Chia Seed Drink Boosts Carb Loading Before Exercise

TUSCALOOSA, Ala.Athletes looking to load up on carbohydrates prior to exercise may turn to a less-caloric beverage containing 50-percent omega-3 rich chia seeds and 50-percent Gatorade that produce the same athletic performance as 100-percent Gatorade, according to a new study published in the Journal of Strength & Conditioning.

Researchers at the University of Alabama studied six pairs of long distance runners who used Gatorade and the 50-50 Gatorade Chia seed combination in two separate trials. They found the 50-50 mix of Gatorade and chia seeds produced the same level of endurance with a lower carb load and a higher nutrient load. The nutrient load was  mainly omega-3 fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acids, fiber, protein, calcium, zinc, boron, potassium and phosphorous.