Give Your Chi a Lift with Chia

Say the word chia and most of us immediately think of little green pets. But we want you to think of chia for another reason: A whole grain used by the Aztecs as their main energy source, chia can help restore energy levels and decrease inflammation because it contains omega-3 fatty acids. Similar to corn starch, chia can be used as a thickening agent and as a substitute for whole grains in your diet. Read more about chia seeds. Whole grains are especially important because they help stabilize blood sugar levels, avoiding the spikes and falls that can occur when you eat sugars and refined carbohydrates. Make a batch of chia muffins -- try this recipe, or pick up a mix at the store, but be sure to use canola oil when preparing them.