What’s all the rage with the tiny black seeds taking over the baked goods (muffins in particular), yogurt parfaits, energy drinks, morning oatmeal’s, and nut-milk puddings? Well, surprising enough, the tiny seeds contain so much nutritional value that they are being used left and right in some of our fave and new fave discovered foods! See recipe below post for a healthy, quick and delicious breakfast that provides natural energy (without the caffeine jitters)!
Here’s some background on the powerful chia –
Chia grows in the southern and central parts of Mexico and Guatemala. The Aztecs believed this plant has always been super helpful with overall health. Having used just one tablespoon of chia seeds, warriors were full of energy throughout the day. After the Spanish conquest of chia seeds disappeared from the region, the Spaniards have banned products that have been associated with the Aztec culture and their traditions. Currently, chia seeds are becoming very popular again for their useful properties and there’s a vast production of companies manufacturing them.
HEALTH BENEFITS
Black chia seeds have become popular due to being in “the new” diet recipes for losing weight. Chia seeds are rich in soluble fiber, protein and “slow carbs” (slowly digestible carbohydrates). The combination of these factors gives chia seeds ability to increase burning fat and decrease appetite.
Chia seeds are a great addition to the diet of people with diabetes. The use of chia helps maintain lower blood sugar levels, which is important for diabetics.
OMEGA-3’s
Chia seeds are an excellent source of energy that can help maintain a great level of energy during a grueling workout, or other physical activity. They’re great for breakfast meals because they provide increase in energy without the caffeine. Chia seed oil contains the highest amount of omega-3 fatty acids than any other food. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential to human body because they help prevent many illnesses such as cancer, chronic inflammation and autoimmune diseases.
Due to the large amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, chia seeds are an ideal food for the brain. Adding chia seeds to your diet helps to improve memory, concentration and other cognitive functions. In addition, using chia on a regular basis will result in healthy hair, skin, and overall appearance of an individual because of the powerful omega-3’s.
Because of essential fatty acids, the use of chia seeds on a regular basis helps to reduce overall inflammation in the body. Inflammation is associated with many diseases, such as arthritis, heart disease, and chronic pain.
ANTIOXIDANTS
Chia seeds are high in antioxidants; they contain even more antioxidants than blueberries! The use of chia seeds on a regular basis can help prevent the occurrence of heart disease, stroke and cancer.
Due to large amount of fiber and antioxidants, chia seeds help to detoxify the body. When the fiber is ingested, processed and extracted from the body, toxins are also removed. Antioxidants help to remove waste and toxins, helping to get rid of free radicals.
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk or other nut milk of choice
- 1/2 cup black organic chia seeds
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- Fruit for topping (blueberries and sliced strawberries pictured)
- 3 tablespoons of pre-sliced almonds for topping
- In a large bowl, combine almond/nut milk, chia seeds, vanilla extract and maple syrup.
- Stir well until the mixture begins to thicken. Store covered in the fridge overnight or for at least an hour.
- Stir well before serving. Add a little bit of water to the pudding if it becomes too thick.
- Top with blueberries, sliced strawberries and almonds or nuts/fruit of choice.
I have eaten various kinds of peas, lentils and legumes but Chia seeds are still completely new to me. I will definitely have to look for these in grocery store and try them.
Chia seeds are highly nutritious and make an awesome and quick breakfast – following my recipe. They provide natural energy and contain more antioxidants than blueberries!! Let me know if you try them, and let me know what you think!