Chia Seeds

Love the chia seed energizing water at Kreation Kafe and chia muffin from Le Pain Quotidien.

Let's be honest, the first thing that entered into my head when I started hearing about chia seeds was that song for chia pets.  You know the plant that grows in your kitchen...  "Ch ch ch chia."  Well if the song doesn't ring a bell, and you're not cursing me later today when you start humming the tune, listen up because those little seeds are considered energy boosters!  WebMD says the Chia seed dates back to Mayan and Aztec cultures.  It also touts the black and white seeds as being high in Omega 3 fatty acids, carbohydrates, protein, fiber, antioxidants and calcium.

Needless to say, I got excited when I noticed that one of my favorite restaurants and juice bars, Kreation Kafe in Santa Monica, prepares fresh Chia Seed water.  I had to try it!  The chia water was the perfect pick me up.  The live chia seeds actually taste a little nutty and definitely add texture to the water.  According to the owner of Kreation Kafe, Marjan Sarshar, chia seeds are the cure for just about everything.  They especially help with digestion after eating a fatty meal, she noted.

One of my other favorite spots to pick up food is Le Pain Quotidien.  I didn't know they prepared chia muffins until my husband brought me home a few the other day.  I don't think they're low in calories but they taste amazing!!

Whole foods sells large bags of chia seeds.  You can sprinkle them on your cereal and add them to your smoothies.  The best part is that unlike flax seeds, you don't have to worry about grinding them to get the full nutritional benefits.  Oh, and just in case you want to hear the chia pet song, check it out on YouTube.  Cheers to ch ch ch chias!!