Energy Bites

Published

What to know about GMOs

Organic fruit label

 

Start the new year right by upgrading the quality of food you buy.  Do your best to avoid genetically modified organisms which are now prevalent in our food supply.  They include corn, soy, and canola, among others, and all their derivatives.  Follow these basic 3 tips to help you stay healthy and GMO-free:

1. Buy 100% Organic

Look for foods that are labeled 100% organic.  Many organically-labeled packaged foods include only a percentage of organic ingredients.  The labels will highlight the organic aspects while neglecting to mention the other ingredients that can be genetically modified.

2. Know your Numbers

Conventional Fruit Labels: Start with the number 4.

GMO Fruit Labels: Start with the number 8, and are usually, but not always, 5 digits in length.

Organic Fruit Labels: Start with the number 9, and are always only 5 digits long.

3. Look for GMO-Free labels

Buy products that say GMO-free, or non-GMO.  If you’re not sure, avoid conventional products with the ingredients most likely to be genetically modified—corn, soy, alfalfa (in many green supplements), canola and cottonseed oil (commonly labeled as vegetable oil or shortening).

 

 

Published

Top 5 Benefits of Chia seeds

Have you tried chia seeds yet?  If not, this is one powerful superfood I recommend adding to your diet.  They are small but packed with nutritional goodness.  Traditional cultures like the Aztecs consumed these tiny black seeds as a form of medicine and healing.  See my top 5 benefits of chia below:

 

chia seeds

1. Great for digestion

Chia seeds are fantastic for improving digestion and regularity – they are easily digestible and packed with 11 grams of fiber per ounce.  The seeds act like a broom, sweeping away old accumulated waste and cleansing your intestinal tract.

2. Help you lose weight naturally

Chia absorb up to 12 times their weight and expand in your stomach, helping you feel full and satisfied, preventing overeating.  With two times the amount of protein of any other seed or grain, the high protein content helps curb your appetite, leading to natural weight loss.

3. Excellent source of  Omega-3s

Omega-3s are critical for brain functioning and serve as a natural anti-inflammatory in the body.  Chia seeds contain five grams per one ounce serving, more omega-3s than salmon!

4. Build strong bones and teeth

Chia seeds have five times the calcium of milk and also contain boron – the trace mineral which helps you absorb calcium into your bones. Try adding the seeds to yogurt, kefir or coconut milk with a bit of cut up fruit or honey for a healthy, calcium packed treat.

5. Energizing and easy

When consumed,  the nutrients from chia are easily assimilated, providing steady, clear energy in the body.   The longer the seeds are left to soak, the more their nutrients will be readily available you.  Chia is especially energizing for athletes – the amazing water absorbing properties help you stay hydrated for longer and aids in retaining electrolytes.
*The best thing is, using chia is easy – to make a chia seed gel, soak in 1/3 cup of seeds in 2 cups of water for about 10 minutes.  Or simply add seeds to smoothies, yogurt, granola or sprinkle onto salads.   ENJOY!