These tiny nutritious seeds were a staple for the Aztecs and Native American Indians.  Chia seeds were their power foods that gave them strength, endurance and sustained them nutritionally on long journeys.  What is it about this superfood that is so unique and essential?

On the nutritional side chia seeds are rich in protein (about 7g per serving), omega fatty acids, fiber, provides 35% calcium and 30% iron per serving!  Plus the list of nutrients they provide is extensive – you could live off of them for a long period of time if necessary.

Endurance & Energy:

On the unique side, chia seeds provide long lasting energy fuel and supply of electrolytes, keeping the body hydrated for long periods of time. It seems that nature created a food that can nourish, hydrate and energize the body specifically for long durations – the ideal athlete food! 

They are also the ideal workaholic food – sustained energy and nutrition without having to eat large quantities of food.  I would go further to say it is ideal for toddlers who are too busy playing to stop and eat and pregnancy, the time when your body needs the best absorbable nutrients and hydration.

It might seem strange that a seed can have so much power over your endurance levels but the more I research chia seeds the more I realize how similar they are to the affects that raw complex carbohydrates have on the body.  Complex carbs break down slowly, releasing small amounts of sugar to the body at a time.  Chia seeds have a similar affect.  When you soak chia seeds in water they create a gel-like texture which when eaten slows down the conversion of carbs into sugar, making them ideal for diabetics.  This slow conversion process creates sustained energy and keeps the body from energy crashing. 

Weight management:

The bonus is that soaked chia seeds help to lean out the waistline due to their ability to control carbohydrate absorption (you won’t store the carbs as fat); their ability to cleanse the colon; nourish the body, keeping it satisfied and less hungry (craving less sweets); clean out bad fats; give you more energy to exercise.   Chia seeds are simply filling.  Adding a few tablespoons of chia seeds or a few ounces of chia milk (see below) to smoothies or even oatmeal daily satisfies you for hours!  I have been making a chia porridge daily, adding it to smoothies or eating it plain and I feel full all day while having tons of energy.

I strongly recommend buying a bag of raw chia seeds and try using them the following ways:

1. Grind into a powder and add to already cooked oatmeal, cereal or sprinkled over salads, sauces, etc.
2. Soak about 1/3 cup of chia seeds to 2 cups water and let sit for at least 1 hour (stir it a few times the first 5 minutes).  Do not drain.  It will create a thick gelatin-like consistency which will keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks (it has no flavor so don’t worry).  Don’t be grossed out by the texture.  I like to add fresh coconut water and raw coconut pudding to it and eat as porridge.  Other days I add 3 Tbsp of the Chia Gel to a smoothie with young thai coconuts, green superfoods, fruit and blend it up.  It is delicious and fills me up without weighting me down!
3. You can even use the Chia gel as a raw thickener for raw sauces, dressings, soups, dips, etc.
4. Chia Milk:  Take the chia gel (2 cups water to 1/3 cup chia seeds) and blend on high for 1-2 minutes.  Be sure not to strain the water – you might want to add extra water to thin the milk.  You can sweeten it and add cinnamon or vanilla because this milk has no flavor.  I love to add 3-4 ounces of chia milk to my daily green drinks – amazing energy and very filling!

*Reference: www.integratedhealth.com

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