5 Delicious Ways You Can Reap The Benefits Of Chia Seeds

The benefits of chia seeds are many. In fact, it is an energy food that began to gain fame around the world since its wonderful properties were revealed.

Coming from Guatemala and Mexico, they are one of the so-called “superfoods”, due to the incredible nutritional composition that characterizes them. In addition, they have a slight nutty flavor that can be combined with many other ingredients to facilitate their incorporation into the diet.

On the other hand, they stand out because they are a healthy source of essential omega 3 fatty acids, soluble and insoluble fiber, proteins and many other substances that provide incredible health benefits.

Nowadays, more and more people are encouraged to consume them, and not only because they help to lose weight in a healthy way. One of the benefits of chia seeds is that, according to some studies, they protect cardiovascular health, fitness, and many other body systems.

For this reason, this time we want to share 5 delicious ways to incorporate them into your diet. So you can take advantage of all its properties.

1. Yogurt with chia seeds

The combination of yogurt with chia seeds gives us a quick and complete alternative for a healthy breakfast. It contains proteins, probiotics and other essential nutrients that help keep the body full of energy throughout the day.

Optionally, some fruits can be added to give it a more delicious flavor and an extra antioxidant. Perfect to start the day right.

Ingredients

• 1 Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon of chia seeds (14 g)
• Fruits to taste (we suggest banana, kiwi or strawberry)

How to prepare it?

• Put the Greek yogurt in a glass and add the chopped fruits.
• Sprinkle chia seeds on top and consume.

2. Chia seed cakes

Chia seed cakes are a good option to replace commercial options that are often loaded with calories and added substances. This natural recipe helps calm the feeling of hunger  and gives the whole body a boost of energy.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of wheat flour (400 g)
• 1 tablespoon of chia seeds (14 g)
• ½ glass of water (100 ml)
• Salt to taste)
• 3 tablespoons of chopped nuts (20 g)
• Olive oil (as necessary)

How to prepare them?

• Put all the ingredients in a bowl, except the olive oil.
• Mix until you get a thick dough and cover with a cloth for 30 minutes.
• After this time, take small portions of dough and form the cakes.
• Add the olive oil to a skillet and cook them on both sides over moderate heat.

3. Chia seed jam

Due to their versatility, these seeds can also be incorporated into homemade jam recipes. With these not only a very special touch of flavor is achieved, but interesting benefits are obtained for the diet.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of chia seeds (28 g)
• ½ cup of cherry juice (you can use other fruit juices) (125 ml)
• Honey or sweetener (to taste)

How to prepare it?

• Pour the two tablespoons of chia seeds into the juice and leave it in the refrigerator for an hour or two.
• After this time, its consistency will be thick and you just have to add the sweetener you prefer.

4. Chia seed and papaya smoothie

This delicious chia seed and papaya smoothie has digestive, anti-inflammatory and energetic properties that will provide your body with many benefits.

Take it to combat constipation, abdominal inflammation and the constant episodes of fatigue that prevent you from fulfilling your tasks for the day.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cup of almond milk (375 ml)
• 2 slices of ripe papaya
• 1 tablespoon of chia seeds (14 g)

How to prepare it?

• Beat the almond milk and the papaya slices in the blender.
• Get a homogeneous drink, serve it and sprinkle the tablespoon of chia seeds on top.
• Let it sit for 30 minutes and consume it.

5. Ice cream with chia seeds

While ice cream contains a significant amount of calories and fat, enriching it with the benefits of chia seeds is a healthy way to occasionally delight the palate.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of chia seeds (28 g)
• ½ cup ice cream (flavor to taste) (107 g)
• ⅓ cup of chopped fruit (50 g)

• 1 tablespoon of chopped nuts (7 g) (optional)

How to prepare it?

• Add some ice cream to a glass and top it with a serving of fruit and chia seeds.
• Pour in the rest of the ice cream and garnish it with more seeds and chopped nuts.

Still haven’t tried these wonderful seeds? Buy them in health food stores or supermarkets and enjoy them with these delicious ideas. Of course, you can add them to salads, soups, bakery recipes, and many others.