If you don’t already use chia seeds, you are missing out!
Not only are they gluten/grain free naturally, but one tablespoon of Chia Seeds has more calcium than a glass of milk, more Omega-3s than Salmon, and more antioxidants than blueberries. Perfect? Almost… they do get stuck in your teeth if you chew them plain…
They also give you tons of energy but also won’t keep you awake at night and are supposed to be great for weight loss. Because they can absorb many times their size/weight in liquid, they are great for preventing dehydration during exercise or exposure to heat. Chia means “strength” in the Mayan language, and they were known as the “Indian Running Food” because runners and warriors would use them for sustenance while running long distances or during battle. Chia Seeds are by far one of the most nutrient dense food per ounce, but many people don’t know how to use them. All of us at LoveSurf LOVE CHIA! So, we have outlined some ways to get the best out of this Superfood, so you and your body can reap the benefits.
Give this “Indian Running Food” a try:
1. To Make Healthy Pudding
Chia seeds make awesome pudding! It’s easy to make and actually really healthy. Our go-to recipe is:
- 2 cups of coconut milk or other milk
- ½ cup chia seeds
- 2-3 tablespoons cocoa powder (or to taste)(optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon or more sweetener of choice (optional)- We use honey or a few drops of Agave Syrup
Put in a blender and blend until smooth. Will thicken in about 10 minutes in the fridge.
There are endless flavor variations. You can omit the cocoa powder and vanilla and add a cup of strawberries for a strawberry version, or add cinnamon and nutmeg for a Chai Chia Pudding. If you want to amp up the protein even more, replace the cocoa powder and vanilla with light protein powder.
2. Sprouted for Salads
Ever had little sprouts on a salad at a restaurant? You can make them yourself. Just put some chia seeds in water, drain the water off and leave in a jar for a couple days. Every 12 hours or so, rinse with water and pour the water off. In a day or two, you’ll have little chia sprouts!
3. To Make Homemade Energy Gel
Seen the commercial for those new (corn syrup filled) Energy Gels and Chews? Here’s a healthier variation: Add a couple tablespoons of chia seeds to a cup of coconut water. Let sit for about ten minutes and you’ll have an incredible energy gel! Beats the socks off of Gatorade for hydration and energy and you get to avoid the fake colors, fake flavors and GMO corn.
x
LoveSurf
Healthy Eating: 3 Ways to Use Chia Seeds was originally published on LOVESURF
