New Kick : Chia Seeds and Broccoli Sprouts

So this weekend is all about experimenting. I baked a lot - more than I have ever baked before (see bagels, cookies, and bars) so that I could freeze some ready-to-go energy. I also got my hands on some Chia seeds - which had always just been my garfield's hair before (chia pet throw back!). Here is what I learned about Chia seeds:

(borrowed from Raw Reform)

What are some other benefits of eating Chia?

Provides energy

Boosts strength

Bolsters endurance

Levels blood sugar

Induces weight loss

Aids intestinal regularity

Sugar Absorption
Chia slows the impact of sugars on the system, if eaten together. Chia gel creates a physical barrierbetween carbohydrates and the digestive enzymes that break them down, which slows the conversion of carbs into sugar. That means the energy from the food is released steadily, resulting in more endurance. This is clearly of great benefit to diabetics in particular. It also means that I can combine chia with super-sweet tastes like apple juice and not get super-spiked ;)

Absorb and Retain Water
Due to the exceptional water-absorption quality of chia, it can help you prolong hydration and retainelectrolytes, especially during exertion.

Easy to Digest
Whole, water-soaked chia seeds are easily digested and absorbed. Their tiny dinosaur-egg-like shells break down quickly. They feel light in the body, yet energising. Their nutrients can be quickly assimilated into the body.

Intestinal Broom
Chia seeds bulk up, then work like an incredible digestive broom, sweeping through your intestinal tract, helping to dislodge and eliminate old accumulated waste in the intestines. Many people find their stools also become more regular once they eat chia.

Inexpensive
Chia is a very reasonably priced, concentrated food. Our 1lb bags cost $8. 1/3 cup of dry chia seeds (2 ounces) makes about 17 ounces of chia gel. This costs about $1. Depending on how much gel you use, those 17oz will likely last, on average, about four days. That is about 25cents a day.

Versatile
Chia can be used in so many kinds of recipes - savoury, sweet - it works with anything. You might want to try them in salad dressings, cookie mixtures, smoothies, crackers, ice creams, juices and so on.

Gluten-Free
Chia seed protein contains no gluten. This makes it ideal for anyone with a gluten sensitivity or simply wanting to find a replacement for gluten-containing grains like wheat, barley, rye and oats.

My new fav drink

'Chia Fresca'
2 tsp chia seeds
10oz pure water
juice of one lemon or lime
agave syrup or raw honey to taste

You can buy chia seeds at any healthy food store (ie. berkeley bowl, whole foods, etc).

On another note I have fallen in LOVE with Broccoli sprouts. I have eaten sprouts my whole life but I just learned about how great broccoli sprouts are for you - not that surprising I guess since broccoli is the most nutritious veggie out there...no wonder it is so delicious and kids love it.

Sprouts are super easy to grow (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F-1V4vtV8Yo, this will work for any seeds to be sprouted - also highly entertaining because they are SOOOO enthusiastic and Australian) - basically they are the baby version of a plant - all you need to do is get a jar or container and punch holes in the top so it can breathe - wet your seeds and put them in the container in one layer and let them sprout for the next week while rinsing them daily - when they are ready you just eat them - YUM!

Benefits:

• Super high in anti-oxidants (one of the highest forms and super cheep) and Vitamin A. They are currently being advertised as one of the best forms of cancer prevention.
• High in Vitamin C and Calcium (way more than the original bean/seed)
• Also high in fiber and protein and low in Calories.

Here is how I like to enjoy sprouts: Like lettuce - on top of salads and sandwiches. Basically I throw them on any dish regardless, they add a yummy crunch and kick.

-spicy sprouts :radish

-sweet sprouts: beans and alfalfa

-hearty sprouts: broccoli