One of the easiest and most effective ways to prepare chia seeds is to turn it into a gel by simply adding it to water or any preferred beverage, such as a juice or sports drink. The complex fiber structure of the seeds will absorb a lot of water, turning into a gel with the passage of about 15 minutes. You won’t need to use too many seeds – the chia will absorb up to 10 times its own weight in water. One cup of chia seeds can absorb 6 cups of water, though more or less can be used depending on your preference. This gel can then be consumed on its own, or used as an additional ingredient in protein shakes, smoothies, and any other blended drinks. This gel can also be used to bulk up the nutritional value of many dishes. It can be used as a thickener for sauces, dips, and salad dressings. It can be mixed in equal parts with jams, jellies, and other fruit preserves. The mild tasting gel will have very little impact on any dish’s flavor, making it an ideal extender. The gel can be made in batches and then stored in plastic containers and refrigerated for up to two weeks.