Ch-ch-ch-chiaaa comes from the Aztec word "chian" meaning oily, which helps describe its gelatinous texture. Chia seeds are packed full of healthy omega-3 fatty acids including alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). ALA is an essential fatty acid, which means the body cannot produce it and it must be consumed in our diet. Omega-3 fats help reduce inflammation in our bodies and maintain blood and cell membrane fluidity. Therefore, our bodies can deliver nutrients, remove waste, and communicate more efficiently. It is incredibly important that we include quality fats in our diet so our nervous system can function properly too. Messages from the brain to the rest of our body are completely dependent upon the myelin sheath, which is made up primarily of fat. Be sure to include foods like avocado, raw nuts, coconut oil, and chia seeds in your diet to keep your cells young and your brain wise.
Ingredients:
8 tablespoons chia seeds
4 cups water
Soak chia seeds in water at room temperature overnight. Add a couple of your favourite toppings (cranberries, walnuts, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, shredded coconut, cacao nibs, pecans, almond milk, cinnamon, figs, apricots, hemp seeds, cashews, apples, banana, berries, etc.) and enjoy with those you love.
Serves 4
References
- Mateljan, G. (2007). The world’s healthiest foods. Seattle: George Mateljan Foundation.
- The Livestrong Foundation. (2013). Retrieved from http://www.livestrong.com.