Should you be concerned about diabetes? Consider this: 23.6 million people in the U.S. have diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association. And a whopping 57 million Americans have pre-diabetes. So, yes, you should be concerned. And one way you can keep yourself healthy is by adding salba to your grocery list.

Salba (Salvia hispanica), better known as chia, is a member of the mint family. Most people think of this herb only in connection with the Chia Pet, a novelty gift item that’s been on the market since the ’80s. But now it’s getting recognition as a sugar-balancing superfood.

A recent study published in Diabetes Care gave 20 diabetics either 37 grams/day of salba seeds or wheat bran for 12 weeks while maintaining their current diabetes protocols. At the end of the study, the participants eating salba saw a significant reduction in systolic blood pressure, as well as a reduction in dangerous C-reactive protein - two risk factors that increase the odds of developing cardiovascular disease, especially for those with diabetes.

In addition to salba’s high fiber content, it is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, a good source of calcium, low-carb, and naturally gluten-free.

Use salba just as you would flaxseed - grind and add to baked goods and yogurt, or sprinkle whole over salads and stir into soups for a healthy “pop” of powerful nutrients.

[Ed. Note: Long before pharamaceutical companies started trying to make a buck, Mother Nature was serving up her own medications. Salba is just one natural food that can help you feel better. For more on the foods you should be eating to be healthier and live longer, sign up for ETR's natural health e-letter. Get your free subscription here.
And for an all-natural dessert that tastes devilishly delicious, try nutrition expert Kelley Herring's special chocolate cake. Find out how you can get a slice right here.]

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