I think everyone is already fully aware of my obsession with the Chia seed (see October 8 post) but let’s face it, this is too good to only talk about once.  Although they’re great to use in baking and smoothie recipes, the easiest way to get my fill is through Chia energy bars (chocolate flavored of course). 

Greens+ makes an Omega 3 Chia Energy Bar which is my absolute favorite pre-run snack (usually eat 45 minutes before heading out).  Omega 3 Chia fiber is said to slow the absorbtion of sugar into the bloodstream, binding it to toxins in the digestive system to eliminate as waste (sounds too good to be true…).  Regardless of what kind of magic Greens+ claims to put into their bars, I have to admit that I log my best (read as fastest and strongest) runs after my daily fill.  The Chia seed, absorbing ten times its weight in water, also helps to keep me well hydrated on longer runs.  One note of warning – check your teeth after eating a bar - the seeds stick to EVERYTHING…and you never know who  you’ll RUN into.

An entire holiday that revolves around snack size candy bars seems pretty ideal to me.  I know, I know…Halloween is about MORE than just Mini Snickers but for me…let’s face it, I celebrate for the sugar rush.  This year I’m trying to shed a slightly healthier focus on October 31st by befriending Mr. Jack (‘O Lantern) for some added nutritional value.

Pumpkin seeds are a great source of minerals including magnesium (92% of your daily value in 1/2 cup)  zinc, iron and copper as well as protein (78% of your daily value) and vitamin K.  The seeds are most commonly associated with promoting overall prostate health (men, eat up!), protecting against osteoporosis and acting as a natural anti-inflammatory.  I use them to add texture and color to whole wheat cookies, muffins and breads or eat solo with a little salt.

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!