(Bear with me, it's a long post guys!  Please read when you have time, I think this is really interesting!) 

I've been talking about these little seeds a little bit here on the boards, but I'm getting really excited about them so it's time to post about them.  You know I can't keep a good thing to myself!  It's going to sound crazy when you first hear what I'm talking about, keep an open mind. 

Thanks to Crazeru (Chris) who I got the idea from, I've added Chia seeds to my daily intake.  (Yes, like the stuff you put on the Chia Pets for them to grow "hair"...same stuff).  I'm taking them as a kind of fiber to bulk up my stools in hopes that I can go #2 less often.  (I've been going quite a bit these days, NOT diarrhea, just frequent soft bm's).  I have only been taking the Chia seeds for two weeks, but I'm already seeing some really great results.  I've gone from going #2 once every several hours, to going in the mornings (A LOT) and then once in the evening before bed.  That is a HUGE improvement for me.  It may be too soon to be touting the awesome results, but I just don't want to wait to tell others about these amazing little seeds!  I've been taking 3 tablespoons, 3 x's a day.  (After each main meal).  I just put them on a spoon, put them in my mouth, take a gulp of Crystal light and swish the seeds around in my mouth and then swallow.  After taking the seeds, I then take several drinks of whatever I'm drinking to clear out the seeds, as they tend to like to stick to the inside of your teeth and mouth.  After taking the seeds I wait about five minutes, and then drink a big glass of water or Crystal Light or water.  (The reason I'm waiting for 5 minutes to take them will be explained below under acid reflux info).

So, now that I'm already taking them for intestinal regularity, some other cool things are happening!  My acid reflux has calmed down for the first time in my 18 months as a post op.  I've had no acid reflux when I lay in bed at night...I've had reflux like that about 3 times a weeks since surgery, and now, nada!!  And the more I read about these awesome seeds, the more I'm getting excited about the potential for what they could do for any post op DSer! 

So, once these amazing little seeds are inside of you, that's when the cool stuff happens!  They're chock full of protein, omega 6, omega 3, and well, here let me shut up and paste some interesting info....

Here's a picture of them...




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Why would you want to eat Chia?

Chia seeds are said to have:
# 2 times the protein of any other seed or grain, (PROTEIN!)
# 5 times the calcium of milk, plus boron which is a trace mineral that
helps transfer calcium into your bones, (HELPS AID IN CALCIUM ABSORPTION!!)
# 2 times the amount of potassium as bananas,
# 3 times the reported antioxidant strength of blueberries
# 3 times more iron than spinach  (IRON...IS THIS STUFF TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE?)
# copious amounts of omega 3 and omega 6, which are essential fatty acids...

They are a complete source of protein, providing all the essential amino acids in an easily digestible form. They are also a fabulous source of soluble fibre.
Like flax, chia is highly ‘hydrophilic’ – the seeds absorb water and create a mucilaginous gel. They can hold 9-12 times their weight in water and they absorb it very rapidly – in under 10 minutes.

Antioxidants
One advantage of chia is that because it has such a high antioxidant content, the seeds stay stable for much longer, whereas flax, for example, may turn rancid. Chia seeds can easily be stored dry for 4-5 years without deterioration in flavour, odour or nutritional value. You can substitute chia in any recipe that calls for flax.

The ‘Dieter’s Dream Food’
Chia has been called a dieter’s dream food because when added to foods, it bulks them up, displacing calories and fat without diluting the flavour. Thus, someone can eat a typical serving, yet only consume about half the calories they might have eaten, because the food has been bulked up with chia. PLUS, the eater gets a bellyful of nutrient-rich superfood goodness, which hydrates and sustains them – magic ;)

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What are some other benefits of eating Chia?

# Provides energy
# Boosts strength
# Bolsters endurance
# Levels blood sugar
# Induces weight loss
# Aids intestinal regularity (This is why I originally wanted to take these.  Also, it's not in the info I have posted here, but I've read other articles that say the Chia seeds not only help to regulate loose stools, but also does the opposite and prevents constipation in those suffering constipation)

Sugar Absorption
Chia slows the impact of sugars on the system, if eaten together. Chia gel creates a physical barrier between carbohydrates and the digestive enzymes that break them down, which slows the conversion of carbs into sugar. That means the energy from the food is released steadily, resulting in more endurance. This is clearly of great benefit to diabetics in particular.

Absorb and Retain Water
Due to the exceptional water-absorption quality of chia, it can help you prolong hydration and retain electrolytes, especially during exertion.

Easy to Digest
Whole, water-soaked chia seeds are easily digested and absorbed. Their tiny dinosaur-egg-like shells break down quickly. They feel light in the body, yet energising. Their nutrients can be quickly assimilated into the body.

Intestinal Broom
Chia seeds bulk up, then work like an incredible digestive broom, sweeping through your intestinal tract, helping to dislodge and eliminate old accumulated waste in the intestines. Many people find their stools also become more regular once they eat chia.

Versatile
Chia can be used in so many kinds of recipes – savoury, sweet – it works with anything. You might want to try them in salad dressings, cookie mixtures, smoothies, crackers, ice creams, juices and so on.                                                                                                                                        (I SKIP ALL OF THIS AND JUST PUT THEM IN MY MOUTH AND SWALLOW WITH LIQUID)

Gluten-Free
Chia seed protein contains no gluten. This makes it ideal for anyone with a gluten sensitivity or simply wanting to find a replacement for gluten-containing grains like wheat, barley, rye and oats.


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Which medical conditions can Chia help relieve or support?
Chia is reported to be beneficial for a vast range of issues, for example:

# weight loss/balance
# thyroid conditions
# hypo-glycaemia
# diabetes
# IBS
# celiac disease
# acid reflux 
# lowering cholesterol

Ancient Remedy
In the traditional cultures that consumed chia, like the Aztecs, chia was also regarded as a medicine. It was used in myriad ways – from cleaning the eyes to helping heal wounds, topically, to relieving joint pain and so on. It was considered extremely valuable for healing.

Acid Reflux (THIS IS WHAT I WAS TALKING ABOUT ABOVE, The reason I take the seeds the way I do)
One woman we know uses chia therapeutically to manage her acid reflux. Because of the highly absorbent properties of chia, she can swallow a Tbsp of dry seeds with just a little water and they go into her stomach and absorb the excess acid. She makes sure to drink a glass of water a few minutes later, as the seeds are so hydrophilic that if they do not find enough to absorb in the stomach, they will draw from the tissues instead. By allowing the seeds to first absorb the acid, then drinking some more water, our friend is able to very simply, effectively and cheaply handle her condition. :)

Regeneration
Chia aids rapid development of tissue, due to its incredible nutrient profile and easy assimilation. It can be very beneficial for those healing from injuries, people like bodybuilders who are always re-forming tissues and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.  

The above info was taken from
http://www.holisticlocal.co.uk/articles/view/1197/The+Chia+C heat+Sheet

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More Info on Chia Seeds

~The gel that is formed in the stomach creates a physical barrier between carbohydrates and the digestive enzymes that break them down, thus slowing the conversion of carbohydrates into sugar.

            In addition to the obvious benefits for diabetics, this slowing in the conversion of carbohydrates into sugar offers the ability for creating endurance. Carbohydrates are the fuel for energy in our bodies. Prolonging their conversion into sugar stabilizes metabolic changes, diminishing the surges of highs and lows creating a longer duration in their fueling effects.

            One of the exceptional qualities of the Chia seed is its hydrophilic properties, having the ability to absorb more than 12 times its weigh in water. Its ability to hold on to water offers the ability to prolong hydration. Fluids and electrolytes provide the environment that supports the life of all the body’s cells. Their concentration and composition are regulated to remain as constant as possible. With Chia seeds, you retain moisture, regulate, more efficiently, the bodies absorption of nutrients and body fluids. Because there is a greater efficiency in the utilization of body fluids, the electrolyte balance is maintained.

Chia seed, a muscle and tissue builder and an energizer of endurance with extensive hydration properties, possesses none of the above disadvantage, and because if its physiochemical properties, supports effective treatment in immediate problems of digestion.  Exactly why this should be true may be puzzling at first.  However, if we consider the effect of unusual irritation upon the nerves of the gastrointestinal canal, it is reasonable the think that a less violent and more balanced digestion might quiet the activity of the otherwise hyperactive gut.  Inasmuch as the same foods, which formerly produced irritation, may frequently be continued without harm when hydrophilic colloids are used.   The relief to nerve irritation seems to offer a logical explanation.

The change, in the lower gastrointestinal tract, is due to the effect of the hydrophilic colloid and to a more complete digestion-taking place along the entire tract due to physiochemical alterations.   Both factors are important, as there is undoubtedly a better assimilation of food that supports enhanced nutritional absorption while significantly extending necessary hydration as well as encouraging proper elimination.

As a source of protein, the Chia, after ingestion, is digested and absorbed very easily.  This results in rapid transport to the tissue and utilization by the cells.  This efficient assimilation makes the Chia very effective when rapid development of tissue takes place, primarily during growth periods if children and adolescents.  Also for the growth and regeneration of tissue during pregnancy and lactation, and this would also include regeneration of muscle tissue for conditioning, athletes, weight lifters, etc.

Another unique quality if the Chia seed is its high oil content, and the richest vegetables source for the essential omega-3 fatty acid.  It has approximately three to ten times the oil concentrations of most grains and one and a half to two times the protein concentrations of other grains.   These oils, unsaturated fatty acids, are the essential oils your body needs to help emulsify and absorb the fat soluble vitamins, A, D, E, & K. (<-----Did you read that part?  Helps absorb A, D, E, & K's???)   Chia seeds are rich in the unsaturated fatty acid, linoleic, which the body cannot manufacture.  When there are rich amounts of linoleic acid sufficiently supplied to the body trough diet, linoleic and arachidonic acids can be synthesized   from linoleic acid.

Unsaturated fatty acids are important for respiration of vital organs and make it easier for oxygen to be transported by the blood stream to all cells, tissues, and organs. They also help maintain resilience and lubrication of all cells and combine with protein and cholesterol to form living membranes that hold the body cells together.

Unsaturated fatty acids are essential for normal glandular activity, especially of the adrenal glands and the thyroid glad.  They nourish the skin cells and are essential for healthy mucus membranes and nerves.  The unsaturated fatty acids function in the body by cooperating with vitamin D (IT COOPERATES WITH VITAMIN D!!!  DSers DREAM HERE GUYS!)  in making calcium available to the tissues, assisting in the assimilation of phosphorus, and stimulating the conversion of carotene into vitamin A.   Fatty acids are related to normal functioning of the reproductive system.   Chia sees contain beneficial long-chain triglycerides (LCT) in the right proportion to reduce cholesterol on arterial walls.

The Chia seed is also a rich source of calcium as it contains the important mineral boron, which acts as catalyst for the absorption and utilization of the calcium by the body. (SEE WHY I'M GETTING SO EXCITED HERE?)

            Chia seed, having a qualitatively unique situational richness along with a profound nutritive profile is one of man’s most useful and beneficial foods and is destined to be the Ancient Food of the Future.

 Above info taken from http://www.living-foods.com/articles/chia.html

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Okay, so I know that was a lot of reading, but let me know what you think.  Google CHIA SEEDS and read more.  The more I read the more I'm convinced about keeping Chia Seeds in my diet.  Maybe this isn't for everyone, but I wanted to put it out there in case it might help you!!!  Dr. Oz has even been talking about the great benefits of Chia Seeds in his books and on Oprah, saying they're a little known Superfood!

ETA: I ordered mine from Nutsonline.com and they are $6.99 a pound.  The shipping is almost as expesive, but it is still less than I can get them local to me.  Check your area whole food markets for a better price, I'm sure there are better prices out there somewhere.

ALSO, on the amount that you need to take will vary for each of us.  I started with 1 tablespoon and have worked my way up to 9 tablespoons a day.  I'm sure this is a "your mileage will vary" situation, we will each have to play with the amount that will work for each of us individually.



Lori

I lost another 20 lbs while reading this long azz post!

Anywho, do you grind them up or just take em down whole? I use benefiber in my AM shake but I want to move away from most things manufactured.

You can put them in a shake, you can hydrate them first in water, you can put them in baked goods, sprinkle them on yogurt or ice cream, you can do it just about anyway you want!  Google Chia Seeds and you can find a million ways to take these awesome little seeds!

And you're welcome for the weight loss I've provided you!  Lol!  You should see how much *I* have been reading about these little effers since I learned about them!!  Lol!

Lori

Very interesting Lori. So from what I understood from the reading: chia seeds will firm up BM's if needed or will help with constipation. I stay on the border of constipation and "normal" DS BM's on a daily basis, so I am very mindful of the fat, fiber, and mag. oxide that I consume daily.

I wonder how I would respond to including them in my diet?

Where did you purchase them?

Good point...Nutsonline.com.  1 pound = $6.99 (The shipping is almost as much, but it's still cheaper than getting them at any of my local natural grocery stores, I've checked around here already, you should check your neck of the woods).  They came to my doorstep in TWO days!  Awesome!

You may have to play with the amount that you take, sort of like fiber.  I started out with one tablespoon in the morning and realized that it wasn't enough.  I've increased since then to 9 tablespoons a day.  I do all things in excess, or so it seems!  Lol!

Lori

Who would have ever thunk it?

Great post. Can it truly be a "miracle food". It sounds amazing. I'm pre-op, but I can see no reason to not start taking these today. They would be great for anybody. Thank you so much Lori.

Cha-Cha-Cha-Chia!!!  I've got my Mom taking them too.  (Non-op).  We've both only been taking them for a short time, but they seem so awesome!!!

Lori

Dang girl!!  I do chia seeds daily for the omegas but not 9 tablespoons

Glad they are working a few things for you.


Tom

You're doing them too?  Really?  What made you start?  What got you onto them to begin with?

Yes I do them daily but only 3 tablespoons a day.   I started them after seeing some information about them at my health food store.  It was talking about  all the benefits from them.  Even pre op I was way into supplements so trying weird things was not uncommon for me. 

I really started them for the Omegas because we can't do the oil omega capsules.

Check out this:

Chia Seeds: An Ancient Super Food for Today's Health Conscious Consumer

By R.B. When you read the word Chia you probably think about the famous Chia Pet® gifts, those porous clay figurines that, when slathered with chia seeds and water, grow green hair. Chia seeds come from a plant whose scientific name is Salvia hispanica, a member of the mint family that grows in southern Mexico, Central America, and certain southern South American countries like Bolivia. Chia seeds have a long history of use as human food. It was domesticated by ancient Mexicans in 2,600 B.C. For centuries this tiny little seed was used as a staple food by the Indians of the Southwest (US) and Mexico. These seeds were known as the "running food". It was said the Aztec warriors subsisted on the Chia seed and water during the conquests. Ancient documents shows that in Mayan times there were four important crops: corn, beans, chia, and amaranth. These four crops comprised the main components of the Aztec and Mayan diets when Columbus arrived in the New World. After conquering Mexico, Spaniards banned growing Chia plants because they played a role in pagan religious ceremonies. Tribute and taxes to the Aztec priesthood and nobility were often paid in chia seeds.The seeds of Chia have tremendous nutritional value and medicinal properties.Chia seeds are typically small 1-mm diameters ovals. They typically contain 20% protein, 34% oil, and 25% dietary fiber. The oil from chia seeds contains a very high concentration of Omega 3 fatty acid - approx. 64% in the oil. Chia seeds contain no gluten so it is useful for people with the celiac disease.If you mix a spoon of Chia seeds in a glass of water and leave it for 30 minutes or so, you will get a glass with almost solid gelatin. This gel-forming process is due to the soluble fiber in the Chia. Researchers believe this same gel-forming phenomenon may take place in the stomach when food containing these fibers, known as mucilages, are eaten. The gel that is formed in the stomach creates a physical barrier between carbohydrates and the digestive enzymes that break them down, thus slowing the conversion of carbohydrates into sugar. This obviously benefits people with diabetes.Another quality of the Chia seed is its high oil content. Not only that, but the quality of such oil is excellent. It is the richest vegetable source for the essential omega-3 fatty acid. These oils, unsaturated fatty acids, are the essential oils your body needs to help emulsify and absorb the fat soluble vitamins, A, D, E, & K. In addition, Chia has no cholesterol. This is different than other sources of omega-3 fatty acids such as fish meat, fish oil, & fish meal all of which contain significant amounts of cholesterol. For health conscious consumers this gives chia an important advantage compared to fish products. Chia seeds have a high content of protein (up to 23%). Chia seed proteins are easily digested, which results in rapid transportation to tissues and fast utilization by the cells. This fast and efficient assimilation makes the Chia seeds very effective when rapid development of tissue is needed to take place, for example, during growth periods in children and adolescents or during tissue repairs.Chia can be stored for years without deterioration in flavor, odor or nutritional value. This is because of the presence on natural antioxidants. This is an advantage compared with marine products like fish oil and fish meal as well as algae oil and powder (also rich in omega-3 fatty acids) which require special packaging and storage conditions to prevent even minor changes occurring over time.Chia is a sustainable and environmentally friendly crop. The high oil content of its leaves acts as an extremely potent insect repellent and eliminates the need for pesticides being used to protect the crop. This opens up the possibility of obtaining organically grown seed so valuable in today´s market. Chia may be used in food processing. A gel prepared with 1 part of chia seeds and 9-10 parts of water is a great food extender, calorie-cutter and nutrient-enricher. Added to mayonnaise in an equal amount, chia gel doubles its volume without changing its taste. Mixed with a spread such as butter, it slashes calories and the amount of saturated fat. Additionally, Chia is ideal for enriching a number of products such as infant formulas, baby foods, baked goods, nutrition bars, yogurt, sauces, etc. When used as animal feed, omega-3 enriched products such as eggs, poultry, beef, milk, and cheese, etc. are produced. Chia seeds have a nutlike flavor and they should be considered to be a healthful and interesting addition to our diets. They can be sprinkled, ground or whole, on cereal, yogurt, or salads; or just eat a handful of whole seeds as a snack. "Chia fresca," a popular drink in Mexico and Central America is also easy to prepare. Just 2 teaspoons of the seeds into 8 to 10 ounces of water. That's it. Add lime or lemon juice and sugar and you are all set. Chia seeds, whole, ground, mixed, or in drinks. An ancient superfood for today´s health conscious consumer.