If you’re looking for the next big thing in nutrition, look no further than tiny seeds.    Chia seeds have been around for centuries, but have recently gained celebrity status for their nutrition profile.  Each TBS serving has 3 grams of protein, 5 grams of carbohydrate (all five of which are fiber) and 2.5 g of healthy fats.  Chia seeds are nearly tasteless and absorb liquid easily, gelling and making a creamy addition to oatmeal and other foods.   Hemp hearts a nutty little nutrient-packed seeds with a tender crunch.  Each 3 TBS serving contains 170 calories, 10 grams of protein, and 3 grams of carbs (all three of which are fiber).  They are also an excellent source of essential fatty acids including omega 3s and 6s and gamma linolenic acid (GLA) and they’re rich in vitamin E.

You can add chia and/or hemp seeds to salads, baked goods, soups and stews, and smoothies.  And for a lower carb alternative to oatmeal, try the follow Chia Cereal recipe, found on the back of the Nutiva brand chia seeds.

 Chia Cereal

Ingredients:

2 TBS Chia Seeds
2 TBS Hemp Hearts
1 TBS coconut oil
6 oz water or milk
Apple, banana, or berries

Directions:          

Place coconut oil in a small saucepan and melt over medium heat.  Add the liquid and the chia seeds and continuing heating until warm and thickened.  Stir in the hemp hearts and fruit and serve!