It has been a busy past five months with three restaurant openings and two more to come in the next three months.
The irony of working in restaurants is that it can be so busy that you forget to eat. Certainly there is the constant tasting of foods being cooked, but at the end of the day I feel dissatisfied if I don’t actually sit down to a proper, somewhat relaxed meal. I’m happy that over the past few weeks the new businesses have started to develop their own momentum in terms of the food, service and staffing.
One of things that was not that consistent was my own diet. I had become a little bit of a binge eater late at night. To me it was the simple urge to enjoy a plate of food instead of tasting numerous dishes all day--a hunk of parmesan, plenty of salami, olives and thick wedges of toasted buttered bread became my go-to food after work every day. Sure it's delicious and made me feel content for a moment to stand in my dark kitchen at home with the shine of the refrigerator light on my tired face, but I was slowly gorging myself until I was sick. In addition, between the few hours of sleep and working constantly, my workout routine became average at best and I started to feel exhausted, physically and mentally. Something had to change!
Chia & Salad Binge Eating
The following few steps helped get me back to normal. In fact, I'm more productive and have the vitality to feel strong and happy through an eventful workday.
At least every second day, I eat a gigantic portion of unprocessed foods such as raw juices, satisfying tasty salads, and a daily dose of at least 2 tablespoons of chia seeds in a sweet or savory preparation. Usually I like to enjoy the salads and juices in the evening and my chia concoction throughout the day. Chia seeds are my miraculous super food. They are high in calcium and magnesium and one of the richest plant-based sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Chia seeds have a complete amino acid profile, loads of fiber and a generous amount of antioxidants.
In terms of preparation, these tiny seeds are amazing since they absorb up to nine times their weight in liquid. The water absorption of my tiny friends keeps me hydrated throughout the day. In terms of texture, they create a smooth consistency with an interesting welcome bite. I like to describe it as a raspberry jam-like texture. You'll notice the tiny seeds when eating it.
Since I have a bit of a sweet tooth, the following berry spread is my go-to sweet snack currently. I dig it with brown rice crackers.
Berries & Chia
(recipe makes approximately 2 cups)
1/4 cup coconut water
2 pitted dates, chopped
2 cups berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries or a mix
2 tablespoons chia seeds
1) Put coconut water and dates in a blender and process for one minute.
2) Add rinsed berries. Process mixture with the pulse button if your blender has one.
3) Add chia seeds.
4) Chill the spread for 30 minutes in the refrigerator before consuming.
