Chia Seeds have gained a lot of popularity in the recent years because of its many health benefits. It's known to aid weight loss and boost energy levels. Chia seeds are a member of the mint family, they are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and essential minerals like calcium and iron. Additionally, it's one of the richest plant sources of omega-3 fatty acids. And on top of it all, the seeds are 20% protein, which is great news for your muscles!
They are thought to keep your waistline trim, by sucking up to 10-12 times their weight and forming a gel in your stomach which can curb your calorie intake and give you a feeling of satiety for a longer period of time. Also, they slow down the digestive process that breaks down carbs in order to convert them into sugar. So there are fewer carbs to feed the fat tissue around your waist.
Probably the best thing about these seeds is that they are incredibly versatile. You can dump a few tablespoons of Chia into your protein shake before your hit the gym, you can sprinkle it over your salads, make delicious puddings, and even cook with it. So, not only are they super healthy, but they are easy to use and make life a tad easier.
Healthy Chia Seeds Recipes
Chia Seeds Nutrition Facts
Amount per 100 grams
- Calories – 486
- Fat – 31 g
- Sodium – 16 mg
- Potassium – 407 mg
- Total Carbohydrate – 42 g
- Dietary Fiber – 34 g
- Protein – 17 g
- Vitamin A – 1%
- Vitamin C – 2%
- Iron – 42%
- Calcium – 63%
- Magnesium – 83%
Raspberry-Chia Jam
This is a very easy recipe you can do very quickly and enjoy immediately. Mix 1 tablespoon of chia seeds in 2 tablespoons of water and let them soak for 10 minutes. Put the soaked seeds in a blender and add 1 cup of raspberries and 2 tablespoons or honey. Now blend until you're happy with the texture. Enjoy!
Avocado-Chia Pudding
You will need 2 ripe avocados, about a 100 g of honey or maple syrup, 40g of cocoa powder, 3 tablespoons of extra virgin coconut oil, one teaspoon of vanilla extract and a teaspoon of chia seeds. Now combine all the ingredients and blend them until they have a smooth texture. Leave it in the fridge for about 30 minutes and allow the chia to thicken. Serve with chopped almonds and cocoa nibs.
Chia Meatballs
You need 1 lb. of ground beef, 2 tablespoons of organic tomato paste, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 2 teaspoons of Italian herbs, 1 teaspoon of sea salt, 1 teaspoon of pepper, 2 tablespoons of chia seeds, and 2 teaspoons of pure avocado oil. Now combine all these ingredients in a large bowl, except the avocado oil which you'll use later, and stir with a fork. Leave it for 10 minutes and allow the chia to thicken. Next, heat a skillet and add the avocado oil. Scoop the chia meatballs and pat them into a round shape. Cook them until they are brown and remember to turn them on their sides and they are completely done!
Cucumber Chia Salad
You need one large thinly sliced cucumber, half a sliced onion, 1-2 tablespoons of rice vinegar, one tablespoon of your favorite sweetener (stevia, agave nectar, honey), salt to taste and half a tablespoon of chia seeds. Combine all of the ingredients together, except for the chia seeds. Let it sit before an hour and sprinkle the chia seeds on the salad right before you serve it.
Spiciy Pineapple Chia Jam
You need 2 cups of chopped pineapple, a quarter cup of diced hot pepper, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, 2 tablespoons of honey, 2-3 cups of water and 2 and half tablespoons of chia seeds. Combine the pepper, pineapple, pepper flakes and water in a saucepan and bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Let it boil for 30 minutes on low heat, until the pineapple is soft and the liquid starts to evaporate. Add the chia seeds to the mix and stir constantly for 5 minutes. Allow the mixture to cool and the jam to solidify. Enjoy!
As you can see, Chia Seeds are easy to use and cook with. Incorporate them into your diet for a boost of energy. Whether your goal is to lose weight or to gain more muscle mass, Chia Seeds will work to your advantage. They have many health benefits and they will help improve the quality of your diet overall. Chia Seeds will help you feel fuller for longer.
Plus, they are easy to get creative with! Don’t be afraid to try your own mixtures for pudding, parfaits, smoothies and salads. Try to mix your favorite choice of milk with the seeds and add your favorite berries to it, give it a name, and you have your own Chia Recipe! What is your favorite Chia Recipe so far? Let us know!