Chia seeds have really grown in popularity over the last 10years or so and there is not a health food store or even supermarket that won’t have them stocked. I shared my chia seed recipe last week so thought I would go a bit more in-depth with what makes this tiny little seed a superfood.

Chia seeds are an excellent source of omega-3’s, fibre, antioxidants, protein and vitamins and minerals.

 

Chia seeds are good for your digestive health

Chia seeds contain about 10grams of fibre per 2 tablespoons which is nearly half your daily requirement of fibre! Because of the rich fibre content chia seeds do wonders for our digestive health. The fibre not only acts as a prebiotic feeding the good bacteria in our gut, but also helps promote

regularity.

 

Chia seeds are rich in antioxidants

Chia seeds are a great way to get more antioxidants into your diet. Antioxidants are important in protecting our cells from free radical damage and inflammation which can lead a whole range of different illnesses and premature ageing!

 

Chia seeds help improve heart health

Chia seeds contain more omega-3’s than salmon gram for gram! Although it’s important to remember that the omega-3’s found in chia are ALA (alpha linolineic acid) which still need to be converted to EPA and DHA (the omega’s found in salmon) for our bodies to use it. The antioxidants found in chia seeds help reduce inflammation which can help decrease risk factors for heart disease. The high level of fibre help reduce bad cholesterol which also improves our cardiovascular health.

 

Chia seeds keep our bones strong

Chia seeds contain calcium,manganese and phosphorus which are both crucial minerals in keeping our bones and teeth strong a healthy. Calcium is one of the most important minerals involved in the treatment and prevention of conditions such as osteoporosis.

 

Chia seeds are a good source of protein.

Chia seeds are a good source of plant based protein with around 4-5g per a tablespoon. A good addition to anyones diet but especially those who don't eat animal protein.

 

 

 

Chia seeds can be added to the diet in many ways, some of my favourite ways to include them…

 

  • sprinkled on top of your yoghurt or porridge in the morning,
  • soaked and made into chia pudding (see my recipe below)
  • blended into a smoothie or soup
  • Added to your homemade granola recipe
  • Added to your favourite muffin or banana bread recipe

 

 

Chia Pudding

 

Chia pudding is an easy to make nutritious treat that can be eaten anytime of the day!

 

Chia seeds are full of fibre and great for our digestive system! The fibre in addition acts as prebiotic feeding all the healthy bacteria in our gut. Look out for my next blog where I write about all the other amazing benefits of this ‘superfood’

 

Ingredients

 

2 tablespoons chia seeds

1 tablespoon agave syrup

1/2 cup koko coconut milk

 

Method

 

  1. Mix the chia seeds and agave syrup together to form a very thick mixture.
  2. Slowly add in the milk stirring until there are no lumps.
  3. Pour into a mason jar and put in the fridge.
  4. After about 15minutes give it another stir to make sure the chia seeds haven't gone to the bottom.
  5. Put back in the fridge for at least 1hr.
  6. Serve with toppings of your choice, I personally love fresh berries!