In The Magic of Chia, authority James F. Scheer details the seed's abundant nutrients: calcium, amylose (a slow-burning starch helpful for hypoglycemics), a vast array of vitamins and minerals, and an unusually good ratio of omega-3 oil to omega-6 oil. The book reintroduces this wonder food to the modern palate, with numerous tested recipes for using chia to upgrade the nutritional value of hamburgers, soups, salads, breads, fruit drinks, and much more. Included is the never before told story about the twenty-year program to domesticate the wild chia and, for the first time in modern history, grow it in large enough quantities to supply the U.S. and world markets.

"Jim Scheer has been one of my favorite nutrition reporters and editors for more than twenty years because he is always at the forefront of nutritional research analysis. Now he has written a fascinating book on the health benefits of chia. Everyone should read this new book about this old food that has become available once again."—Richard A. Passwater, Ph.D."The combined effect (of desert foods such as chia, cholla, and mesquite) is to prevent wide swings in blood sugar, slow down the digestive process, and delay the return of hunger."—Jane E. Brody, from her New York Times article, "Desert's Bounty Beats Overweight and Diabetes""James Scheer has unlocked the secrets of the magic of chia. Through easy-to-use recipes, he tells us how to discover the magic in this ancient, natural, and healthy food."—Dr. Earl Mindell, author of The Vitamin Bible, Herb Bible, and Prescription Alternatives