The Amazing Cha-Cha-Chia Seed

I think we all remember the famous Cha-Cha-Cha Chia pets! I remember when I was little, getting one for Christmas and being so excited to make the seed paste, paint it on the body of my little animal and watch it grow. What fun! Some 15 years later, the pets are out and the chia seed is in. First a plant and now a food...What's so great about this little seed anyway? 

Chia seeds have been gaining popularity over the past few years as a great supplement to add to a drink, cereal, pudding, you name it. I had never really been all that interested, until my nearest and dearest friend Susanna started posting about her chia seed lemonade and even homemade chia seed jam. On my next trip to Trader Joes, (yes, TJ's started carrying chia seeds!) I decided it was time to jump on the band wagon and o. m. gee I'm happy I did! 

Chia seeds boost amazing properties such as:

• Omega Fatty Acids: Chia is one of the most highly concentrated forms of omega 3 fatty acids. Rich in Omega 3 and 6, everyone needs to consume fatty acids to help build new cells, reduce inflammation, and support healthy brain chemistry. Externally, these omegas will help with beautiful skin, hair and nails. 
• Fiber: One key for weight loss and digestion, Fiber helps slow digestion and makes you feel fuller by soaking up fluid and expanding in your digestive tract. 
• Protein: Chia contains more protein than most any other seed or grain: good fats + protein  = dieters dream

And that's just to name a few, this amazing superfood also has extremely high levels of calcium, antioxidants and B vitamins. It helps with weight loss, diabetes, heart disease, bone health, digestive disorders.... do I need to go on? Basically, I started adding chia seeds to my normal diet and I am already reaping the results. I've felt fuller, have had reduced sugar cravings, and let's just say they're very cleansing. It's so easy to add to a drink, oatmeal, dessert etc etc. I even added them to some homemade popsicles mmmm hmmm (more on those later this week). Time to Cha-Cha-Cha-Chia!! xo

PS. If you're lucky enough to stumble upon a Chia Pet, don't eat the seeds. Not only will your pet be very sad & bald, but like all of your food, buy organic, good quality chia!