Chia seeds were once staple foods, much like corn and beans in the diets of both Aztecs and Mayans. Chia actually comes from the Mayan word for ‘strength,’ which should tell you something about these “superseeds”.
They may be small, but they pack a powerful nutritional punch. Chia seeds were consumed thousands of years ago by people who understood their ability to provide energy and stamina that would last a very long time. Today, researchers are rediscovering the nutritional value of chia seeds, including their rich omega-3 fatty acid content, which is being studied for its ability to inhibit cancer growth and reduce insulin resistance.
Chia seeds are truly super because they deliver a huge amount of nutritional benefit for very few calories. They are similar in many ways to flax but you don’t have to grind them to get all of their health promoting benefits.
Rich in fiber, omega fatty acids, antioxidants, protein and calcium, start enjoying chia seeds today. Here are five easy ways to reap the amazing benefits of chia.
Chia Almond Pudding
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 2 tablespoons white almond butter
- 1 cup coconut water
- 1 pinch cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon mesquite powder
- 1 organic date, pitted
Instructions:
- Blend the almond butter and coconut water in a blender until it mixes well.
- Add the date, vanilla, powder, and cinnamon to the blender and blend until mixed in.
- Pour the mixture over the chia seed in a bowl. Let sit for 15 minutes then serve topped with fresh organic fruit.
Chia Energy Bars
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup organic shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup flax seed
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin seed powder
- 1/2 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons coconut nectar
- 2 tablespoons raw dark chocolate chips, chunks, or shavings
- 1 pinch sea salt
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients except chocolate together.
- Press the mixture into a lined baking pan.
- Melt the chocolate in a double boiler over the stove, being careful not to burn.
- Pour the chocolate over the mixture and spread evenly.
- Freeze for 1 hour before serving.
Chia Berry Smoothie
Ingredients:
- 8 tablespoons chia seeds
- 2 cups filtered water
- 2 tablespoons coconut nectar
- 4 tablespoons organic blackberry or other fruit puree
Instructions:
- Soak the chia seeds in the water for 20 minutes in a blender.
- Add remaining ingredients to the blender. Blend until smooth then serve chilled.
Fruit Chia Pudding
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe organic banana
- 1/2 cup organic blueberries
- 1 cup organic raspberries
- 1/2 cup filtered water
- 3 tablespoons chia seeds
- 2 teaspoons raw stevia
- 2 teaspoons acai powder
Instructions:
- Put all ingredients in a blender and mix until smooth.
- Pour into chilled bowls and serve garnished with fresh mint leaves.
Chia Seed Crackers
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups chia seeds
- 3 cups filtered water
- 1/2 cup liquid aminos
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
Instructions:
- Soak the chia seeds in water for 15 minutes.
- Stir in the aminos.
- Add the remaining seeds.
- Spread the mixture thinly on a dehydrator tray and cut into bite size squares.
- Dehydrate at 110 degrees F until crunchy on both sides.
-The Alternative Daily
