I’m sure you’ve all heard of chia seeds. But if I had to guess…many of you have probably wondering what the heck they are, and what all the fuss is about them!
Chia seeds have been around for many years, dating all the way back to the 16th century. Since this time, chia seeds have been used a number of ways. The seeds are very tiny, and come in a number of different colors. Although the seeds are tiny, their health benefits are enormous! Here are the 3 main health benefits of chia seeds:
1. Chia seeds are loaded with omega 3 fatty acids. Omega 3 fatty acids are known for helping lower the level of fat in your blood (triglycerides), reducing inflammation in the body, reducing the effects of arthritis, and assist in maintaining your metabolism.
2. Chia seeds have high levels of B Vitamins (thiamine, niacin, riboflavin, and folate) and minerals like calcium, iron and magnesium. A single serving of chia seeds can provide you up to 20% of the daily values of each of these vitamins/minerals.
3. Chia seeds are high in antioxidants which can help protect your body from cancer and free radicals.
I’ve tried a lot of chia seeds, but my favorite brand is without a doubt Salba Smart. Salba Smart chia is one of the most nutrient dense chia brands on the market. There are a few key things that set it apart from regular chia. Salba chia has no trans fat, is gluten-free, and is loaded with all the good stuff I mentioned before (omega 3 fatty acids, iron, magnesium, calcium) When tested against regular chia, it has higher levels of Omega3’s and protein. It is grown under controlled conditions in South America and it is the only chia product with non-GMO varieties of its original plant.
Salba Smart offers two versions of their chia seeds: whole and ground. They come in Pouches, Organic Jars or Single Serving Boost Packets (which are great for on-the-go). If you haven’t tried chia yet, and are wondering how to incorporate it into your diet… check out these 10 easy ways to get your daily chia fix!
1. In smoothies/shakes. Throw a tablespoon of chia into your green smoothie or protein shake. You will barely even notice the difference.. and you’ll be getting extra nutrients.
2. As an egg substitute. When you mix chia seeds with water they make a gel-like substance. Mix 1 tablespoon of chia seeds with 1/4 c water and allow it to sit for a few minutes. Use it as a replacement for an egg in your usual baking.
3. As a salad topping. If you like crunchy toppings like croutons, seeds or nuts in your salads – you’ll love chia seeds. They’re a perfect topping to any salad!
4. In your drink. I really enjoy throwing a Boost packet of Salba chia into my water bottle. As mentioned earlier, when you mix the chia seeds with water, they form a gel-like substance. It is a nice little change from plain water. This Grapefruit Chia Fizz from Run Wiki is another option that is light and refreshing.
5. In your baked goods. Chia seeds go well in pretty much any muffins, breads, cakes and cookies. I put mine on top of our Berry French Toast and they added the perfect crunch.
6. To make pudding. I’ll admit, at first I was not a huge fan of the texture of chia pudding.. but I’ve grown to love it! This Chocolate Chia Pudding from Awakened Nutrition is tastes decadent, but is really guilt-free.
7. As breadcrumbs. Chia seeds make a wonderful substitute for breadcrumbs. They create a crispy outer coating when used as breading.
8. In jam. If you’re still buying store-bought jam.. you’ve got to start making your own. If you’re already on the home-made jam train, and want to start kicking it up a notch – add some chia to it! I love this Nectarine Jam from The Fit Cookie.
9. In granola. Chia seeds are one of the main ingredients in my Winter Spice Granola.. They add a nice little crunch to the mixture.
10. In yogurt or oatmeal. If you enjoy starting your day with a warm bowl of oatmeal, or snacking on a yogurt – try adding some chia seeds to it.
Wishing you had some chia seeds to try out in these creative recipes? Head over to our Instagram to enter to win a prize pack from Salba Chia!
Disclaimer: These chia seeds were provided to us free of charge by Salba Chia but all thoughts and opinions are my own and uninfluenced by the company.
