CHIA SEEDS: ALL OF THE GOOD THEY HAVE TO OFFER + SOME WAYS TO ENJOY THEM

Chia seeds (or what you may also see labeled as "salba") originate from Mexico and Guatemala; they are not a new “super food”, infact they have been a staple crop in many Central American cultures for a very long time.

Chia actually belongs to the mint family and is a pretty hearty crop; as a desert plant it requires little water and grows very well in dry soil.

Chia seeds offer some great nutritional benefits including:

• Protein

• Fibre

• Omega-3 fatty acids

• Plant-based source of calcium

• Magnesium

• Phosphorous

Chia is packed with antioxidants, it has great anti-inflammatory properties and it can help to balance blood sugar making it a great addition to your daily routine.

Chia swells in water giving it a gelatinous texture, if you do not like the gelatinous texture you can simply grind it up for use instead.

There are many easy ways to incorporate them into your routine and because they really don’t have much of a taste they are perfect for smoothies, sprinkled over salads, cereal or yogurt. The gelatinous texture makes them perfect for a thick pudding or as a substitute for pectin in jams.

One of my favourite ways to add chia into my routine is in a great overnight chia pudding like this one:

You can choose to add whatever additional fruits you like but the ratio for chia seed to liquid base is 3 tablespoons of chia seed for every 1 cup of liquid

Place your liquid base of choice (rice milk, almond milk, greek yogurt) into a mason jar, add the chia seed, close lid and give it a shake until mixed.

Add to the top whatever fruits you select (blueberry, strawberry etc.) close lid and place in the fridge for at least 8 hours

You can add more fresh fruits as you wish in the morning before enjoying

What is your favourite way to enjoy chia in your meal planning? Leave a comment at the bottom of the page.

Sending A Wish Your Way For A Well BALANCED Day

Jenny