Gravity Fx Fitness

I learned of chia seeds and the many health benefits of consuming them, such as the very high anti-oxidant content, omega-3 fatty acids, fiber and protein, a little more than a year ago.

I have taken them off and on during that time, either in a protein drink or in my oatmeal (steel cut oats).  They were regarded as a super food among the ancient Aztecs.  They are reported to give you increased energy and endurance.

Recently, I have been reading the book Born to Run by Chris McDougall about the endurance feats of the Tarahumara Indians of Mexico’s Copper Canyons.  Its a fascinating and well written book that looks at endurance running from an interesting perspective.

One particular drink that they consume is Iskiate (chia fresca).  It is made from a brew of chia seeds, lime, and some honey, though there might be other variations, as well.  In the book this concoction was given to the author and also was reported to aid another explorer as he made the climb out of the deep valleys in the region.

This “new” energy drink might be something to consider as a healthier alternative to sodas and some of the commercial energy drinks available.  To see one recipe for this drink go to Runner’s World.

This may be something to help with weight loss as it helps you feel full and may keep your insulin levels from spiking.  You might also be interested in my previous article on chia seeds.

Get moving!

Brian Morgan

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I just started making a protein/energy drink that is fairly nutritious and tastes good at the same time. I ditched dairy about 4 months ago after some sources made me think it might not be the best for me.

I still enjoy  some pizza here and there (gotta live a little) but have dropped milk and regular protein powders.  Instead, I’ve been using brown rice protein, which tastes kind of “chalky.”

I also mix in chia seeds for the Omega-3’s, high fiber and antioxidant content.  Chia seeds also contain protein and were said to have been a big part of the Aztec diet, providing sustained energy for battles and hunting trips.

I recently read about this “lost” tribe in Mexico’s Copper Canyons that use them to fuel their long runs and hikes through these treacherous lands…..

but since the rice protein isn’t the tastiest, I used some almond milk and a touch of brown sugar for some added flavor.  This makes a big difference!  This doesn’t add that many carbs to the drink and is far fewer than what you get in the typical smoothie drink.

You also get some minerals with the almond milk and for good measure I pour a little bit of sea salt into my hand for all the trace minerals in it.

I made my drink today after my hike/jog through some local woods.  I’m not a runner by any stretch of the imagination but I love the outdoors and it hasn’t gotten too cold out, so I decided to change up my routine a little – a big tip there for all of you that do the same routine all the time.

I did a run/walk, trying to add in some diagonal and lateral movement as I went down the hills in the grass.  I was partly inspired by the book I started reading Born to Run, which is a fascinating tale of a little known tribe in Mexico, their unique lifestyle and their amazing feats of endurance.

Get moving!

Brian Morgan

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Eating chia seeds has helped a local resident lose weight, according to a recent article.

Besides being high in fiber, Omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants, they can also be a part a weight loss program.  The high fiber can make you feel fuller and it can help lower your blood sugar levels.

One local woman has lost 31 pounds since she started using the seeds in February.  She adds the seeds to about 4 ounces of tomato juice before a meal to help fill her up.

I’ve been using them off and on since January, mixing them in with my protein drink in the morning.  Besides making you feel full, they can help slow down the breakdown of carbohydrates, again, helping with blood sugar levels.

I have also been eating some raw almonds before some of my meals for the same type of benefit.  Most of us could use more fiber in our “diets” because of the tendency of many to consume highly processed foods, that are lacking in fiber content.

Besides the fiber, I think that the good fats also help with fat loss, in my opinion.  I’ve been also doing a weekly fast of about 24 hours to help get ready for Summer.  All of the above seem to be helping, as I’m starting to see more definition in my abs.

Not quite a six pack yet, but maybe in 4-6 weeks.  Definitely getting leaner, which is the big goal anyway.  Still don’t eat perfectly, but making baby steps.  The healthy fats seem to decrease sugar cravings.  Like everything else, a gradual increase is probably advised.

For more info you can read my previous article on chia seeds.

Don’t forget to add more movement into your daily activities.  Sweat is good!

Get moving!

Brian

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