This super seed is packed full of nutrients and is most definitely on my top superfoods list. I think it's a daily must as it's loaded with heart-healthy fibre, essential fats, protein and will give you long-lasting energy. Here are more reasons why I recommend you start your day with a little chia:
Nutritional benefits: Chia seeds are a source of amazing long-term energy, which overtime can actually help your body to function at its best and burn more calories throughout the day. Chia also contains a high source of omega-3 fatty acids, similar to flax. Be sure to get dark grayish chia, as it's nutritionally superior to the lighter kind.
Another thing to be aware of is that chia becomes mucilaginous when soaked; so go ahead and make a pudding, jam or add it into your smoothies. Chia can help reduce nervousness, treat insomnia, improve mental focus, and it can become a soothing gel to help lubricate dry skin. If you find you are a little backed up, take a dose of chia and things will move along just fine— it is brilliant for relieving constipation.
How you use it:
Chia seeds can be added directly into a recipe, whether it is a soup, smoothie, salad or your morning porridge—it goes with anything. However, if you want to soak it, place two tablespoons or more in a bowl and cover with some water. Wait about 20 minutes, and it will double in size and you will have a thick gooey pudding. Delicious! You can also add whole seeds or ground chia into baked goods, granola or trail mixes, or use it as a condiment or garnish. I use the seeds as an egg substitute for my baked recipes: 1 tbsp ground chia plus 3 tbsp water or 1/4 cup applesauce is equivalent to one egg.
Where to buy it:
You can get chia seeds at most health food stores in your local area or they can be ordered online. There are many varieties and brands that are widely distributed. I am a big fan of Navitas Naturals Chia, they are clean, pure and fresh tasting!
They come from South America, so if you happen to be traveling down there, be sure to get your hands on some, along with other favourites like quinoa and cacao!
How to store it:
Chia seeds are best stored in a sealed glass jar. You can keep them in the cupboard or place them in the fridge, especially for long-term storage. Ground chia is best kept in the fridge or even the freezer. I love to just keep a small jar on my counter for everyday use; I add about 1 tbsp to my smoothie or cereal every morning.
Super chia breakfast cereal
Ingredients
1/2 cup rolled oats
3/4 cup rice, almond or hemp milk
1 tbsp chia seeds
1 tbsp goji berries or raisins
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1 tbsp raw honey
For a cooked version:
1. Place rolled oats into a pot.
2. Top with “milk", chia, goji and cinnamon.
3. Bring to a low simmer for 5 to 10 minutes, until everything is softened. Keep stirring to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot.
4. Stir in raw honey just before eating.
Makes 1 serving. Enjoy!
For a raw version:
1. Place rolled oats in your bowl and top with “milk” chia, goji berries or other toppings.
2. Allow oats to soak overnight, so it becomes creamy and soft.
3. Stir in cinnamon and honey in the morning.
4. Top with additional fresh berries, banana slices, cacao or coconut flakes.
Makes 1 serving. Enjoy!
Marni
Wasserman is a culinary nutritionist in Toronto whose
philosophy is stemmed around whole foods. She is dedicated to providing
balanced lifestyle choices through natural foods. Using passion and experience,
she strives to educate individuals on how everyday eating can be simple and
delicious.