Page 25 - BBC - The Scientific Guide to a Healthier You
P. 25
DIET
INFLATED Over recent years, chia – a variety of mint – has broken out of those
novelty pet-shaped plants to become a miracle food. It’s a complete
protein with all the amino acids required to build muscle, plus more
HEALTH omega-3 than salmon and more fibre than flaxseed, as well as being
rich in antioxidants and minerals. Indeed, cheerleaders of chia claim
BENEFITS you could eat it and nothing else.
“It’s a good example of how companies and distributors promote the
mystique and magical health benefits that go way beyond the science,”
The chia seed is a good says Prof David Nieman, director of the Human Performance Labs at
Appalachian State University in North Carolina. “We conducted several
example of how claims randomised human trials showing that chia seeds provide good nutrition
about superfoods can and can be included in a healthy eating pattern that over time – along with
physical activity and weight management – is consistent with good
grow out of all proportion health. But there’s nothing quick or miraculous about them.”
BBC SCIENCE FOCUS MAGAZINE COLLECTION 25
