My quickie response to that question would be, because they are an easy way to incorporate essential fatty acids, especially Omega 3s. See the Geeky Science Answer below if you want more info. If not, jump right to the post on Acai Berry Jam and start incorporating these healthful seeds to your diet. I am particularly fond of Chia Seeds because, like flax seeds, they have three times more Omeg 3s than 6s (which, as you’ll find in the geeky science answer, is GOOD). Unlike flax, they do not add a distinct flavor. Once soaked, these bland seeds make a gooey concoction that makes a perfect replacement for the pectin and massive sugar used in most jams. They bring added nutritional benefits to the table as well since they contain 11% protein and are a good source of calcium, fiber, and manganese.
GEEKY SCIENCE ANSWER:
Alpha Linolenic Acid (ALA), an omega 3 fatty acid, is one of the two essential fatty acids our bodies need but cannot make (thus the fancy title “essential” because we must consume them). The other essential fatty acid is Linoleic Acid, an omega 6 fatty acid. The Standard American Diet (S.A.D.) is ridiculously high in Omega 6s which are found in the oils used in processed foods (canola, soybean, cottonseed, corn and safflower oils), but it is shockingly and problematically low in omega 3s. What compounds the issue of excessive ratio of Omega 6’s to Omega 3’s is that they are metabolized by the same enzymes. That means the enzymes, which are the catalysts for both these acids to be broken down in and used in the formation of the other fatty acids are a hot commodity! Since the Omega 3’s are far out numbered by 6s, they are less likely to access these enzymes.
Q: How do I get more Omega 3s and less 6s so I have a healthy ratio??
A: That’s easy! I eat little or no animal products and incorporate Chia Seeds, Hemp Seeds, and Flax seeds into my diet. A largely plant-based diet tends to naturally have a healthy balance of Omega 3s to Omega 6s because fresh fruits and veggies have equal amounts and leafy greens have more 3s than 6s.
Here is a nutritional profile for Chia Seeds
Here is the link to the Chia Seeds I buy from Amazon.
[...] Seeds are high in Omega 3s, a source of easily digested protein, iron, calcium, and fiber (see a complete post on benefits of Chia Seeds by clicking here). The act as a natural gelling agent that forms the mixture into a [...]