Chia Seeds aren’t just used to create a fun “pet” anymore. There are so many everyday uses for these tiny balls of nutritional denseness. Chia Seeds have been allegedly traced back to Aztecs, Mayans and Incas as a source of sustenance and energy. Meaning “strength” in the Mayan language, Chia Seeds were also known as the “Indian Running Food”.
Check out just some of the amazing nutritional benefits packed into each serving of Chia Seeds:
- Essential fatty acids alpha-linolenic and linoleic acid
- Mucin
- Strontium
- Protein
- Vitamins A, B, E, and D
- Calcium
- Phosphorus
- Potassium
- Sulphur
- Iron
- Iodine
- Copper
- Zinc
- Sodium
- Magnesium
- Manganese
- Niacin
- Thiamine
- Silicon
- anti-oxidants
Naturally gluten free, one tablespoon has more calcium than a glass of milk. There are so many more benefits than that, though. Chia Seeds are great for weight loss, supply energy, prevent dehydration, prolong endurance, and aid intestinal regularity. Here a few innovative ways use to Chia Seeds.
Seven Innovative Ways To Use Chia Seeds
1. A Safe Egg Substitute
To substitute for an egg, use 1 tablespoon finely ground Chia Seeds and 3 tablespoons water per egg. Not only does this make the recipe vegetarian/vegan friendly, it also makes it healthier.
2. A Thickener for Soups or Gravies
Add a couple of tablespoons of Chia Seeds at a time until you reach the desired thickness.
3. A Grain Free Cracker
There are several different cracker recipes out there, but we like this one.
4. An Alternative for Sprouts in Salads
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 then pour the water out. In a day or so, you’ll have Chia-sprouts.
5. A Homemade Energy Gel
Add a couple tablespoons of Chia Seeds to a cup of coconut water and let sit for ten minutes. After, you’ll have a gel comparable to Gatorade for hydration and energy without all the artificial ingredients!
6. A Healthy Pudding
One easy Chia Seed recipe is:
– 2 cups coconut milk or other milk
– ½ cup Chia Seeds
– 2-3 tablespoons cocoa
– 1 teaspoon of Vanilla (or to taste)
– 1 tablespoon or more sugar (or other sweetener of choice)
Blend in blender until smooth. It will thicken within 10 minutes in the fridge. For other tasty variations, remove the cocoa and add your favorite fruits/
7. A Quick Snack
For a quick easy breakfast, chew a couple tablespoons of plain Chia Seeds. It’ll leave you feeling full and provide hours of energy. They’ll stick to your teeth, so make sure to wash them down with your beverage of choice. If you aren’t a fan of the raw foods movement, try a Chia gel. Add a bit of water and let the mixture sit for about 10 mintues. The gel will have the same nutritional value but might be easier to munch on.
The uses for Chia Seeds are endless. But these seven suggestions are a great way to ease Chia Seeds into your daily life. The possibilities and health benefits are tremendous – so grab some seeds today!
Guest author Katie Sorrick is a health and fitness writer. She loves experimenting with different health recipes. Chia Seeds are her new favorite health obsession. Katie recently shared her thoughts about the extensive health benefits of Chia Seeds in this detailed article.
