Chia Pet Cocktail

Yes, Chia Seeds are not just something you spread on a clay pet and watch it grow. They have incredible health benefits. This drink will keep you hydrated and energized and be a novel addition to your refreshing summer drink list.

My friend Darlene told me that her husband Doug had added Chia Seeds to his diet and he was enjoying how they made him feel. I remembered that I had come across a Chia Seed drink that sounded interesting and had made a mental note to try it. I am even more motivated to give it a try now that I know how great it is for you. Cheers Doug, hope you enjoy this drink!

Chia Fresca

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons chia seeds
• 1/3 cup agave nectar
• 1 cup fresh lime juice or lemon juice
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, loosely packed

Directions

In a medium bowl, mix the chia seeds with 1 cup cold water. Let stand 15 minutes.

Mix 3 cups cold water and the agave nectar in a medium pitcher, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Add the lime juice and stir to combine. Mix in the chia seeds. Garnish with mint leaves and serve over ice. Serves 4.

Interesting Little Tidbits

When you hydrate the seeds in water the seeds shell opens up and absorbs up to nine times its volume in water. This then forms a gel, which is called Chia Seed Gel. The gel helps keep your body hydrated. The gel is also 90% soluble fiber, which is beneficial for your digestive track. People use the seeds when they are involved in sports or physical activities for endurance. The seeds have twice the protein of any other seed or grain, five times the calcium of milk, boron which is trace mineral that helps transfer calcium into your bones, omega 3 and omega 6 which are essential oils for the body. They also have a very long list of valuable nutrients in them naturally. The soluble fiber in the gel forms a wall between carbohydrates and the body, releasing them slowly into the body. This has been found to be very helpful for people who have trouble controlling their sugar levels like Diabetics. Dieters love the seeds because it can be added to any food or drink in a ratio of 75% to the volume of food or drink and will not change the taste. Because the carbohydrates are released slowly you will get the feeling of being full. Many use the seeds as a way to control their appetites.