Chia seeds seem to be the latest & greatest thing….since sliced bread??!! LOL
What is this “new” superfood all about & how can we reap the benefits???
Well this seed is from the Sage family…& was eaten by the Incas, Mayans & Aztecs regularly. Chia is a Mayan word meaning strength. It gives you incredible endurance & has sooo many positive qualities – why wouldn’t you include it in your healthy eating plan?!
Chia seeds:
- Are a complete protein, providing all the essential amino acids & have 2 times the protein than any other grain or seed.
- Contains 5 times more calcium than milk.
- Have 3 times more antioxidant properties than blueberries – store dry for up to 4 years.
- Have 3 times more iron than spinach.
- Contain huge amounts of omega 3 & 6 (per gram has more than salmon) needed to boost your hair, skin, heart & brain.
- Are a dieters dream since they absorb water & form a gel, which gives a feeling of fullness quicker & also acts as a physical barrier between carbohydrates when eaten together. This slows down the absorption of sugars & gives you more endurance.
- Soaked seeds are easily digested & act like an intestinal broom sweeping out accumulated wastes. The added fibre aids stool formation & regularity.
- Can be added to sweet or savoury foods….very versatile.
- Are gluten free & inexpensive.
Soak 1/3C chia seeds in 2C water/juice/almond milk or whatever liquid you like, to form a gel within 10 minutes. You can make up a batch & keep refrigerated for up to 2 weeks to add into smoothies, pudding, granola or try these recipes below.
‘Chia Fresca’
2 tsp chia seeds
10oz pure water
juice of one lemon or lime
agave syrup or raw honey to taste
2 tsp chia seeds
10oz pure water
juice of one lemon or lime
agave syrup or raw honey to taste
This is still a popular drink in modern-day Mexico. Simply stir the ingredients together and enjoy.
Persi-nana Chia
4-5 tbsp chia seeds
1-2 bananas
1-2 persimmons
1tsp maca
1 tsp cinnamon
handful of goji berries
handful of pumpkin seeds
4-5 tbsp chia seeds
1-2 bananas
1-2 persimmons
1tsp maca
1 tsp cinnamon
handful of goji berries
handful of pumpkin seeds
Blend together the bananas and persimmons. Pour out the mixture into a bowl. Stir in the chia seeds, maca, cinnamon, gojis and pumpkin seeds. Leave the chia to soak for at least 10 minutes before consuming.
Raw ‘Rice Pudding’
4-5 tbsp chia seed
2 cups almond milk
raw honey or agave syrup to taste
Combine the ingredients to your taste. Leave the chia to soak for at least 10 minutes before consuming. You can also add other flavours like vanilla, cinnamon or cardamom.