Chia seeds are considered to be one of those natural ingredients that contain a great amount of nutrients despite being small in size. Chia seeds can soak up an excessive amount of water; almost 12 times more than its own weight.
Therefore, these seeds help to tame untimely hunger, making you feel full and also aiding in losing unwanted weight.
Benefits of chia seeds
Chia seeds are filled with numerous essential micronutrients including vitamin B, folate, magnesium, phosphorous, zinc, calcium, and iron. Apart from being great for people who are intolerant to gluten, chia seeds also help to facilitate good digestion and regulate the levels of blood sugar.
Once they are soaked, chia seeds start to expand and become softer. They also get a velvety and silky texture. You can put them in cold coffees, shakes, and smoothies or you can sprinkle them over salads.
You can also use them in delicious dips. They are used popularly in granola bars, muffins, and bread. You can even add them to trail mixes and cereals as well. In short, there are numerous ways to include chia seeds in your diet.
Here are 4 of the best recipes if you want to incorporate chia seeds for a healthier lifestyle.
- Strawberries and cream pudding
Chia seed is the most ideal replacement for rice puddings and processed bread that are filled with empty calories and refined carbs. Since chia seeds can soak water and they form a substance similar to gel which resembles a few desserts such as puddings.
Of course, there are a lot of ingredients you can add to make a healthy and delicious breakfast pudding, however, the combination of lime, strawberries, and coconut is decadent and sweet while also being fresh and light because of the acidity provided by the lime.
- Chia and coconut protein pancakes
Pancakes that are made with coconut flour and are topped with unsweetened coconut flakes make a different breakfast item in term of taste than the traditional plain pancakes or blueberry pancakes.
If you add good-quality whey protein along with chia seeds then not only do you get a different and healthy breakfast, but you also get a satisfying source of fiber and protein. As a result, you remain focused and full for a longer period. Adding chia seeds to pancakes can also be a great way to make your kids eat them.
- Chia seeds and quinoa protein bars
The majority of protein bars have a whole list of processed ingredients which usually lead to numerous digestive problems. So, instead of going for the harmful protein bars, you can make your own.
Homemade bars can work as a healthy option for breakfast-on-the-go or as a fulfilling snack for the afternoon. The packaged protein bars contain agave; however, you can replace the ingredient with local raw honey since it reduces inflammation, provides minerals and vitamins, and appeases the sweet tooth without causing any negative health effects.
- Pumpkin pie and chia seeds oatmeal
The easiest way to add chia seeds in your breakfast is to add them to your oatmeal. The combination of chia seeds and pumpkin makes breakfast a good source of fiber. As a result, your digestive smooth will keep functioning smoothly.
Cinnamon, along with the high content of fiber works to keep the level of blood sugar stable throughout the day. Just make sure that you add water more than the normal amount when you make your oats with chia seeds.
This is because the seeds will soak a lot of liquid thus making the oats dense. You can also experiment with other nuts, fruits, and other healthy toppings you prefer if you get bored with the pumpkin and chia seed combination.
