As a child of the Reagan Era, I have a great appreciation for the many great toys and crappy inventions of the 80's.
I was happy to wait four hours for my Easy Bake oven treats, and subsequently poison myself with dioxin-laced cupcakes. Cabbage Patch Kids made me wish I was adopted. My Sea Monkeys did unspeakable things. I rode my big wheel until the wheels came off.
Perhaps one of the best crappy inventions of the 80s was a little ditty called a "Chia Pet". Homed in a terracotta pot, this little kitty/puppy/ram would grow a bountiful green fur given the proper water and a couple of weeks time. Ch-Ch-Ch-Chia!
Aside from being a latch-key kid's best friend, Chia seeds are an ancient superfood that host an amazing wealth of health benefits. Not only can they help you lose weight, but they can improve your health and keep you young.
Ch-Ch-Skinny
Chia seeds are not only high in fiber, which creates satiety, but the gel they create when mixed with water can be used to substitute butter or oil when cooking. Since they have no true flavor, they do not alter the taste. Don't believe me? Walk into the Dekalb Farmer's Market, and grab a pack of chia seed muffins and tell me they aren't delicious. You're welcome.
Ch-Ch-Healthy
Tired of fish oil pills and salmon? Chia seeds have more Omega 3's than fish, and are a complete source of protein. Unlike other plant sources, such as soy, chia seeds do not affect hormone levels, and offer more complete protein than other plants.
Ch-Ch-Easy
Not only are chia seeds inexpensive (less than a dollar a day), but they are easy to incorporate into your diet. All of the protein, antioxidant, and benefits of chia seeds can be had by easily mixing these flavorless seeds into yogurt, cereal, oatmeal, or other dishes.
Before you go slaughtering your chia sheep, you can find chia seeds easily online or at most health food stores. If you are in Atlanta, you can pogo on down to the Dekalb Farmer's Market for chia seeds, as both whole seeds and ground.
Legwarmers optional.
For more information: Katie O'Neill D.C., is a chiropractor, trainer, and author in Atlanta. She can be reached at Katleigh1982@gmail.com, or visit her website at www.GraceWellnessATL.com
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