Ch-Ch-Ch Chia!

If you’re really looking to take your health to the next level than look no further, chia seeds are it.

Yep, chia seeds. The same seeds that spawned thousands of quirky chia pet gifts are the very things us health foodies are telling you to ingest today.

Why?

Because these little seeds target so many issues that constantly come up for my clients such as:

* Fiber – hello everybody needs to poop!
* Energy – good enough for Mayan warriors, good enough for me
* Nutrients and minerals – these guys are LOADED

So what exactly are chia seeds? They are a small seed that is from Central Mexico and South Americas. They originated as a staple crop of the Mayan and Aztec people who traditionally used the seeds in medicine. The indigenous warriors would also ingest the seeds before long runs for sustained natural energy.

Chia seeds are also one of the richest sources of Omega-3’s. Omegas protect against inflammation in the body such as arthritis and heart disease. Chia seeds even contain more Omega-3 than salmon! Additionally, add enough healthy omegas to your diet and watch your brain function and focus improve. Goodbye ADD! They also contain protein and a TON of fiber – 1 tablespoon has 5 grams of fiber and 2 grams of protein!

Even our beloved Dr. Oz and Dr. Andrew Weil know what’s up with chia seeds:
* Dr. Oz says, “They just may be one of the healthiest things around.”
* And Dr. Weil said, “A healthful and interesting addition to my diet. My prediction? You will begin to see chia being added to more and more commercial products, such as prepared baby foods, nutrition bars, and baked goods.”

Another fun bonus of chia seeds? They expand in your stomach and help you feel full. Yup, I said that right. They help you feel full. When added to liquid the seeds expand to ten times their size! Cool, right? They are super hydrating for the body (great for workouts and marathoners) and are loaded with antioxidants and minerals such as potassium, calcium and magnesium.

Chia seeds are also very user friendly. The little seeds (about the size of a poppy seed) are tasteless so you can simply add them to smoothies or your morning bowl of oats or cereal. You can even add them to a little water or 100% juice and make a chia shot! They are great for travel as they require no refrigeration and can help when you need a little healthy digestive tract insurance.

But my favorite use of chia seeds? Pudding. Healthy and delicious, chia seed pudding is super satisfying and super filling. It’s a great treat totally suitable for nighttime or even for breakfast!

Enjoy this chia pudding recipe and get your ch-ch-chia on!

Chia Seed Tapioca

Recipe Courtesy of {Healthy} Cooking Camp’s 5-in-5 Cookbook

To download yours visit healthycookingcamp.com
This is a great breakfast or dessert dish. It’s super simple and full of protein.

Ingredients

2 1/2 to 3 cups milk (almond, rice, soy or cow’s)
1/2 cup chia seeds
2-3 Tablespoons natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey
1 Tbsp alcohol free vanilla extract
½ teaspoon of cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
¼ teaspoon salt

Directions

Combine all ingredients in a container and let sit until the chia seeds puff up (around 10 minutes) or place in fridge overnight.

Serve with sliced fruit (fresh berries or bananas) or some cacao.