You learn something new every day here at Healthy Fit for Women. For example, today we learned Chi- Chi- Chia pets from the 80s were actually sprouting from an amazing edible seed full of nutrients and antioxidants!

The chia Seed is an edible seed grown in Mexico, and can actually be traced back to the diets of ancient Mayans and Aztecs and now it’s making a comeback as an easy way to add in a number of healthy benefits to almost any meal.

These little seeds, which have a slightly nutty flavor, are high in Omega 3 fatty acids and fiber, and are also a source of protein, calcium, and have more antioxidants than blueberries. In addition, unlike flax seeds, which go rancid and have to be ground before being added to food, chia seeds are ready to eat, and can last up to two years.

One ounce of chia seed contains: 

• 139 calories
• 4 grams of protein
• 9 grams of fat (healthy fat)
• 12 grams of carbs
• 11 grams of fiber

There is also some school of thought that because of the seeds high fiber content, that it can leave one feeling more fuller, for longer after a meal, however, there are no studies that prove that they should be used a weight-loss tool.

The authors of  You Staying Young recommend 2 daily doses consisting of 20 grams — or a little less than 2 tbsp. So how can YOU add chia seeds to your diet? Well let us count the ways…

You can sprinkle some on your…

• Oatmeal
• Cereal
• Yogurt
• Vegetables

You can stir them into your

• sauces
• smoothies
• salad dressings.

You can bake them into your

• cookies
• cakes
• or make them into chips.

You can even use chia seeds to replace eggs to make a recipe Vegan!  When water is added to chia seeds, it creates gel that can bind ingredients together.  3 Tbsp of Water + 1 Tbsp of Chia Seeds = 1 Egg

Do you have a good chia seed recipe? Share it with us on our Facebook page!