With all of the buzz going on about chia seeds, one might think that they are a creation of modern society. However, chia seeds have been cultivated and consumed since around 3000 B.C. in Pre-Columbian societies. Chia seeds were regarded so highly by Mayan and Aztec societies that they incorporated the seeds into their religious ceremonies. The seeds were even coined running food, because ancient warriors used the seeds as fuel for their long journeys.

Chia Seeds: Nutritional Powerhouses

The nutritional benefits of chia seeds are so great it has some claiming that the seeds are one of the most nutritious foods in the world. Per serving, chia seeds have 5 grams of fiber, 4 grams of protein, 3 grams of Omega Fatty Acids, 15 times more magnesium than broccoli, 6 times more calcium than milk, 3 times the antioxidant strength of blueberries, and 7 times more vitamin C than orange juice.

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This Beetlejuice is not only fun to make, but kids will love how spooky the chia seeds look floating through the juice. Mixing just one tablespoon of chia seeds into your juice will turn a healthy juice into a superfood powerhouse brimming with health benefits.

Ingredients

  • ½ lime
  • ½ grapefruit
  • 1 small beet
  • ½ cucumber
  • a few mint leaves
  • for adding-in: 1 tablespoon chia seeds

Instructions

Juice all ingredients together except the chia seeds. Place chia seeds in a glass and pour juice in. Stir well. Enjoy immediately.