Chia Pets, a retail product on which grass grows into the pet's "hair," may be the reason most people are familiar with chia seeds. However, these are not the only use for chia seeds. Chia seeds are an edible plant source that comes from a desert plant called Salvia hispanica. This plant is a part of the mint family and grows abundantly in southern Mexico. Chia seeds contain many health benefits and were a large component of Mayan diets. They contain calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, manganese, copper, iron, molybdenum, niacin and zinc. They are a good source of fiber, with 6.9 grams in a 25-gram serving. Chia seeds are also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids.
Instructions
1. Purchase pure chia seeds.
2. Add chia seeds to filtered water according to instructions on the package. If there are no instructions, use 1/3 cup of seeds for two cups of water. This is a 9:1 ratio.
3. Put the chia seed-and-water mixture in a clean jar or container with a tight-fitting lid.
4. Put the lid on the jar and shake the mixture for one minute. Let the mixture stand for two minutes and then shake for one more minute.
5. Refrigerate the gel for up to two weeks.
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