Chia seeds are well known as a true functional superfood - both nutrient dense and low in calories. Chia seeds are a rich source of fiber, protein, essential fatty acids, vitamins essential amino acids, and antioxidants. Chia is the richest source of plant based omega-3 fatty acids and is also high in calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, iron, and vitamin C.

The nutritional power of chia seeds was rediscovered in the late 20th century based on ancient Spanish documents about the Aztec civilization and a Mexican indian's running prowess. Aztec warriors reportedly carried small amounts of chia seeds with them during hunts and battles to give them energy and endurance. Running messengers would place several chia seeds in their mouths and let the seeds absorb saliva and swell in size until they became a gummy ball the runners could chew on for energy throughout the day.

Many marathon runners today use chia seeds for sustained energy as they race. In fact, it was a 52-year-old Tarahumara Indian from Mexico who won the LT100 Ultramarathon in 1993. He reportedly gave credit to eating chia seeds before and during the race. Chia seeds, ounce for ounce, are higher in essential omega 3 ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) than any other known food. Chia is also a great source of omega 6 fatty acids. Both omega 3 and 6 are known to be important for the healthy structure of brain, nerve and eye tissue. While other foods also contain omega 3 and 6, chia seeds are believed to have the best balance. Modern eating habits, including factory-farmed meats and refined carbohydrates, have many times more omega 6 than omega 3 fatty acids. That imbalance is believed to a major reason for many diseases suffered by people today.

KC Craichy, Founder & CEO of Living Fuel, was one of the first developers of superfood products to use chia seeds. "I chose to use chia seeds in our LivingFuel SuperGreens and SuperBerry meal replacement powders because chia seeds are one of nature's perfect foods," Craichy said. "Chia seeds contain essential fatty acids, protein, soluble fiber, protective antioxidants, minerals and vitamins. They provide energy, endurance and strength for the body."

Living Fuel also introduced CocoChia Sustained Energy Bars and CocoChia Snack Mix several years ago to give people a quick, easy and tasty way to use chia seeds for sustained energy during work, athletics and play.