and they don't carry it, but could special order it... for $40+ per pound!!! It must have been the Salba, instead of the generic black seeds.

 

I was getting ready to order some seeds, I figured I could spare $9, but the shipping would be the expensive part I think. 

David Mendosa, Health Guide
12/14/07 1:52pm

Dear Christopher,

 

Maybe so. My last order (from chiaseedandoil.com) included $7.69 for shipping three pounds. They do have a flat rate of $10 for 2 to 6 bags of 1.5 pounds each. The next time I am going to get 6 bags.

Anonymous
Jedid
12/15/07 10:44am
How do you know there is no difference? What is the nutritional difference between all those chia varieties, and what impact does that have on our health?
David Mendosa, Health Guide
12/15/07 1:21pm
Actually, all the chia seeds commercially sold are one variety in two different colors. My article linked a table comparing them.
Anonymous
Anonymous
1/10/08 2:03am

Try www.getchia.com

just got my order super fast free priority mail shipping and the best price and quality of seed=)

3/27/10 9:12pm

There is no defference between the white and the black chia seed! In fact Salba is just a name brand and they are very expencive. I get my chia from www.getchia.com   They have the best prices and it's the best best quality that I found. And they have FREE shipping too!

Shawna

Anonymous
hannah
5/10/11 12:52am

That link is broken now.

12/14/07 10:05pm
Thanks for this great information.  I always very much appreciate all the info you share with us all!
Anonymous
Luv-my-chia
12/15/07 1:14am

Hi!

Given that I'm a walking rave for these great little seeds I'm surprizingly slow at chiming in here. Busy!

 

I'm so glad you've posted this David!

 

As I indicated at your 'Dawn Phenomenon' post, I swear by chia seeds. I eat a lot more than you do and love them. I eat a TBSP before morning walk and breakfast, about another 4 TBSPs thru the day and 1 more at bedtime. Yes, a total of 6 TBSP but its worth it!

They:

- help stabilize my blood sugars all day and night, (details in my other post) and improved A1c of 5.8.

- give me a tremendous energy boost.

- curb my appetite and cravings.

- are a great digestive aid and keep me from having acid stomach.

- keep things 'moving along' more enjoyably than metamucil and such. 

 

They are helping friends and family in those and other ways including better sleep pattern, helping with mood, make smoking less desirable.  

 

I love their 'tapioca like' texture in liquids or puddings but they can be used in tons of ways. I also get them 6 bags at a time from www.ArizonaChia.com .

 

Anonymous
Earlene
12/27/07 6:23pm
I bought chia seeds and have used them in drinks and as a topping but would like to have your pudding recipe. My internet search turned up mostly raw food recipes based on bananas mixed with other fruit. I am thinking of a tapioca type with soy milk or tofu and a pumpkin pie flavor but wonder how much chia to add to get the right texture.
Anonymous
luv-my-chia
12/30/07 5:48am

I don't have a specific pudding recipe. I just mix 2-4 TBSP into the pudding depending on how many servings I'm making. I use diet pudding mix if I'm feeling lazy. If I feel like cooking I mix soy milk or milk, tofu, eggs, stevia, vanilla or cocoa, and of course chia. I've had to experiment with quantities and don't have it perfect yet as I don't do it often.

 

I also add them to diet jell-o - works best if I can remember to re-stir when it is just beginning to gel. 

And I add them to stir fry, soups and drink them warm in soup broth - yummy! My sis has added them to multi-grain breads she bakes and I've added a generous quantity to a flax meal muffin recipe of my own concoction.

 

A friend mixes them into cereal - hot or cold. Another mixes them into peanut butter or jelly to make her kids sandwiches.

They can also be added to yogurt, casseroles, meat loaf, salads, cole slaw or just about anything. I like to experiment.

 

Here are some websites that have recipes:

 http://www.arizonachia.com/recipes/free.pdf  this is an 11 page pdf of recipes

http://www.sourcesalba.com/view-recipes.php?category_id=18

Salba is an expensive brand name for chia

http://ladiehlcrr.abmp.com/products/hpdi/proddtls/recipeschia.htm


http://www.natures-emporium.com/chianrecipes.html

 

1/21/13 5:08pm

I am new to trying the chia seeds. I am in my mid 40's experiencing many "new" problems as I age. No energy, artheritis inflamation in my knees, high cholestrol, high blood pressure and overweight. I absolutely love these seeds! I cannot describe how great they make me feel. I now have energy, less brain fog, the pain of the artheritis in my knees have subsided and I have lowered blood pressure and my cholestrol is where it should be. The problem is I get terrible headaches from taking them. Nothing takes the headaches away except to stop taking the chia seeds. Also, I cut myself the other day and the wound wouldn't stop bleeding or scab so this indicates to me that it is a blood thinner. Has anyone else had these issues taking the seeds? If not for the headaches and bleeding this would be an absolute miracle to take daily. Any thoughts or recommendations?

1/21/13 5:08pm

I am new to trying the chia seeds. I am in my mid 40's experiencing many "new" problems as I age. No energy, artheritis inflamation in my knees, high cholestrol, high blood pressure and overweight. I absolutely love these seeds! I cannot describe how great they make me feel. I now have energy, less brain fog, the pain of the artheritis in my knees have subsided and I have lowered blood pressure and my cholestrol is where it should be. The problem is I get terrible headaches from taking them. Nothing takes the headaches away except to stop taking the chia seeds. Also, I cut myself the other day and the wound wouldn't stop bleeding or scab so this indicates to me that it is a blood thinner. Has anyone else had these issues taking the seeds? If not for the headaches and bleeding this would be an absolute miracle to take daily. Any thoughts or recommendations?

Anonymous
LMB
12/15/07 4:07pm

I am one of the grateful recipients of the immediately preceding poster's evangelizing! I eat approx. 1 TBS at breakfast, 1-2 TBS at lunch, and maybe 1TBS for an afternoon or evening snack.  I find the chia nonpalatable when in gel form, so always eat unsoaked, uncooked.

 

I can attest to the smoking-suppression effects of chia.  For approx. 1 hr. immediately after ingestion I have no desire for a cigarette.  When I am finally ready to quit for good I plan to incorporate chia into my planned accupuncture and herb quitting regime.  I also notice digestive and appetite suppressant benefits of chia.

 

What else is there to say?  Chia Rocks!  So, BTW, does Arizona Chia, for their great product at reasonable price and prompt professional service!

 

Thanks for the great article, David! 

Anonymous
Dee Sperling
12/19/07 3:59pm

I read about chia seeds on a Yahoo list I belong to that discusses kombucha tea, kefir, and other probiotic producing foods, and decided to give them a try.

The best price I found is at http://www.getchia.com/  AND they have free shipping.

After ordering, I realized I should have researched what you thought first, luckily, you like them!  Whew!

Thanks for all you do for me and others with diabetes.

Best regards,

Dee

David Mendosa, Health Guide
12/19/07 6:38pm

Dee,

 

Thank you! We will check out your source.

 

David 

Anonymous
luv-my-chia
12/20/07 12:30am

Cosmic,

I'm always on the lookout for the best deal, but this is not really it. Though shipping may be free for 10 lb you still pay $7.50 per lb.
With www.ArizonaChia.com you pay $6 per lb and $10 priority mail shipping for 9 lbs of seeds for a total $64 or $7.11 per lb. Also you have to use PayPal and I won't due negative past experiences.

Another place someone told me about, www.purenatures.com does seem a bit competative while their chia is on sale.
My efriend reports $61.73 for 10 lbs. which is $6.12 per lb
but
their chia is on sale at 10 lbs for $44.95 so that is 16.74 for S&H. I've emailed them pointing out that a flat rate priority box could be done for much less like Arizona Chia does - but I suspect they try to keep prices looking low by adding the handling to the postage.
At their regular price of 10 lbs for $69.99 plus the same shipping it is $86.73 or $8.67 per lb.

So while theirs is on sale one could save nearly a dollar a lb but in the long run Arizona Chia still comes out the best.

 

But I think we should each get it where we think best. I'm still delighted with all the great effects I get from chia seeds and am even giving some as a Christmas present.

Anonymous
lul-my-chia
12/20/07 4:31pm

Whoops! that's not clear.

I mean that with getchia.com you have to use PayPal.

Anonymous
Anonymous
12/20/07 8:20pm

Thanks for the input, luv-my-chia.

I will definitely keep those websites in mind if I order more.

I chose the getchia website for the free shipping, since I just wanted a little bit to try.

Dee

Anonymous
luv-my-chia
12/21/07 6:29am

Cosmic,

Always happy to get or share new info - esp about chia seeds.

 

Anonymous
Anonymous
1/10/08 1:58am

You don't have to use PayPal with

www.GetChia.com

They use them to process the credit cards, but you don't have to be a member or signup etc.

Also, PayPal does not contact or solicit you, they just make their cut on processing the payment - Thought you should know!

Anonymous
Anonymous
1/10/08 2:01am

Hey, just checked the

www.GetChia.com site and found out their 10 pounder is only $70 INCLUDING shipping!

I bought it at that rate anyway and I have had lightning quick FREE priority mail delivery and perfect supreme grade A+ seed!

thought you should know!

Anonymous
healthnut
3/ 6/08 8:13am
hey luv-my-chia!  i am a kinda health nut, and my go to place just starting selling chia seeds and i decided to google around to learn more about them.  (hence, i landed here).  guess what!  i found an even better deal.  my go to place, nutsonline.com, sells them starting at 4.99 a pound and goes as low as 3.70 a pound.  there is shipping, but you can order 10 pounds across the country and with shipping it only comes to 6.04 a pound.  check it out- chia seeds at NutsOnline.com.  You can also get all kinds of nuts there, and even quinoa, which is super healthy.  haha...sounds like an advertisement.  hehe.  i am so excited to get my chia!
Anonymous
luv-my-chia
3/ 6/08 5:34pm

Hey healthnut!

Thanks for the info.

Alas, I have a US PO, I am not mainland USA and their shipping here is too much. I've emailed them about the advantages of using flat rate priority boxes and if they offer that option in the future I'll likely switch as it would make them very competitive. Will let you know here IF they reply. They look like a source for a couple of other things I get online - or would like to - again IF they can make a competitive shipping rate.  

Anonymous
luv-my-chia
3/11/08 2:13am

Update: http://www.nutsonline.com/ is willing to accomodate individual needs for flat rate priority postage, by accepting email or phone orders. So they do become compertitive in price even for those of us living in a far off territory vs the States themselves. Statesiders may not theed that accomodation as the FedEx and UPS lowest rates are in the same range. Since they have affordable ground cinnamon which I've also been seeking an online source for, as the stuff is rather expensive here, I will likely make the switch. I certainly will be watching for chia to come up on their weekly specials.

Anonymous
healthnut
3/24/08 4:33pm
Yippee!  I am so happy luv-my-chia!  Yay chia!  Yay nutsonline.com Tongue
Anonymous
michael
9/30/08 12:09am
I read your comment about your yahoo list group---I also have diabertes --I am interest in the subjects you discuss on line eg kobucha ,Kifir etc ---is it possable for me to join the disscussion groop--I dont realy know what a list groop is and how you join it --my e mail is drmichaelogrady @ yahoo.com. Please advise if i can joine and how to go about it --yours---michael.
David Mendosa, Health Guide
9/30/08 8:03am

Dear Michael,

You posted the comment below to one of my articles. Were you writing to me or to someone else? If to me, I don't have a yahoo list group. I do have a free monthly email newsletter, "Diabetes Update." People can subscribe to it by writing to www.mendosa.com/subscribe

Best regards,

David

Anonymous
Bucky
1/ 3/08 9:57pm

Mr. Mendosa,

I read on line, because of its high fiber content, don't take chia within 2 hours of any medication, as it can interfere with the  absorbtion.  Do you know anything about this?  I have just recently started taking chia.  So far, I like it much better than flax.

David Mendosa, Health Guide
1/ 3/08 10:27pm

Dear Bucky,

 

Good question. I haven't heard of interactions between fiber and medication before. But that could be true. I suggest that you ask your doctor.

 

Best regards,

 

David 

Anonymous
kennedy
2/17/10 10:43pm

Do not take fiber within 2-4 hours of taking medication because it will get lost in the fiber. My husband has to take daily fiber per his doctors intructions and that was one caveats.

Anonymous
Gary
1/ 4/08 12:47am

I just have to ask. Chia, as in "Chia Pets"? I have visions of bald diabetics sprouting green hair ;>

David Mendosa, Health Guide
1/ 4/08 12:50am

Dear Gary,

 

Yes, there is a connection. Apparently Chia Pets are quite well known (but not to me). I ran across references to them several times in my research on chia seed.

 

Hey, green hair is better than no hair!

 

David 

Anonymous
Anonymous
1/10/08 2:13am

Yep, THANKS!

Just ordered from the GetChia.com site and can't wait to try!

Anonymous
Robert K. Baker
1/16/08 12:51am

Beware of purchasing from Arizona Chia.  They have a practice of double billing your credit card and then not responding when you raise the issue.

 

Robert K. Baker

RKB@andso.com

 

David Mendosa, Health Guide
1/16/08 3:20pm

The owner of Arizona Chia, Dr. Wayne Coates, just informed me as follows:

 

"What happened was a glitch in the authorize.net server which processes our cards.  Once we found the error which was just today, we credited immediately."

 

David 

 

 

 

 

Anonymous
Robert K. Baker
1/16/08 3:44pm

Mr Mendosa,

 

Is the explanation plausible? You decide!

 

The double charge to my credit card was made on December 31, 2007. Arizona Chia was notified of the double charge and ask to make the necessary reversing enry on January 4, 2008.

 

By January 15, 2008, no action had been taken. At one a.m. on Januar 16, 2008, Arizona Chia was sent another notice and an indication I would take appropriate action. More significantly the warning which gave rise to this exchange was posted on the Diabetes web site.

 

Under these circumstances they were able to find the error in less than 18 hours. In fact it was only six hours into the business day.

 

You decide whether it really took them ten days to "find the error" or whether they were merely responding to bad publicity.

 

There is no evidence and it seems unlikely that Dr. Coates is the sort who would sanction such behavior, but perhaps he should take a look at the people working for him.

 

If it happens again, it is his responsibility!

 

Robert K. Baker

 

Anonymous
Earlene
2/16/08 6:14pm

I have been buying GG bran crackers to have something crunchy. They come from Norway and are getting very expensive. I decided to try making some myself but used ground chia seeds instead of the small amount of rye flour on the ingredient list.

My crackers turned out great! I used two cups of wheat bran and one cup of ground(by me) chia seeds. I mixed them well dry and added water till it looked like I could press it out. I had to put it back in the bowl because it was still too dry. I kept adding water untill it was softer and then pressed it out as thin as I could over a foil lined jelly roll pan(cookie sheet). I shaped it into a large rectangle,rolled it thinner and baked it for 15 min. before scoring it into squares. I baked it (350 degrees, sorry) for about 30 min. more. I then turned the oven off and let it sit overnight. I have a great oven that does pure convection, convection bake, and regular bake. I used convection bake which blows hot air and heats from the bottom so I did not have to turn anything over, it was toooo big. I will try ground flax seeds next, the ground chia tasted less wonderful than I expected, I thought a little fishy. I may also try it with a small measured ammount of rye flour which is on the GiGi package or just less chia. I did not figure the carbs but I cant eat more than two at a time because I think they swell to the size of baseballs!
I had two for lunch covered with a mix of Trader Joe's canned red salmon, a spoon of TJ's Aoli mustard and some chopped green onions. Sardines are also good this way. I have plenty of salmon for another lunch and enough crackers for quite a while. I got about a dozen nicely shaped ones an quite a few edge bits which might make few servings of cereal if I break them up add some hot water to soften and then some cream. I have done that with two GiGi crackers.

Anonymous
Zane Baranowski
5/ 8/08 2:47pm

Hello,

There IS a HUGE difference in soaking/sprouting chia.

We have perfected a sprouting technique for chia, and see an ORAC rating with the sprouted chia as 2.5X higher than non-sprouted.

To say there is NO difference in sprouting is simply not true.

Thanks,

Zane Baranowski, CN

sprouts@frontier.net

David Mendosa, Health Guide
5/ 8/08 3:15pm

Dear Zane,

 

Very interesting. Where can I see a publication of the ORAC rating you mention?

 

David Mendosa

Anonymous
Rod Newbound, RN
7/ 8/08 8:53pm

Thanks David, for the enlightening interview with Dr. Coates about chia seeds.  As a nurse and an editor for antiaginghacks.com, I decided to try the Salba brand.  But since I also happen to be from Missouri, I tend to be skeptical of wild claims, especially when the brand Salba is so much more expensive than generic chia seeds.

 

I've been taking chia as part of my morning breakfast with plain yogurt and a little applesauce for flavoring.  Even though I only take a teaspoon full, I can tell the difference when I don't take it. 

 

I'm delighted to see an old grain being brought back to commerce.  Especially one with so many benefits.

 

Respectfully,

Rod Newbound, RN

7/13/08 7:58pm

Wayne Coates and all of his websites are no longer selling chia seeds. I went there a few times in the past couple weeks and he has shut down all of his selling operations on chiaseedandoil.com, arizonachia.com, getchia.com, etc. I called the number to his business and they referred me to a site called TheChiaSeed.com because they offer the same seeds that Wayne used to. Hopefully this helps some other readers find quality chia seeds on the net, and another great article david!!

Anonymous
luv-my-chia
7/26/08 4:09pm

That's an expensive place to get them.

Try : http://www.nutsonline.com 

cheaper and very friendly service.

Anonymous
Anonymous
8/20/09 6:38pm

Order NOT received from TheChiaSeed.com after 2 weeks.  No email response.  Submitted PayPal dispute.  Buyer beware . . similar complaints!

Anonymous
Mary
9/ 2/09 1:30pm

You can buy the most healthy foods, chia seed  at Hidalgofoods.com

8/18/11 4:02pm

Yes, it's true that Dr. Wayne Coates developed Mila for Lifemax.  It's also true that they had a parting of the ways.  Perhaps due to the fact that Mila sells for $55 PER POUND!  Dr. Waye Coates sells his own identical chia on his website, azchia.com which is up and running for around $9 per pound.  Get it from the master, not from a multi level marketing scheme.

Anonymous
alma hernandez
8/12/08 12:33pm

I noticed at the end of the article that you mention that you will continue to take the fish oil (albeit) in lower doses.  Why is it necessary to continue to take the fish oil; I thought that the chia seed provided the same if not better benefit than fish oil.  I am a registered nurse and I have never been able to tolerate "conventional" medicine, thus always researching natural products (I have arthritis, neuropathy-not diabetic, and am a cancer survivor).  Thank you.

David Mendosa, Health Guide
8/12/08 6:04pm

Dear Alma,

 

Since chia seeds provide omega-3 oils in a different form that is harder for us to digest, I take fish oil capsules (and eat fish) to be sure to get enough.

 

David

Anonymous
Anonymous
9/ 2/08 7:57am

I was surprised to receive an e-mail from Dr. Coats touting his new line of Chia, $60 for 12 oz.  I could not find any information on the new website explaining how this was superior to ordinary chia at $7/lb, it was only compared to flax seed.  Are you still in touch with Dr. Coates and able to find out this information?

David Mendosa, Health Guide
9/ 2/08 6:45pm

Good question. No, I am no longer in touch with Dr. Coates now that he has joined a multi-level (network) marketing company.

 

David

Anonymous
Anonymous
9/ 3/08 7:31am

Thank you anyway, I wasn't aware that it was an MLM, which would acccount for the much higher prices.  I am surprised that they would continue to publish his research in peer reviewed journals with that large of a conflict of interest (although perhaps that is another topic).

Anonymous
Anonymous
9/24/08 1:49pm

I have recently read some good articles on Chia seeds. My question is can you take these seeds if you have diverticulits??

 

Thank you in advance for your answers.

 

Marv

David Mendosa, Health Guide
9/25/08 10:24am

Dear Marv,

 

You might want to check out the latest medical advice about diverticulits. From what I happened to see, doctors may no longer be concerned about your eating seeds.

 

Best regards,

 

David

Anonymous
Steve
9/26/08 2:48pm

Dear David

 

The company for which I work is a potential commercial user of chia, as an ingredient in bread. Its nutritional properties are attractive as is its unique character. I have seen references on other websites responding to questions about whether or not chia isa source of cyanogens. As you know, many plants contain hydrogen cyanide precursors, called cyanogens. Flax is one example. Apparently the human body has enzyme(s) which negate the effect of cyanogens when consumed in moderate amounts. The fact that I see the same question asked on different websites makes me wonder if there is anything to this. My company exports food products to Japan which contain small amounts of flax. The Japanese customs agency frequently quarantines our products while they perform total cyanide assay. I don't want to use chia if it will trigger the same reaction from the Japanese.

What information can you share about this?

 

Thank you

David Mendosa, Health Guide
9/26/08 10:56pm

Dear Steve,

 

I don't have any information about cyanogens to share, because this is the first I have ever heard of it whether in chia seeds, flax, or anything else. I do know that Dr. Coates was anxious to damn flax, but he never discussed cyanogens in flax seeds with me.

 

David

Anonymous
Steve
10/ 3/08 2:13pm

Thank you, David, for the response.

When I first heard of the connection, I was surprised too. If you do a Google search on "flax cyanide" you will find information of varying quality. The bottom line of reputable data I have seen is that in anything like a normal intake of flax, there is no safety issue.

The chia supplier sent a sample for cyanide assay. The report came back negative. In the words of the lab "We find no evidence of cyanogenic response in ground seeds".

Hopefully, this is the end of it.

Best regards,

 

Steve

David Mendosa, Health Guide
10/ 3/08 5:54pm

Dear Steve,

 

Thanks for following up and getting to closure on this issue.

 

David

10/10/08 1:54pm

Hi, brand new member here.

I make a pudding with chia using 1/2 cup almond milk, 1/2 cup sugar free syrup (for  flavoring mostly) & 1/4 cup chia seeds. Just mix & put in the fridge. For me this makes 2 yummy servings.

Thanks for this site, a real blessing.

Gracie

Anonymous
Maggy
10/30/08 2:12pm

I know about chia, but am very hapy to know that I don't have to choke down the gel! I can't wait to tell my family and friends aobut this.

Maggy

Anonymous
Emily
4/10/09 5:45pm

No one should ever have to 'choke down' chia.

It's just too versatile! I have also noticed that foods with it in there (Like salad dressings & etc) actually taste a bit BETTER with chia mixed in there. If you fix it with chia one time, then without it another, you can taste the difference in my opinion. If you're not going for purely price on chia this place is worth it:

 

www.mychiaseeds.com because they give away to you 2 free cook books (of recipes that all use chia seeds in them) when you buy any of their seeds.

Anonymous
Bill
12/ 8/08 12:06pm

Can Chia seed be substituted for flax seed in the Budwig’s diet procedures.

Thank you

Bill

David Mendosa, Health Guide
12/ 8/08 1:34pm

Bill,

 

If the Budwig's people know about chia seeds (and not everyone does), I'm confident that you coud make that substitution. But you will need to contact them to be sure.

 

David

Anonymous
David Danser
12/21/08 5:12pm

I read all that good info on Chia seeds. So now where do you buy them and what do they cost?(aprox.)

David Mendosa, Health Guide
12/21/08 5:56pm

Several comments here answer your question. Hope this helps!

 

David

1/ 2/09 11:00pm

As of today (Jan 02 2009) the chia seed at nutsonline.com is $6.99 for the black seed and $7.99 for the white, not like before.

 

Brad

10/23/10 10:16pm

go to successtherapy.lifemax.net for the best quality chia on the market...nothing but pure chia, best of the best, with NO GRASS,TWIGS, STEMS or other "trash" in it.

1/21/09 6:03am

I've just discovered chia seeds, and find that  adding the gel to some foods,

like chicken salad,  is an easy way to get it into the diet.  You can add quite a lot

witout affecting the flavor of the food you've added it to.

 

So I guess I will keep the gel in the frig.

 

Anonymous
Bjay
2/19/09 5:27pm

Thanks for the great post.  I recently started adding chia seed recipes on my blog - as well as mentioned you recently lol.  I've eaten chia most of my life and thought I already knew a lot about it, but I just learned a lot more from your post.  Thanks! 

 

Bjay

DiabeticMommy.com

BjaysBlog.Blogspot.com

2/23/09 1:24pm

I have a question about Green lip mussel. I am led to believe this mussel has more omega 3 than anything else. Does anyone know this for a fact or is it just another gimmick to sell something?

 

Bill

David Mendosa, Health Guide
2/23/09 9:08pm

Dear Bill,

 

I've never heard of that. Suggest that you investigate further!

 

Best regards,

 

David

Anonymous
David A Klar
2/23/09 6:52pm

What a crock! The good doctor claims your body "conerts chia to fish oil." Well, I'm no doctor, but, even I know that is a myth! He's comparing apples and orangs! Chia is chia; fish oil is fish oil! Geez, Doc!

Anonymous
Ronny
9/17/09 7:31pm
Hehe...I assumed when I read the article that he meant the conversion of short chain ALA to long chain EPA and DHA, but now that you mention it, that is a pretty awkward way of putting it, especially for a medical professional....makes one question his authority (seems more like a salesman who happens to have MD certification). Also, there seems to be a consensus that only a small amount of EPA is manufactured from ALA by our bodies, and very little (perhaps none) DHA is manufactured by our bodies from ALA.
Anonymous
kay
3/21/09 9:59am

Forever Living Aloe Products makes a GinChia tablet

that I took when pregnant.

I had total energy and never stressed.

It is an amazing product.

 

K. Whitton

Belton, Texas

3/26/09 8:46pm

Hello from Canada.

 

I am most interested in this chia discussion. I have been interested in Chia for a long time and in the past year have had the opportunity to try both Salba and bulk seeds. The effects were astonishing and distressing (spent a lot of time on the phone with a woman at the Salba company!).

 

After eating the seeds my blood sugars began to climb and climb and climb.Each of the three times that I tried them, there developed significant pain in my liver and the blood sugars levels required  boluses of insulin to cover the increases in blood glucose for 12 hours after ingestion.

 

When I spoke with the people at Salba they were astonished, curious and very interested in sending me more Salba so that I could try again and share my results with them one more time. I declined, it had been such an uncomfortable experience the first three times.

 

Comments or similar experiences shared are welcome. If you found a solution to any of these problems I am most interested; I have been just a little shy about trying again. Any type 1s using chia, please talk to me. I have been diabetic for 53 years, ticking along quite well and always interested in new developments and supports.

 

Cheers everyone for another day well done.

 

Jane

 

I so look forward to your postings David. Many thanks.

3/26/09 8:46pm

Hello from Canada.

 

I am most interested in this chia discussion. I have been interested in Chia for a long time and in the past year have had the opportunity to try both Salba and bulk seeds. The effects were astonishing and distressing (spent a lot of time on the phone with a woman at the Salba company!).

 

After eating the seeds my blood sugars began to climb and climb and climb.Each of the three times that I tried them, there developed significant pain in my liver and the blood sugars levels required  boluses of insulin to cover the increases in blood glucose for 12 hours after ingestion.

 

When I spoke with the people at Salba they were astonished, curious and very interested in sending me more Salba so that I could try again and share my results with them one more time. I declined, it had been such an uncomfortable experience the first three times.

 

Comments or similar experiences shared are welcome. If you found a solution to any of these problems I am most interested; I have been just a little shy about trying again. Any type 1s using chia, please talk to me. I have been diabetic for 53 years, ticking along quite well and always interested in new developments and supports.

 

Cheers everyone for another day well done.

 

Jane

 

I so look forward to your postings David. Many thanks.

4/ 7/09 5:06pm

I am a 72-year old woman, newly diagnosed as pre-diabetic.  My endocrinologist prescribed a statin drug for my bad cholesterol, which wasn't that bad yet, but it gave me such horrid stomach pain that I stopped it. 

 

Then I read about the chia seeds and decided to try them.  I have been able to stop taking my nightly acid reflux herbal pills and my energy level is so much better.  Last week, I had more bloodwork done and today got the results that my cholesterol levels, especially the LDL levels had dropped a bit and my endo says that my cholesterol panel is very good.  The only negative on my test reults is the blood glucose level which has risen a little.  I have not found that the seeds curb my appetite very much, but the positive effects I have been getting with the seeds way outweighs the negative.  I will continue to use them.  

 

I get mine from IHerb.com.  They are fast and less expensive than other places. 

David Mendosa, Health Guide
4/ 7/09 7:59pm

Thanks for your message and particularly for suggesting iHerb.com. While I have bought almost all of my supplements from them for years, I never realized that they carry chia seeds.

 

Best regards,

 

David

Anonymous
Anonymous
4/19/09 2:34pm

 i am interested in chia too and just ordered some. this is the second time i have heard of rising blood sugars yet it is recomended for diabetics. i would like to know of any danger before recomending this to a diabetic friend as i am not diabetic or a dr. thanks chris

Anonymous
Anonymous
4/ 8/09 8:53am

I just saw this company mentioned on NaturalNews.com.

 

Very good prices and free shipping.

 

It's www.ChiaSeedsDirect.com

 

I ordered three days ago and just got my shipment today.

Anonymous
James E. Burnett
4/26/09 8:26pm

Hello, I read with interest all the comments and would like for you to let me know what health benefits you have found in using chia seeds.  I have read some of the advertisements and it is touted as a "wonder food."  Just what are the known health benefits  I checked my source of bulk foods where I buy my ascorbic acid (vit.c) and flax seeds.Chia seeds there range from $32.23 for 5 lbs to 25 lbs. for $155.00.  I haven't checked the other sources mentioned in the replys yet.  I am just interested in knowing from you what health benefits can be expected from using these seeds.  Thank you for your time and for your web site.

 

Jim Burnett, Mission, TX   (soon to be 80)

David Mendosa, Health Guide
4/26/09 9:33pm

Dear Jim,

 

I did my best to summarize the health benefits of eating chia seeds in my article at http://www.healthcentral.com/diabetes/c/17/17801/chia-seeds/

 

I still eat them several times a day. I sprinkle them liberally on eggs, salad, chicken, yogurt, etc.

 

Best regards,

 

David

Anonymous
Cari
4/27/09 11:30am

I'm interested in using chia seeds for my son, who is 9 years old. Are chia seeds appropraite for younger kids?  Also, is there a recommended or minimum/maximum amount a child should eat?  Thanks!

David Mendosa, Health Guide
4/27/09 11:48am

Dear Cari,

 

I can't imagine any reason why your son should not eat chia seeds too! Since they are high in fiber, it might be a good idea to start with small amounts and build up to the amount that he would like.

 

Best regards,

 

David

Anonymous
Henry Lavine
4/30/09 12:58am

David,

Chia may be a good food although there are debates about whether it prevents nutrients from other sources from being fully absorbed in your intestine. What surprises me, though, is that you give so much credibility to Wayne Coates. When writing an article about Chia, why would you solicit information from somebody who has such an obvious conflict of interest? He denies the value of anything he's not selling even if it's essentially the same thing or better.

David Mendosa, Health Guide
4/30/09 9:38am

Dear Henry,

 

Thank you for you comments. I'm very interested in your first one that some other sources that you didn't name say that chia seeds may prevent nutrients from other sources from being absorbed. I have never heard that and would appreciate your follow-up citation of those sources.

 

As to Wayne Coates, I think that I did make it clear that he sells chia seeds. But long before he sold them he wrote the best book ever about them, so he is clearly the world's expert.

 

By the way, what is your interest in chia seeds? Do you have any connection with anything like, for example, flax seeds?

 

Best regards,

 

David

Anonymous
Henry Lavine
5/ 2/09 4:14am

David,

The source of my first comment was my doctor who recommended chia. He often rails against poorly conducted studies. He also had comments similar to a post on this thread from Bucky back in January 08 regarding the effect on absorption of medications. I left a message at his office requesting a citation but haven't heard back. I'll let you know when I do. I'll be seeing him in June.

 

As to Wayne Coates, just because he wrote a book, even if it's the best book, doesn't make him "clearly the world's expert." As an experienced journalist, I'm sure you're well aware of this. Perhaps you meant to make the argument that he is the worlds leading expert because he and his colleague Rechardo Ayerza at U of A have done more research than anybody on chia. You stated that "I think that I did make it clear that he sells chia seeds" but I can't find anything to that affect in the article. Did I miss it?

 

I have no connection to anything in the industry, such as products like flax, chia, or fish oil. I came across your article while looking for more information about chia after my doctor recommended it for both me and my son. We started taking it for the first time today and will post about our experience as time goes on. Thank you for continuing to contribute to this thread.

David Mendosa, Health Guide
5/ 2/09 9:38am

Dear Henry,

 

Thank you for your clarification. I am glad that you you have an objective opinion about chia seeds. And please let me know what your doctor gives as his source.

 

Best regards,

 

David

10/23/10 10:22pm

regarding absorbtion, make sure you drink plenty of water when you eat chia.  If you have read about how the seeds abosrb water and make a gel, then you will see what it can do in your body if you don't drink enough water. 

Anonymous
psdaengr
5/ 5/09 2:59pm

With many seeds their nutritional properties are enhanced by sprouting, and it also improves digestibility.  Has this been tested with chia seed?. 

David Mendosa, Health Guide
5/ 5/09 4:30pm

Yes, sprouting often enhances nutrition. Think broccoli and see http://www.healthcentral.com/diabetes/c/17/60926/broccosprouts

 

But I don't know of any chia seed sprout tests.

 

David

Anonymous
Margaret
8/16/09 1:48pm

While you can eat chia sprouts, you will find them fairly unpalatable.

 

Additionally, much of the fiber is lost when the seed coat remains stuck to the sprouting medium. I believe that the omega-3s are used up in fueling the growth of the seedling. On the other hand, Vitamin C levels increase in most sprouts.

 

For more information about chia seeds, and some recipe ideas, check out my website: <a ref="http://www.chiativity.org"> www.chiativity.org </a>

 

 

Anonymous
disha
5/11/09 11:09pm

i attended a health talk about chia seed (Salba) and its benefit. the company i am attached with is about to put this product as an item into our online sales. it seems to have lots of benefit but how after ... i was not sure till i came across this web site..

keen to have this delivered .. email me

Anonymous
Chia-Al
7/ 6/09 12:08pm

Ding a quick search to buy chia on the internet, I've found prices ranging from $5 - $25 perppound. The Salba brand, being the most expensive - and others ranging from $5 -2 $20. Also there is white, black, chemical free and organic. In the article above, Coates says there is no organic chia, or need to use chemicals. What experience have people had with different brands? Is there any quality difference, or is all chia the same?

 

Also, what is a recommended daily quantity? It unds like some peole use more than an once or two a day, and some a few tablespoons.

David Mendosa, Health Guide
7/ 6/09 5:23pm

Dear Al,

 

Personally, I just shop for the best price and eat as much as I feel like.

 

Best regards,

 

David

7/ 7/09 12:07pm

There is virtually no..overdosing of fish oils.  That would be pretty hard to do.

The standard set by several medical groups is that two servings of Omega 3 rich

fish per week is more than sufficient and provides all one requres for a healthy diet.

One need not go out of their way to add to their diet other seeds or oils.

It is best to get these nutrients from the original source and not by using

supliments. 

Now the rage is Krill Oil or Chia seeds.  I would suggest it is better to allow the Krill to be consumed by whales and Chia seeds be made into Chia Pets.

What ever you do do it in moderation except for exercise and push it.  Exercise

evens out the playing field.

 

Anonymous
Ronny
9/17/09 7:48pm
If you don't want to eat'm, don't eat'm. Some of us (me) are looking for Omega-3 sources without eating animals. ALAs seem to be fairly easy to acquire from various plant sources, particularly Chia and Flax seeds. The long chain Omega-3s (EPA and DHA) seem to pose more of a challenge for us vegetarians. Still haven't found a great answer to this. So far algea oil supplements seem to be a possibility, but they are expensive and I'd prefer to get my nutrition from unprocessed sources....but I'm digressing here. David, your participation in this thread is impressive. Thanks for your continuing input.
10/23/10 10:30pm

Actually, chia should be looked at as a food, not a supplement because that is what it is, a food.  Whole, unprocessed, clean (at least mine is) natural food, just as almonds are a food.  Just sayin'.  :)

Anonymous
Anonymous
7/29/09 10:02pm

Try mixing chia seeds, wheat germ and agave syrop . Mix well and roll into balls. Yummy!

Anonymous
Coconut Girl
8/ 5/09 7:52pm

I am so grateful for chia seeds. I find myself feeling energy and nourishment for long periods of time even just having chia and water. Thank you for pointing out this amazing superfood. I make smoothies, pudding and even crackers with chia and I look forward to this easy to use in quick recipes. Its worth the highlight for all I believe. I love to blend other superfoods into chia recipes like hempseeds and goji berries. I get the best selection from www.OrganicBeautyFood.com

 

Thank you for sharing! Be well all.

 

 

Anonymous
harry stoskopf
9/ 5/09 5:36pm

I have  read a great deal abuot chia and I want to know the best place to buy it.

Anonymous
Anonymous
9/16/09 8:43pm
10/23/10 10:33pm

The best quality is at successtherapy.lifemax.net

Pure, unprocessed and clean without sticks, grass, other seeds, etc.

Anonymous
Anonymous
12/ 4/09 5:35pm

ChiaSeedsDirect.com website ordering experience was positive . . competitive pricing, fast shipping by priority mail, well packed, and include a next order 10% off code valid for about a month.  Ordered the 4.5 lbs white seeds.  On my scale the 3 lb bag weighed 3.00 lbs, and the 1.5 lb bag weighed 1.09 lbs.  My objective in ordering white was just an aesthetics experiment . . to reduce the black specs when blended with vanilla pudding.  But there are still around 10% black seeds mixed with the white, there is no nutritional difference, and the black seeds cost slightly less.


3 cups water

3 tablespoons chia seeds

3 tablespoons coconut oil (if solid microwave to liquefy)

1 pk Jello sugar-free pudding (usually less sodium that store brands)

6 ounces Kroger CarbMaster vanilla yogurt

 

Of course many other things can also be blended in . . peanuts, cinnamon, multi-vitamin and nutritional supplement tablets.  The mix can also be poured into popsicle molds.

Anonymous
PKL
1/14/10 1:25pm

It is extremely important to note that not all chia seeds are equal in nutritional value and that some have no nutritional value at all. I have been taking Mila, the special blend of chia seeds created specifically by Dr. Wayne Coates, the expert on chia. He is the scientist that rediscovered chia 19 years ago. His blend called Mila is superior and 99.9% of the nutritional value is absorbed by your body. One scoop contains 3,000 mg of Omega-3. It is also readly to eat, and has been presliced by a special machine also created by Dr. Coates for the best bioavailabilty. You must know what you are consuming, and as we all know, we are what we eat! You can order at www.phillipward.lifemax.net

Anonymous
Anonymous
1/19/10 11:14am

David, I would like to try the chia seeds.  I cannot find them locally.  Where do you purchase them at if you don't mind me asking?

David Mendosa, Health Guide
1/19/10 11:52am

Good question. Most recently I have been buying them from amazon.com

 

David

3/14/10 2:35pm

Been getting mine at nutsonline.com (but am always open to hearing about lower prices) email me with chia in subject line to be a 'referred' customer and get a discount on first order. heyjude17 at hotmail.com

3/14/10 2:36pm

whoops, make that heyjude71 not 17

Anonymous
Illini
3/23/10 9:08pm

I just found www.ChiaSeedsDirect.com. Good service and prices. I like the free shipping, as well.

10/23/10 10:36pm

Get the best quality at successtherapy.lifemax.net

no "trash" like grass, other seeds, weeds in this!

8/18/11 4:05pm

Yes, it's true that Dr. Wayne Coates developed Mila for Lifemax.  It's also true that they had a parting of the ways.  Perhaps due to the fact that Mila sells for $55 PER POUND!  Dr. Waye Coates sells his own identical chia on his website, azchia.com for around $9 per pound.  Get it from the master, not from a multi level marketing scheme.

Anonymous
DixHistory
4/14/10 4:24pm

Chia Seeds 2 Pounds (Chemical Free) Price: $11.75 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25. Details


Is this a good price on Amazon from The Raw Food World?

 

DixHistory: http://homepages.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~texdick/

5/13/10 12:36am

An open letter to all interested parties:

 

I, Wayne Coates, have either discussed or corresponded with many individuals regarding LifeMax and Mila.  I truly have enjoyed this interaction as my goal for last several years has been to spread the word about chia.   After researching chia for 19 years, I can honestly say it is the best whole food available today, and is a great source of omega3, fiber, antioxidants and protein.

 

The Wears, LifeMax owners, have accused me of breaking my consulting contract with them, but this is not true.  In fact, truth and basic philosophical differences with the LifeMax owners and staff had more to do with my termination than anything else.  I have tried to resolve these issues, but they have stopped communicating with me.  Also, unbeknownst to me, the Wears had been working with Dr. Bob Arnot for months to bring him into the fold, have him become the spokesman for chia, and replace me.

 

As I have had no direct interaction with their blending, processing or packaging operation since January, I cannot in good conscience endorse their product any longer.  I have asked that all references to me, use of the videos I have made, and photos of me be removed from all Lifemax sites, blogs, etc.

 

I believe that chia is a great product and its many benefits don't need embellishment of facts. I want all of you to know that I will continue with my chia research and development activities and will strive to increase the quality of chia available in the retail market today and work to improve production practices, so that chia prices can be kept as low as possible, making it readily available to the general public.  Please go to http://www.drcoateschia.com for information on chia and to keep up-to-date on chia’s availability.

 

Regards,

 

Wayne Coates

Anonymous
sissy maner
8/ 7/10 5:18pm

Wayne, why does the lifemax chia called Mila cost more than other chias?

8/ 9/10 11:19am

Sissy

 

It is a Network Marketing company, the idea is for you to make money when you sell the product or enlist other distributors, hence that is built into the price.


Wayne

8/18/11 4:03pm

I use the best chia on the market and it is the one that Wayne Coates sells on his website, azchia.com

5/14/10 3:04pm

my sister has been taking chai tea for about a year and it has lowered her alc sugnificantly she now is under very good control before she was was higher risk now all she has to do is diet and take her chai on a regular basis it has changed her life for the better.

8/ 2/10 2:31pm

I'm glad that more people are learning about this cool seed.  I actually buy mine from this survival store here Chia seeds

8/24/10 12:14am

Hi there,

 

I just found out about tha chia seeds about two weeks ago through a friend who sells the Lifemax version at $55 per one pound bag. I have read a little book about it and read this forum discussion. My question: is ther a difference between the Lifemax chia seeds and the ones everyone else is buying through getchia and other sites? Is it true that with the cheaper brands you get what you pay for? And lastly I read that the whole chia seeds are better, and since Lifmax seeds are processed  by some "secret patented method" do they still maintain all the omegas and other nutrients? By paying less am I getting less?

 

Ola

David Mendosa, Health Guide
8/24/10 11:56am

The Lifemax difference is that it is sold by a multi-level marketing company. That's what makes it so expensive.

 

David

10/23/10 10:41pm

The Lifemax Mila seeds are not "processed," only sliced open with no heat to maintain the goodness of the chia seeds (the best of the best) and improve bioavailability.  The Mila chia contains no grass, other seeds, trash, weeds, etc.

8/18/11 4:01pm

Yes, it's true that Dr. Wayne Coates developed Mila for Lifemax.  It's also true that they had a parting of the ways.  Perhaps due to the fact that Mila sells for $55 PER POUND!  Dr. Waye Coates sells his own identical chia on his website, azchia.com for around $9 per pound.  Get it from the master, not from a multi level marketing scheme.

Anonymous
cindy
10/ 2/10 12:10pm

i got 2 healthy origins at only $10 each!

http://www.iherb.com/Healthy-Origins-White-Chia-Seed-16-oz-454-g/13253?at=0

 

also use the coupon DUL435 when you checkout for a $5 discount! What!

 

Anonymous
Chiaaaa
12/ 3/10 4:44am

iHerb has a great white chia product. In december they offer -10 % and in addition you get -5$ when you use coupon code KON306!

 

http://www.iherb.com/Healthy-Origins-White-Chia-Seed-16-oz-454-g/13253?at=0

 

Check it out!

1/ 3/11 1:00am

I clean roofs in tampa and am exposed to high concentrations of chemicals. I eat Chia seeds to protect me, and because I am type 2 Diabetic. I make a Gel out of them, mix with Organic Lemon Juice and drink it.

4/20/11 4:30am

I DO NOT KNOW ALL THIS FUZZ ABOUT GETTING CHIA SEEDS  IN THE INTERNET...

ALL THE HEALTH FOOD STORES HAVE ALL KIND OF CHIAS....FROM SEEDS TO GEL, LIQUID, ETC...I BOUGHT .12 OZ OF THE SEEDS IN" WHOLE FOOD" STORES AT $6.99...AND IS FROM ""SPECTRUM ESSENTIALS"" AND HAS 2.4G OMEGA-3 PER 1 TBSP. IT IS FANTASTIC..I GO TO THE GYM 5 TIMES A WEEK AND I FEEL MUCH MORE ENERGY AND I NOTICE THAT MY FACE SKIN IT LOOKS YOUNGER AND LESS DRY......I LOVE IT....!!!! 

4/24/11 6:28am

I've been trying to find out how much fish oil to take in a day. Now I'm looking at adding Chia Seeds to my diet.

 

How much of each should I add to my diet?

6/28/12 2:18pm

We definitely have a lot of misinformation with these kinds of health products. I appreciate you clearing things up and giving us the right information. My neighbor has sever diabetes, and she has been thinking about trying organic chia seeds to see if they help her at all. I figure it couldn't hurt her at all. How long would someone want to take these for?  

Ask a Question

Get answers from our experts and community members.

Btn_ask_question_med
View all questions (3904) >
By David Mendosa, Health Guide— Last Modified: 04/21/13, First Published: 12/13/07