chia fruit tea

I'm always looking out for an alternative to coffee. I work in corporate finance, have a husband, two kiddies and I'm an evening entrepreneur, needless to say, I'm occasionally sleep deficient. This hurts me in more ways than one -- impaired metabolism, occasional mood swings, a genuine dislike for early morning sunlight.  And then there is the fact that I tend to overeat for the energy to stay awake during those difficult stretches during the day.

I'm trying my best to get to bed before 3 AM, but on those stretches where my nocturnal nature takes hold and I am inspired in the wee hours of the morning and evening, I make above average food and beverage choices like nutrient rich chia in green smoothies or antioxidant teas.

I conjured up this gem of a drink this morning, and I was feeling super sexy (i.e. energized, focused, and centered). Here is the recipe, give it a try and don't be afraid to modify to suit your taste.


print recipe

Chia Infused Energy Tea
by May-3-2016
Nutrient rich and fiber rich chia infused tea.
Ingredients
  • 1 tea bag Lipton Lemon Ginger Tea
  • 1 tea bag Trader Joe's Pomegranate White Tea (substitute with any of your favorite tea's)
  • 2 tbsp Raw Organic Honey
  • 1/4 cup Hydrated Chia
  • 2-3 thin slices Organic Lemon
Instructions
1. Set water to boil 2. Steep 2 antioxidant tea bags in about 1.5 cups of water for up to 5 minutes 3. Add 1 cup of cold water4. Add honey5. Add hydrated chia6. Shake until well blended and enjoy
Details
Prep time: Cook time: Total time: Yield: 2 servings

Side note: I add cold water before adding honey or chia to take advantage of raw nutrients.

Hydrated chia

To prepare hydrated chia seed take 1/4 cup dry chia seeds and mix with 1 cup of water. Shake well and store in refrigerate in a sealed container. I keep hydrated chia on hand and mix into my smoothies.



Benefits of Chia


  • Massive amount of nutrients (in some instances more than kale, spinach and blueberries) with few calories.
  • Considered a whole grain and is very high in  soluble fiber. Soluble fibers help our bodies to eliminate the hormonal excess metabolized by the liver, dumping it in the intestines. 
  • Very high in antioxidants, which fight the production of free radicals, which can damage molecules in cells.
  • Fairly high in protein (14%), a higher protein intake reduces appetite and has been shown to reduce obsessive thoughts about food by 60% and the desire for night time snacking by 50%.
  • Chia contains more Omega-3s than salmon.
  • It helps improve the health of individuals with type - 2 diabetes and can help regulate blood sugar.
  • Is recommended for pre-workout consumption because studies have shown that chia can help with athletic endurance.