Chia Power

No, this post is not about these guys (as much as I love the furry little fellas)

But rather, about these guys:

 

 

CHIA SEEDS

 





What I formerly believed to be a 'weird hippie food' type of thing, has turned into one of my favorite ingredients! Since I have been taking this online nutrition class I have started on a bit of a health kick. Notice I said 'a bit' I haven't given up my Diet Dr. Pepper or french fries or anything! Don't panic. But I have become rather interested in developing a healthier eating pattern.

Also you should know I work as a therapy aid at a rehab and nursing facility and so I see the repercussions of bad health habits in our patients every single day.

So between the class and my job I have realized I need to start being better.

Enough side tracking though, back to the chia seeds. Apparently they are considered one of those 'super foods'. Like kale, for instance. One tablespoon of these little puppies equals 20% of your daily fiber. So for people like me, who find themselves constipated all the time because they never eat enough fiber, this is like the holy grail of all foods. Another cool thing about them is that the longer they sit in liquid the squishier and bigger they get! They are incredibly absorbant and so they make great puddings and work well in smoothies and oatmeals. They are also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for a healthy metabolism.

Here is a link to my current favorite recipe that includes chia seeds:

http://www.theyummylife.com/Refrigerator_Oatmeal

This overnight refrigerator oatmeal is delicious, delicious, delicious and the website includes all sorts of different flavors for it! My favorites have been the peach melba and the chocolate banana!

The only downside to chia is that like most health foods, they are expensive. I bought a little bag for like 12 bucks at Good Earth, but really even a 12 oz bag is gonna last you a long time because you aren't supposed to use cups and cups of it. You just throw on a teaspoon here and there to all your favorite recipes, and that is really all you need to enjoy the benefits of it.

Next I want to try quinoa! Has anyone had any success with cooking with this ingredient? Let me know your experiences.

Whoever is interested in starting healthier eating habits and really just a healthier lifestyle I recommend the blog - Undressed Skeleton. I came across it on pinterest one day and it is absolutely amazing. It is written by a girl who struggled with being overweight her whole teenage life and was made fun of horribly for it. Her blog is about her road to weight loss and good health and how she maintains it! Her story is truly amazing. Go check it out!

http://undressedskeleton.tumblr.com/mystory