I love smoothies, especially banana, mango or peach ones! Just recently I discovered the health benefits of adding chia seeds to various foods. Most of the time, I don't even know that the chia seeds are in them! Here is some information about Chia seeds, their health benefits and a fabulous Banana Chia Seed Smoothie Recipe from Keren Gilbert.
Chia seeds are considered hydrophilic or “water-loving” and can absorb nearly 12 times their weight in water. Gilbert explains that this process can prolong hydration and regulate the body’s absorption of nutrients to keep clients feeling full longer. “Many clients make the mistake of skipping meals to try and lose weight. In reality this just slows down your metabolism because your body is trying to conserve energy,” adds Gilbert. “Instead start your morning with a filling snack by simply sprinkling the seeds on oatmeal or adding to shakes and smoothies.”
** Recipe is courtesy of Keren Gilbert.
Banana Chia Seed Smoothie Recipe
1 large peeled orange
1 tablespoon Chia seeds
1 cup vanilla almond milk
1 banana (frozen)
1 teaspoon of stevia sweetener like SweetLeaf or Nu Natural White Stevia Powder
Combine all ingredients in a blender until smooth, and enjoy!
About Keren Gilbert MS, RD: Keren Gilbert is a nutritionist and the Founder and President of Decision Nutrition™, a nutrition consultant firm in Great Neck, NY and Roslyn, NY. Keren has years of experience in both clinical and private settings and has counseled patients with a variety of nutrition related issues including obesity, high cholesterol, diabetes, high blood pressure, pre natal, pregnancy and digestive issues. Keren is a registered dietitian and certified nutritionist in the state of New York. Keren completed her Masters degree in nutrition and food studies from New York University (NYU) and completed her dietetic residency at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. She is an accredited member of the American Diabetic Association and the Greater New York Dietetic Association. She is a member of Nutrition Entrepreneurs, Dietitians in Business, The Diabetes Care and Education Diabetic Practice Group and Sports, Cardiovascular, and Wellness Nutrition (SCAN). For more information visit www.decisionnutrition.com or visit Keren on Facebook at Decision Nutrition.
