As I was creating, devouring, and sharing this incredible breakfast bowl, I was surprised to see how many people weren’t familiar with chia seeds.
What are Chia Seeds?
Chia is a member of the mint family that grows abundantly in southern Mexico. These seeds are rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids and antioxidants, and they also provide calcium, fiber, iron, and magnesium. Chia seeds were an important energy source for Mayans, Incas and other ancient cultures, and remain a dietary staple in many South and Central American countries.
Why Eat Chia Seeds?
The benefits of chia seeds, also known as salvia hispanica, are plentiful! Chia seeds can be eaten raw or in a variety of recipes. Many people even drink them in their favorite juices and smoothies. Chia seeds are important in hydration. They can hold 9x their weight in water, which is why they have caught the attention of distance runners.
Chia also…
* Provides energy
* Boosts strength
* Bolsters endurance
* Levels blood sugar
* Induces weight loss
* Aids intestinal regularity
What Should You Do with Chia?
My favorite way to eat chia seeds is for breakfast before a long run. I love Overnight Oats and of course the Dough Boy Smoothie. My newest discovery is this Breakfast Chia Bowl. Chia is a wonderful addition to smoothies and shakes and it’s texture, when mixed with water, lends itself to gels and puddings.
Here are some new recipes to try…
Chia Pomegranate Pudding
From Dr. Oz
1 oz ground chia seeds
3/4 cup pomegranate juice
Directions
Mix ingredients together in small bowl. Let sit for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Chia Tea
10 oz of your favorite iced tea
1 tablespoon chia seeds
Sweeten to taste
Directions
Stir chia seeds into tea for about 10 minutes, and enjoy.
Chia Ice Pops (this is great for hot summer runs)
1 c frozen strawberries
1 c frozen mango chunks
.5 c orange juice
1/3 c chia seeds
1/4 c water
Directions
Processes all ingredients in a high powered blender and liquefy. Pour into ice-cube or popsicle molds, and freeze.
Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding
From Shape Magazine
1/4 cup of chia seeds
3/4 cup of almond milk
1 tbsp. cocoa powder
Small spoonful of sugar (1 – 2 tsp.)
Directions
Combine chia seeds and almond milk. Stir in cocoa powder and sugar. Let sit for 30 minutes or overnight until mixture has thickened. Stir and enjoy!
Raw Spring Power Applesauce
From Raw Vegan Chef
2 cups baby spinach, gently packed
3 apples, cored and chopped
1/4 cup chia seeds
juice from 2 oranges
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
dash ground nutmeg
Directions
Put all of the ingredients in a food processor, fitted with the “S” blade.
Briefly process until the ingredients resemble chunky applesauce.
Enjoy! (Note: if you wait 10-15 minutes before serving, the chia seeds will gel with the orange juice for a brilliant texture.)
More Recipes…
Chia Fresca From Oh She Glows!
Crockpot Apple Crumble Breakfast Pudding
Honey Whole Wheat Chia Seed Pancakes from PB Fingers
Chia Energy Bars from No Meat Athlete
Do you eat chia seeds?
What is your favorite chia recipe?
For more information about Chia Seeds, here are the Top 10 Benefits of Chia Seeds and 10 Unique Uses for Chia Seeds from Wellness Mama.
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