Benefits of Chia

The Benefits of Chia Seed
The United States had a diet problem. It seems that at any given time almost everyone I know is on a “diet”. But they are no eating the right diet. Research shows that more than two thirds of all deaths in the United States are diet related. More than 50% of all deaths are caused from coronary occlusion, blockage of the blood flow to the heart and/or the brain. These are all preventable deaths according to the Journal of American Medical Association. Everyone has there opinion on what they think are the right foods to eat and what diet is the best. The Zone diet, The South Beach Diet, the Hawaiian Diet, the Atkins Diet… the list goes on and on. How about the God diet? As in if God made it and it is edible than you can eat it, but be smart about it.
Today I am going to share with you some information I found about Chis seeds. Yes, as in Chia Pet, who knew? The Chia seed was once valued so much it was used as currency. This tiny little seed was used as a staple food by the Indians of the south west and Mexico. It was nicknamed the running food because of the energy it produces. We know that we need sustainable carbs for energy, especially long distance/high endurance sports. It was said the Aztec warriors ate Chia to give them energy during battle.
Chia is filled with soluble fiber. In fact if left in a glass of water it will have the same reaction as if you left a Tablespoon of Benefiber in the glass, it thickens. We know that fiber not only keeps us regular but slows down the break down of carbohydrates into sugar by the body. This keeps our boodsugar stable and controls hunger. A benefit of those with blood sugar issues and those looking to lose a few pounds
Another amazing benefit is it’s ability to hold water. When eating it means that a little will go along way, much like Cream of Wheat or other similar grains. This also means it provides prolonged hydration. This is an important quality to athletes and those living in warmer climates. Water is needed to break down carbohydrates for fuel. Without water an athletes’ performance is significantly reduced. This is also true for those living in warmer climates. We have all been dehydrated. It is tiring and uncomfortable. By eating foods that have a high water content we prolong our ability to withstand high temperatures.
Chia is also an excellent source of protein. This is important for those on a Vegetarian diet. Protein is needed to regenerate muscles after they are broken down due to stress of use. This could be caused by working out or from a physically strenuous job or even a day of moving.
Chia is the richest vegetables source for the essential omega-3 fatty acid. These oils are the essential oils your body needs to help absorb the fat soluble vitamins, A, D, E, & K. This unsaturated fatty acid is important for respiration of and makes it easier for oxygen to be transported by the blood stream to all cells, tissues, and organs.
Chia can be added to your daily diet quite easily. You can search hundreds of recipes on line. Here is one of my favoriates I found.
Chia Vegetable Stir Fry
Ingredients:
1/2 teaspoon olive oil
2 tablespoons dry chia seed
1-2 tablespoons ginger root (minced)
3-4 garlic cloves (finely chopped)
1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
3 tablespoons tamari
1-2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar (optional)
3/4 cup water (filtered)
2-4 cups kale (coarsely chopped)
2 carrots (thinly sliced)
1/2 onion (sliced)
1/2 bell pepper (thinly sliced)
3 oz mushrooms (your choice)
2 tomatoes (chopped)
5 cups cooked brown rice (or brown basmati rice)
Directions: In a large wok or skillet, saute ginger & onion in oil over medium heat until softened (approximately 3 minutes). Add tamari, rice wine vinegar, and water. Stir fry for additional 3 minutes. Add vegetables, garlic, tomatoes, and chia seeds. Cover and cook for 10 minutes or until vegetables are tender, but still firm. Stir occasionally. Serve over rice.
I also drink mine. As everyone know I am a huge fan of Shakeology. Chia is one of the many wonderful ingredients found in Shakeology.