Chia: The Tiny Superfood you Need to Know about
Chia seeds are tiny yet mighty in their nutritional benefits. They swell to 10 times their original size when placed in liquid, making them ideal for thickening puddings and smoothies.
Just a few of the tricks up the sleeves of chia seeds include…
High in omega-3 fatty acids
Great source of soluble and insoluble fiber
More calcium than milk per serving
Higher in antioxidants than blueberries
High in vitamins A, B, D and E
Loaded with magnesium
Good source of protein
Easy to digest and assimilate (low in phytates)
Help balance blood sugar levels and get rid of sugar cravings
Chia is a true superfood. The direct translation of chia means strength in the Mayan language, and was a valuable food of traditional Mayan, Inca and Aztec people. Apparently, they used to trade chia seeds for gold as they were such a valuable source of energy.
Some of my favorite ways to eat chia include soaking them for an hour in coconut milk and a bit of maple syrup and eating that for dessert or breakfast with fresh berries, sprinkling them on salads or soups, adding them to homemade crackers, blending them into my smoothies and of course, delectable chia puddings.
Not only are they highly nutritious, chia seeds are filling and tasty.
Here’s one of my favorite chia seed recipes.
Strawberry Banana Chia Pudding
Ingredients:
2 TBSP ground chia seeds
1 Banana
1 Cup Strawberries
1 cup Unsweetened coconut milk
1 Tbsp Shredded Coconut
1 Tbsp Stevia (or a few drops of liquid stevia) or Monk Fruit
Directions:
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and chill in refrigerator until the chia turns into a pudding consistency, about 20 minutes.
Add all ingredients to your blender and process until super smooth.
Adding chia seeds to your diet is amazing for your gut health, but If you’re seriously interested in getting healthy, restoring your digestion and boosting your energy then schedule a Complimentary Call with me to discuss your next steps.
Also I would love for you to join me on my Facebook group page: Confident Women where I’ll be sharing more information, tips, recipes plus free challenges, giveaways and a way for you to connect with other women sharing the journey with you.
Here’s to Rockyn Your Health,
Dr. Raquel Yarroch, DC FDN-P