I know - I know ! You are already cracking the Chia Pet Jokes BUT you are right in that they are the same seeds !
For centuries this tiny little seed was used as a staple food by the Indians of the south west and Mexico. Known as the "running food", its use as a high energy endurance food has been recorded as far back as the ancient Aztecs.
It was said the Aztec warriors subsisted on the Chia seed during the conquests. The Indians of the south west would eat as little as a teaspoon full when going on a 24hr. forced march. Indians running form the Colorado River to the California coast to trade turquoise for seashells would only bring the Chia seed for their nourishment.
If you try mixing a spoonful of Chia in a glass of water and leaving it for approximately 30 minutes or so, when you return the glass will appear to contain not seeds or water, but an almost solid gelatin. This gel-forming reaction is due to the soluble fiber in the Chia. Researchers believe this same gel-forming phenomenon takes place in the stomach when food containing these gummy fibers, known as mucilages, are eaten. The gel that is formed in the stomach creates a physical barrier between carbohydrates and the digestive enzymes that break them down, thus slowing the conversion of carbohydrates into sugar.
In addition to the obvious benefits for diabetics, this slowing in the conversion of carbohydrates into sugar offers the ability for creating endurance.
Carbohydrates are the fuel for energy in our bodies. Prolonging their conversion into sugar stabilizes metabolic changes, diminishing the surges of highs and lows creating a longer duration in their fueling effects.
Chia seeds are FULL of Omega-3 fatty acids, protein, dietary fiber and oil. They contain more then 3 times the amount of Omega 3 then Flaxseed !
Chia seeds can be eaten raw in salads or cereals. They can also be added to breads or muffins and cooked. Ground chia seeds can be added to foods as well.
You can buy Chia Seeds at Bulk Barn or any health food store. Some local grocery stores stock them in their health products aisle as well ! They are not cheap but a little goes a long way.
SO - here is your FIRST Chia Seed Recipe !!! PB & Strawberry Jam Sandwich !
For all of you PB&J lovers out there, here is a recipe that will promote fat loss, boost energy, and fend off soreness courtesy of Oxygen magazine (one of my all time favorite Fitness mags)
It is made with chia seeds with which 1 tbsp. contain 1.2 grams of ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), and is an anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acid. These tiny seeds are also packed with ...a good source of an endurance-boosting flavonoid called quercetin.
PB& Strawberry-chia Jam Sandwich
Enjoy!
"Inspire, Create, Motivate"
1/2 tbsp. chia seeds
2 oz. water
8 frozen strawberries, thawed
1/4 tsp. orange zest
1 slice whole-grain bread
1 tbsp. raw natural peanut butter or almond butter
1. combine chia seeds with water in a bowl and whisk vigorously for 30 seconds and set aside for 20 minutes until a gel is formed.
2. mash the strawberries with a fork, and add the orange zest, mix together.
3. combine gel chia seeds with the strawberries.
4. spread 1 tablespoon of nut butter on slice of toast, and add 2 tablespoons of jam.
