Salba – The Next Generation Chia Seed

What is Salba? Salba is a variety of Chia and is grown in Peru for the most part, whereas original Chia is typically grown in Mexico. It is a registered trademark, and is extensively marketed as providing more health benefits than other varieties of Chia. Mexico grown Chia is typically farmed under GMO farming, with extensive use of pesticides, and engages in poor employee practices. Salba is available conventionally or organically grown, but conventional is basically organic anyhow since there is no use of fertilizers to grow it.

Nutritional Benefits:

Salba is promoted as having the following nutritional benefits:

• A good source of Omega 3 fatty acids

• A good source of fiber

• A good source of calcium

• A good source of potassium

• A good source of antioxidants

• A good source of iron & Zinc

• A good source of magnesium & phosphorus

• A good source of protein

• Contains no Trans-fats

• Contains few carbohydrates

• Contains no sugar

• A source of some B Vitamins & Vitamin C

Other Benefits:

• Certified non-GMO

• Vegan

• Kosher

• Gluten-Free

A serving of Salba is approximately 1.5 tablespoons per day. Consuming more than this recommended daily serving may cause nutritional imbalances in the body.

How to Eat Salba:

Much like, flax, wheat germ, and other “Superfoods”, Salba can be added to many meals and does not contain any specific taste so it easily compliments many dishes. Salba can be consumed raw, whole or ground, and no cooking is required.

Salba can be added to the following:

• Shakes & smoothies

• Yogurts

• Fruit or vegetable salads

• Soups

• Cereal

• Pasta, rice, etc.

• Baked Goods

Salba should be stored in a cool, dry place. Refrigeration is not required.

Medicinal Uses:

Salba has health benefit and medicinal patents. It is promoted for the following medicinal purposes:

• Diabetes: helps stabilize blood glucose levels

• Heart Disease: Omega 3 fatty acids in Salba decrease inflammation in the body that could damage vessels and result in heart disease

• Hypertension: Decreases blood pressure in some people.

Patients who take blood thinning medications, medications for the heart, or any other medications should consult with their doctor before consuming Salba.

Mothers, Babies, & Children

Salba is considered safe for pregnant and lactating women. It may help prevent post-partum depression. Salba is also a source of folate required for proper development of the baby’s spine, brain, and skull during pregnancy.

Salba can help provide nutrients for children that they may otherwise not be getting in sufficient quantities. Although Salba is considered safe for children, always consult with your pediatrician prior to adding any supplementation to your child’s diet.

Some Risk Factors:

• There is a link between people who are allergic to mustard or sesame seeds with allergies related to Salba.

• Salba may cause gastrointestinal discomfort such as cramps and constipation – drinking water may help provide constipation

As with any nutritional “Superfood”, it is generally advised to consult with your pediatrician and doctor prior to adding it to your diet. Adding Salba to a nutritionally incomplete diet may provide a needed boost, but it is also wise to have a look at your overall diet and see how it could be improved in other ways as well!