Banana Chia Super Smoothie

So, long story short, I've been trying more elimination diets. Which means having to be more creative with things. For example, I wasn't eating coconut milk, nut milks, hemp milk, cow milk, or really any thing known as "milk" for a while, but I had all the other ingredients for a delicious-sounding smoothie in the freezer, such as frozen bananas and blackberries. So I got creative and decided to use coconut water. And I added some chia seeds in for an extra kick of energy. I know, I just sold it there. Electrolyte-packed coconut water AND the energy-boosting chia seeds of the ancient Maya and Aztecs? You probably just knocked over your computer running to your blender. Everyone's in love with the "super foods" and trendy foods that sell themselves as a panacea for whatever ails you, and I don't really believe in it all. I think all food is super as long as it's grown well, and eaten well. But still...this smoothie is damn good (especially the chocolate one). If I close my eyes while I drink it, I think it really does give me super powers.

Obviously not a backpacking food, due to the blender issue, but because of all those electrolytes and the chia-pow, it would make a great before or after smoothie for a day of hiking, biking, climbing, or whatever else. In the meantime, if you really love it, and want it on a backcountry trip, petition REI to make a hand-powered blender.

Per 1 serving (double or triple as desired)

1 TB chia seeds
1 frozen banana
1/4 - 1/2 can coconut water, chilled

Blend together. For a thicker smoothie, use less coconut water, for a thinner one, use more.

To make a Banana-Chocolate Chia Smoothie, just add 1 TB raw cacao powder (I know what you're thinking...could I make this any more super? I really don't think so) per serving.