Chia

Chia seeds. Tiny white-and-grey kernels containing so much. This grain was consumed by the Mayas and Aztecs since before 3000BC. They were mixed with water to increase hydration, ground into flour, eaten raw (they've got a pretty delicious, nutty flavor), and used for their oil. A single serving of chia seeds can provide over 40% of your daily fiber. It has more Omega-3 fatty acids than salmon, and has more calcium than skim milk. They even provide protein. Mountain Rose Herbs says they contain," Essential fatty acids alpha-linolenic and linoleic acid, mucin, strontium, 30% protein, Vitamins A, B, E, and D, and minerals including calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sulphur, iron, iodine, copper, zinc, sodium, magnesium, manganese, niacin, thiamine, silicon, and anti-oxidants." They are ideal for weightloss, because a small amount will fill you up; when mixed with water, these seeds develop a gel-like coating which help you feel more full. These are all excellent reasons to eat these things.. but they aren't the reason I tried them. You see, I had been buying these: from various grocers for a long time. They are chia drinks made with organic juices and a smudge of agave nectar. They're delicious... but incredibly expensive. They reminded me of the Orbitz drinks I downed as a kid after skating practice. I looked around and it turns out that if you add them to water and let them sit for 30 minutes, they become all gelatinous and can be added to just about everything. Some people add them to pudding, but I find them delightful in juice. I've been drinking them in orange-mango, but are probably good in about anything. I'm going to try them later in tea.