Trend: Chia Seeds
What are chia seeds?
Long before they became a smoothie staple, chia seeds were eaten by the Mayan’s and Aztecs as an everyday food staple. Back then, they were perceived as having magical properties thanks to their ability to provide strength and stamina, so it’s no surprise that they are still labelled as a ‘superfood’.
The tiny seeds, most commonly black or brown in colour, originate from a South American plant from the mint family, and have historically been used as a cure for a whole host of ailments.
As chia seeds are predominately fibre, these little seeds can absorb a huge amount of liquid; 12 times their weight to be exact. And if you can get past their somewhat divisive gel-like consistency, are a great nutritional treat….
Are they worth the hype?
You no longer have to struggle through a bowl of bran flakes to get your daily dose of fibre; chia seeds are a huge 40% fibre, making them one of the most potent sources around. They are also one of the best sources of plant-based protein, which is vital for those who steer clear of meat and fish. Thanks to the fibre and protein, chia seeds can aid digestion, muscle repair as well as encourage weight loss.
The benefits don’t stop there, chia seeds are full of essential nutrients and vitamins such as calcium, magnesium and zinc. Most surprisingly though on a gram-by-gram basis they actually contain more omega 3 then salmon, making them amazing for boosting brain functionality and consequently the perfect morning kick starter.
As if the above wasn’t enough, chia seeds are most commonly renowned for their high levels of antioxidants. Thanks to modern day stresses and environment we have an increasing amount of free radicals roaming around our body, antioxidant rich foods help combat this, helping to slow the signs of aging and most importantly reduce the risk of inflammatory diseases such as heart disease.
Shall I start eating chia seeds?
These little seeds really are nutritional powerhouses and definitely worth a place in your next shopping basket.
The best thing about chia seeds, apart from their pretty impressive nutritional stats, is that they are so versatile. Due to their consistency and the fact that they are pretty much tasteless, they can be added to a whole range of meals, from your morning breakfast smoothie to your afternoon ‘healthy’ brownie.
Try adding a couple of tablespoons into your next smoothie, as a substitute to other, less healthy, toppings. Another simple way of using them is in a chia pudding, all you need is some nut/coconut milk, chia seeds and honey and you have yourself a filling and delicious breakfast to go!
Chia seeds can be used in so many recipes to ‘bind’ ingredients, such as chia jams, pancakes, dips or even as an egg replacement in baking!
As with all new ingredients, all you need to do is start Googling and you will find 101 ways to start to use these seeds,the key is to start experimentingand find out how you like yours.
Verdict
Don’t let size fool you, this little seed packs a punch – fact.
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