Chia seeds come from the desert plant Salvia hispanica, a member of the mint family that grows abundantly in southern Mexico.  In pre-Columbian times, they were a main component of the Aztec and Mayan diets and were the basic survival ration of Aztec warriors.  Chia seeds are an excellent source of omega 3 fatty acids, protein, fiber, phosphorus, magnesium, manganese, copper, iron niacin and zinc.

Chia seeds have a nutty flavor.  You can sprinkle ground or whole chia seeds on cereal, in yogurt or salads.  Eat them as a snack, or grind them and mix them with flour when making muffins or other baked goods.