Chia Seeds!

If you're like me you have probably been wondering what all the fuss is lately regarding Chia seeds.  Well I did a little research for us today. 

Some of the benefits of Chia seeds include:

• They slow down the transformation of carbohydrates to sugar - which means more stable blood sugars for you
• They absorb water - which means increased hydration for you
• They are an excellent source of fiber - which means a healthier digestive system!
• They are a quickly digested source of protein - which means faster muscle rebuild, also great for growth during pregnancy and lactation
•  High in omega-3 fatty acids - get in your healthy fats!
• Great source of calcium

So eat your chia seeds!!

Source: http://www.living-foods.com/articles/chia.html

Here is a recipe to try that is so yummy!
 
Clean Eating Spiced Almond Butter Balls 
Recipe courtesy of The Gracious Pantry

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups almond meal
• 1 1/2 cups unsweetened almond butter
• 1/2 cup chia seeds
• 3/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• Zest of 1 large orange
• 1 cup raisins
• 2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon allspice

Directions:

1. Combine all ingredients together in a large mixing bowl (If you need more almond meal to “firm up” the dough, use it as needed).
2. Form into balls about the size of half a walnut (maybe slightly bigger).
3. Place balls on a parchment lined cookie sheet and place in the freezer for at least 2 hours.
4. Store in freezer in a freezer bag or container.

I modified this recipe slightly.  The original recipe called for dried cranberries, which of course I didn't have.  So I used raisins instead.  Still extremely yummy!!  Taste like gingerbread!