Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are an ancient super food. Chia means “strength” in the language of the Mayans, and was considered running food because messengers could run all day with the help of these tiny seeds.  Chia seeds were considered medicine and they had more value than gold due to their incredible health enhancing properties. Chia seeds are high in fiber and healthy oils making them an excellent addition to many detox programs. Who knew that such a tiny seed could be so powerful?

Health Benefits

• Prevents indigestion and heartburn without risk of harmful side effects.
• Blood sugar stabilizer.
• Satisfying hunger faster.
• Aids in weight loss.
• Hydrophilic properties.
  • Chia Seeds can absorb over 10 times their weight in water making them a great enhancer in hydrating our bodies.

Nutritional Benefits

An ounce of chia seeds contains 137 calories and will get you four grams of protein and 11 grams of fiber.

• Healthy Omega -3 fatty acid, also known as ALA.
  • Chia seeds have the highest content of this essential oil.
• Protein
  • Chia seeds are a complete source of protein. They have two times the protein of any other seed or grain.
• Fiber
  • They are fabulous colon cleansers and clear out the digestive tract so that you absorb more nutrients and eliminate waste more efficiently.

• Excellent source of iron
  • Chia seeds have three more times of iron than spinach.
• Powerful antioxidant

• Magnesium

• Calcium
  • These tiny seeds are packed with calcium, and they also contain boron which is a trace mineral that helps calcium get into your bones.

Tips

There’s a right way and wrong way to eat chia seeds. Chia seeds should be soaked before you consume them. If you eat them dry, you can experience difficulty in swallowing them. You can add them to a smoothie, yogurt or a muffin.

Recipe 

I am sharing with you a sneak peek into my Fall  “Getting on Track” program. It was HOT this summer and as a result, our body builds up toxins leading to coughs, rashes, and a weakened immune system. Look for details on my Facebook and Twitter.

Cold Chia Pudding

Makes 1 serving

1/2 cup of canned coconut milk

 1/2 cup of water

One teaspoon vanilla extract

½ teaspoon ginger powder

Two tablespoon maple syrup

1/4 cup chia seeds

One tablespoon unsweetened coconut flakes

Apples or Berries to top

Sprinkle with cinnamon (optional)

There is a quick version and an “overnight” version. I prefer the overnight version as the spices and seeds soak up the “tastes.” For both versions mix the preferred milk, water, vanilla extract, ginger powder, and maple syrup in a serving bowl. Next, add chia seeds. Allow the chia seeds to soak up the liquid water for about 5 to 7 minutes (quick version) or overnight. Stir well and top with the fruit, unsweetened coconut flakes and sprinkle with cinnamon.

HAVE AN EXCELLENT DAY!