Find Your Inner Chia
October 8, 2009
As quickly as handbags are changing on 5th Avenue…or CEO’s changing on Wall Street, health trends cycle through alpha super foods by the minute. Now taking the place of Flax Seeds, the Chia Seed includes 30% Omega 3 oil (linked to providing protection against cardiovascular disease, arthritis and depression) and 40% Omega 6 oil (associated with promoting healthy skin, hair and nails ), both working at their optimal levels when combined together. Most important for athletes, the Chia Seed is highly hydrophilic, meaning that it absorbs large amounts of water…in this case, over 10 times its weight in water. Easily digestible, you won’t need to grind or blend the seed unlike last season’s Flax (which passes right through if eaten whole). Their subtle taste and texture make Chia Seeds a great ingredient for cooking or baking. I just found a recipe for Chia muffins which I’m going to try to mix with a whole wheat banana bread recipe. Alternatively, you can add to smoothies, protein shakes, pudding, salad dressings or anything else that needs an extra punch. Aside from all of its other positive attributes, Chia Seeds are attractive to athletes and hikers (originally favored by the ancient Aztec warriors) thanks to their energy increasing properties, enhancing stamina and endurance. Get a bag of seeds, be creative – and find you’re inner chia!
