I think the first time I heard the word chia, it was during a holiday gift commercial for "chia pets."  Who can forget the jingle - cha-cha-cha-chia?  Surprisingly enough, the seeds used to grow these whimsical terracotta plants is the same seed that is considered a powerful superfood.

The ancient Aztecs used chia seeds over 3000 years ago.  Warriors prized the small seeds for its endurance promoting qualities.  They would eat it in bread before battle or drink it in water before running long distances.

What's so special about chia?  Chia contains Omega 3 which is a rich source of essential fatty acids.  Omega 3 fatty acids are necessary for human growth and supports the development of our brain, eyes and nerves.  Chia seeds are also rich in calcium, potassium, mangesium, iron, zinc, many trace minerals and is considered a biologically-complete protein.  What that means is it contains an adequate proportion of all the nine essential amino acids for our dietary needs.

Why would anyone want to include chia seeds in their diet?  Health benefits include:
- Promotes a healthy heart
- Normalizes blood pressure
- Lowers bad cholesterol
- Has six times more calcium than milk
- Considered nutritionally superior to flax and soy
- Improves digestion
- Removes toxins naturally
- Strengthens muscles and bones
- Supports healthy weight loss due to its high fiber content

Because chia is neutral in color and flavor, it can be added to healthy recipes without changing the taste.  It's delicious in soups, cereal, salad, yogurt, smoothies and baked goods.  You can buy Chia in most health food stores. 



  
 

Inquiring minds want to know.  I have to admit, I'm surprised by it myself.  When my friend Denise MacDonald asked me if I wanted to try Shakeology I said yes, but inside my head I was thinking, "thanks, but no thanks."  I'd never endorsed a networking marketing product before and I wasn't about to start now.  Or so I thought.

I tossed the samples on the floor of the passenger side of my car and drove around with them for two weeks.  I gave one to my mom and asked her to try it.  I was thinking it would be good for someone like her because she travels a lot for work.  I also asked my husband to try it.  His idea of breakfast was a cup of coffee and a cinnamon bun.  Imagine what his life is like being married to me - the queen of all that's good for you. 

My mom didn't try it right away and my husband said he'd try it if I'd get  up early enough to blend it up for him.  Yeah, right.  Like that's gonna happen.  I'm a bit of a night owl and relish those extra moments of dreamland. 

So anyway, I'm working from home one day and realize I haven't eaten.  I was so busy taking coaching calls that I'd forgotten.  I picked up the single serving Shakeology pack and start reading the ingredients on the back. Hmm.  Very impressive.  Everything in it is something I'd suggest to a client.  I break out the blender and pour it in with eight ounces of almond milk and some ice.  At the time I was thinking, "this stuff probably tastes like crap."  Hate to be crass, but that's what I said to myself as the sound of the blender whirred into life.

I poured the mixture into a tall glass with a straw and took a long draw.  All I can say is - chocolatey deliciousness.  Every sip was like a sinful swallow of a fribble from Friendlies. 

So I sign up to be a coach because the discount was too good to pass up.  I figured I'd drag myself out of bed every morning and make it for Kevin.  At least it has vitamins, minerals, pre and probiotics, super fruits, super greens, adaptogens, chromium, 17 grams of high quality protein, flax seed meal, chia seed meal, quinoa, and so much more.  My thought process was, at least coffee won't be the first thing to hit his stomach in the morning.  And he'd be getting a lot of nutrients he wouldn't have otherwise.

Notice, I'm not saying I'd make it for myself.  That didn't happen until four days later when Kevin reported he had no sugar cravings - AT ALL.  He had no desire for the ice cream sundaes he bought a few nights a week at the local ice cream shop or the snickers bar he ate after lunch every day or the brownies, cookies, cinnamon buns - nothing.  No sugar cravings.  Did I tell you he quit smoking almost two years ago and that sugary sweets replaced his cigarettes? 

So I started drinking it.  I want to see for myself what it's all about.  I noticed I had more energy - way more energy, no sugar cravings (or cravings for cheap carbs like chips) and slept like a brick.  We started exercising every day.  I was in the habit of walking my dog three or four times a week, but this was different.  We both actually had enough energy to do a real workout (free DVD provided with a bag of Shakeology - go figure, a company that actually cares about health).  I feel amazing and I'm telling anyone who will listen. But don't take my word for it. 

TRY IT FOR YOURSELF.  There's no risk.  The company offers a full money back guarantee if you return whatever you don't use within 30 days. 

If you've read this far, thanks.  I know it's a long story, but I think it's worth telling.  I eat better than I ever have in my life.  I'm getting in better physical shape than I've ever been in my life.  And I'm happy and feel balanced.  To me that's the most important piece.  If you're interested, check it out for yourself at www.Shakeology.com/katogar.  I honestly don't mind if you don't buy it.  It's a personal choice and that choice belongs to you.  I'll send a free sample to the first 3 people to contact me via the contact form on my Shakeology site.

Best of health,

Kathleen