Sally Sunday Smoothie using Chia

Some call these the Ancient Food of the Future. Chia is a high energy endurance food recorded as far back as the ancient Aztecs and was known as the running food. Aztec warriors subsisted on the Chia seed during the conquests. Indians running from the Colorado River to the California coast to trade turquoise for seashells would only bring the Chia seed for their nourishment.

Mix 1 tsp of Chia in 1/2 glass of water. In 15 minutes a gel will be created. This reaction is due to the soluble fiber. Researchers believe this gel forming takes place in the stomach and can create a physical barrier between carbs and digestive enzymes that break them down, thus slowing the conversion of carbohydrates into sugar.

As well as being great for diabetics, it can create endurance. Carbs are the fuel for energy. Prolonging their conversion into sugar stabilizes metabolic changes, diminishing the spikes and troughs creating a longer duration in their fueling affects.

Chia can absorb more than 9 times its weight in water. This can prolong hydration and help support the life of all the body's cells. With Chia seed, you retain moisture and regulate more efficiently, the body's absorption of nutrients and body fluids.

Chia has a high oil content and is the richest vegetable source for the essential omega-3 fatty acid. It has up to 10 times the oil of most grains and up to twice the protein. These oils, unsaturated fatty acids, are essential oils your body needs to absorb fat soluble vitamins like A, D, E & K. Chia ar rich in linoleic, which the body cannot manufacture. Chia is also a rich source of calcium and the mineral boron, which can aid the absorption and use of calcium.

Chia can also be a dieters dream food. The seed will absorb 9 times its weight in water in less than 10 minutes and is very simple to prepare. The seed's water absorbing cells hold the water, so when it is mixed with foods, it displaces calories and fat, without diluting flavor. 

Chia gel can also work as a fat replacement for many recipes. Put 1 Tbsp of Chia Seed in a resealable glass container, add 3/4 C water briskly mixing to avoid clumping of the seed. Wait 2-3 minutes, whisk again and let stand for 10 minutes. Whisk again before using or storing in the refrigerator (keep up to two weeks). You can add this mix to jams, jellies, hot or cold cereals, yogurts, mustard, tomato or other sauces. Add between 50 - 75% by volume to any of the non-baked mentioned foods, mixing well, to taste. You should notice a smooth texture with the integrity of the flavor intact. Use as a fat replacement by substituting 50% or more of the oil in your baking with Chia gel. It is low fat and healthy. With many benefits.

Credit: Deb Porte Bobier