When chia seeds first started trending a few years back, I was all over it. I was tossing these tiny seeds into my water bottles, juices, and smoothies. It felt like the coolest, healthiest thing ever, but oddly enough, I never ventured into the realm of chia pudding.
Fast forward to now, as I’m gearing up for a big Jiu Jitsu competition in August, I’m all about rediscovering chia seeds. I want to drop a few kilos, boost my health, and feel fitter than ever, and chia seeds seem like a perfect addition to my already balanced diet.
1- Nutricious
These tiny seeds pack a punch with fiber, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and various micronutrients.
Just two tablespoons of chia seeds contain about 11 grams of fiber, 4 grams of protein, and 5 grams of omega-3s, along with significant amounts of calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. This makes them a powerhouse of nutrition that supports overall health and wellbeing.
2-Antioxidant
Chia seeds are loaded with antioxidants that help fight aging and improve skin health. These antioxidants protect the body from free radicals, which can damage cells and contribute to aging and diseases like cancer.
Including chia seeds in your diet can help maintain a youthful appearance and promote healthy skin.
3-Weight Loss
The high fiber content helps you feel full, reducing overall calorie intake. When chia seeds are mixed with liquid, they expand and form a gel-like substance, which can increase feelings of satiety and curb overeating.
This is especially beneficial if you’re trying to shed a few pounds without feeling constantly hungry.
4-Digestive Health
The fiber in chia seeds promotes healthy digestion and prevents constipation. Soluble fiber absorbs water, turning into a gel that slows down digestion and keeps you feeling fuller longer, while insoluble fiber adds bulk to stool, making it easier to pass and supporting regular bowel movements.
5-Boosts Energy
Perfect for someone like me training for a competition, chia seeds provide a steady release of energy.
The combination of protein, fats, and fiber ensures a slow and sustained release of glucose into the bloodstream, preventing energy crashes and keeping you fueled throughout your workouts.
6-Regulates Blood Sugar
They can help control blood sugar, making them great for anyone managing diabetes. The fiber in chia seeds slows the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, which can prevent spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels.
This can be particularly helpful for people with type 2 diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition.
7-Heart Health
The omega-3 fatty acids in chia seeds are known to improve heart health by reducing inflammation and bad cholesterol.
Omega-3s help lower triglycerides, reduce blood pressure, and prevent the formation of blood clots, all of which contribute to a healthier heart and a lower risk of cardiovascular diseases.
8-Bone Strength
Packed with calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium, chia seeds contribute to stronger bones.
These minerals are essential for bone density and overall bone health, helping to prevent osteoporosis and other bone-related conditions as we age.
9-Hydration
They absorb up to 12 times their weight in water, helping to keep you hydrated longer. This hydrophilic property can be particularly beneficial during long workouts or hot weather, as it helps maintain hydration levels and supports overall bodily functions.
10-Easy to Incorporate
Chia seeds are incredibly versatile. You can add them to almost anything! Just sprinkle them over your morning cereal, mix them into your yogurt, blend them into smoothies, bake them into bread, or even use them as an egg substitute in vegan recipes. Their mild flavor and small size make them an easy addition to any meal.
My Favourite Chia Seed Recipe
Now, let’s get to the good stuff – the chia seed pudding recipe that has become my go-to treat. It’s creamy, delicious, and packed with nutrients. Perfect for a pre-workout snack or a guilt-free dessert!
Chia Seeds Pudding
Indulge in this delicious and nutritious chia seed pudding made with creamy coconut milk, sweet honey, refreshing frozen berries, and crunchy almonds. Perfect for a healthy snack or guilt-free dessert that serves 2!
Ingredients
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- 1 cup frozen berries (blueberries, raspberries, or a mix)
- A handful of almonds (sliced or whole, as per your preference)
Instructions
- Mix It Up: In a bowl or a mason jar, combine the coconut milk, chia seeds, and honey. Stir well to ensure the chia seeds are evenly distributed.
- Let It Sit: Cover the bowl or jar and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for a thicker consistency. The chia seeds will absorb the liquid and form a pudding-like texture.
- Berrylicious Topping: Once the pudding is set, give it a good stir. Top it with frozen berries and a handful of almonds. The berries will thaw and add a refreshing flavor while the almonds provide a nice crunch.
- Enjoy: Dig in and savor the creamy, nutty, and berry-packed goodness!
Rediscovering chia seeds has been a delightful journey. They’re a small but mighty addition to my diet, helping me stay energized and healthy as I prepare for my competition.
Whether you’re looking to boost your nutrition, manage your weight, or just enjoy a tasty, healthy treat, chia seeds are worth a try. So, go ahead and give this recipe a shot. I promise it’s as delicious as it is nutritious!
More related reads:
1 thought on “10 Proven Benefits Of Chia Seeds And My Favourite Recipe”