Iskiate / Chia Fresca – A Natural Energy Drink

If there is magic on this planet, it is contained in water

Loren Eiseley

Water is the world’s first and foremost medicine so we should drink more water. But honestly, plain water is not my favorite thing. I crave a glass of water only when I’m really thirsty. I like to drink infused water made with cucumber, lime, and watermelon. My current favorite is Iskiate, a water based chia seed drink, originating from  the indigenous Mexican tribe, Tarahumara,  renowned for their long distance running ability.

What are chia seeds?

Chia are tiny edible seeds obtained from a flowering plant in the mint family known as Salvia hispanica.  They have been part of the human diet for a long time, but only in the last few decades has their production and consumption trended upward. So much so that it is very easy to find them in all supermarkets. Chia seeds come in naturally white or black colors. Often they are a marbled mixture of gray, brown and yellow.

Benefits of Chia seeds

• Despite their small size, chia seeds pack in tons of good nutrition.
• They are said to be a source of amazing long-term energy, which over time can actually help your body to function at its best and burn more calories throughout the day.
• Chia seeds also contain a high source of omega-3 fatty acids and various other macro nutrients that help the body regulate glands, fight fatigue, and reduce inflammation.
• Chia seeds are naturally gluten-free and rich in calcium, phosphorus and magnesium making them a great dairy alternative for people following a vegan diet.
• The high fiber content in chia seeds helps to stay full longer and in relieving constipation.
• Chia seeds can also allegedly help reduce nervousness, treat insomnia, improve mental focus, and can be made into a soothing gel to help lubricate dry skin.
  

How to eat chia seeds?

Chia seeds can be eaten in whole or milled form. However, you cannot get the most out of their benefits by consuming them raw. it is important to soak whole chia seeds before eating. Soaking activates the mucilage, a type of soluble fiber, extremely important for gut health. Chia seeds also contain a significant amount of enzyme inhibitors, which act to prevent the seeds from sprouting prematurely in nature. Without soaking when you eat them, the enzyme inhibitors also will bind to nutrients we need, potentially creating nutritional deficiencies and digestive strain. After soaking they can be added to smoothies, pudding, soups, yogurt and the detox water, Iskiate. Milled chia seeds can be mixed with flours like gluten free whole grain flour for making crepes, pancakes and chapati.

(Read more about chia seeds in the links given at the end of the post).

I have always been interested in chia seeds because of my familiarization with basil seeds, which are typically used in South East Asian cuisine as a thickening agent for beverages. Basil seeds (also known as sabja seeds) are literally the seeds of the sweet basil plant. They look similar to sesame seeds and are jet black. Like chia seeds, the exterior of basil seeds become gelatinous when soaked in liquids. They swell faster than chia seeds and get a little larger too, retaining a tiny bit of crunch in their center even after they swell. They have a lot of the same benefits as chia seeds but are hard to find here therefore more expensive than chia seeds.

I have used chia seeds before in smoothies, pudding, and egg replacements but started making Iskiate only recently. Chia Seed really stands out among other types of seeds! Due to their hydrophilic nature, iskiate is extremely beneficial as a summer drink. It not only hydrates you but also provides an impressive boost of energy. Though, you don’t have to go crazy drinking this all the time. I make it on days when I go for a workout. You can prepare it in a water bottle and take it with you to gym, work or school.

It’s delicious and simple to make.  Soak seeds in water and refrigerate for 1 hr. or overnight. Then stir in lemon/lime juice. That’s all there is to it! Optionally you can use coconut water instead of filtered water and also add some honey for sweetness.  I prefer my Iskiate to be sweetener free, instead I add fresh mint leaves for a refreshing taste and  flavor.

So, if you guys haven’t tried Iskiate yet , you definitely should. It’s a useful addition to your healthy lifestyle.

Caution

It’s advisable to consult your physician before eating chia seeds, If you suffer from reduced kidney function or other digestive issues. They are rich in potassium and fiber, therefore produce a lot of waste that damaged kidneys may not be able to manage adequately.

Resources 

FleetFeet -Chia seeds

Food science- Chia seeds

Chia Seed Plant Information

Secrets of Tarahumara

Difference between Black and white Chia seeds