Chia Pets are making a comeback in a big way, and it’s not for the reasons you might expect.  I know I had a Chia Pet when I was a kid, so when I saw the stories about them recently I thought maybe they were cool again.  I was pleasantly surprised when I heard that not only are Chia Pets good fun, but they are good for YOU!  Yes, I’m talking about eating Chia Seeds.

Chia Seeds have been a longtime secret in the health food world.  Not only are they a whole grain seed, but they pack a punch of nutritional necessities.  These little seeds are full of anti-oxidants, fiber rich, Omega 3’s and protein all in one.   They are so fiber rich in fact, that two tablespoons gives you 7 grams of fiber, 4 grams of protein and 205 milligrams of calcium!

According to Dr. Andrew Weil, when the seeds sit in water for 30 minutes, they turn into a gel which forms a reaction in the stomach.  This reaction slows the process by which digestive enzymes break down carbohydrates and turn them into sugars.  Also, this will curb your appetite and make you feel full.

The seeds have a nutlike taste, and can really be incorporated into anything.  You can mix seeds in water and add lime or lemon juice and sugar to make a drink known in Mexico and Central America as “chia fresca.” As with ground flax seeds, you can sprinkle ground or whole chia seeds on cereal, in yogurt or salads, eat them as a snack, or grind them and mix them with flour when making muffins or other baked goods.

Chia seeds can be found in upscale grocery stores and online.  Remember; don’t eat your Chia Pet though!!  Those seeds are industrial grade and are not for consumption!

To purchase Chia seeds, visit Nuts Online.

-Jessica Brown