Chia Seeds

Gelatinous Chia Seeds

Chia seed is an ancient superfood – the little black and white seeds were once a staple of the Incan, Mayan and Aztec cultures.

"Chia" is actually the Mayan word for strength. The seeds were used by these ancient cultures as mega-energy food, especially for their running messengers, who would carry a small pouch of it with them.

Chia seeds are said to have:

• 2 x the protein of any other seed or grain,
• 5 x the calcium of milk, plus boron which is a trace mineral that helps transfer calcium into your bones,
• 2 x the amount of potassium as bananas,
• 3 x the reported antioxidant strength of blueberries,
• 3 x more iron than spinach, and
• copious amounts of omega-3 and omega-6, which are essential fatty acids

They are a complete source of protein, providing all the essential amino acids in an easily digestible form. They are also a fabulous source of soluble fiber. The seeds absorb water and create a mucilaginous gel – they can hold 9-12 times their weight in water and they absorb it very rapidly - in under 10 minutes. Making it perfect to add to smoothies, oatmeal and the like. But they really have no flavor, so sometimes I will just take a tablespoon and swallow it down.

Some of the benefits of Chia are more energy, boosts strength, bolsters endurance, levels blood sugar, helps in weight loss and aids intestinal regularity. I definitely noticed that it helps me with the latter!

To make a basic chia gel, simply add 1/3 cup of seeds (2oz) to 2 cups of water. Stir the mixture well, to avoid clumping, then leave it in your fridge, in a sealed jar. This will yield around 17oz of chia gel and will last about three weeks.

We get our Chia Seeds at Whole Foods, but you can order them online as well.