Chia Seeds. Are they for you?

Chia Seeds LP2013

Chia seeds are a powerful little addition to your diet and they are making a great comeback on the Healthy Eating Food Circuit. A lot has been written about this little seed, said to have originated in the Aztec and Mayan diet many years ago. Even Dr. Oz has contributed to its popularity by doing segments about it on his TV show. I personally love Chia seeds and I put a TBSP on my oatmeal every morning. But I journal the effects new foods have on my system and I’m very much in tune with what affects me positively and negatively. If you are new to Chia seeds you should keep a food journal to note what, if any, effects they may have on you. While most people rave about the benefits of Chia seeds it is good to know that some people experience negative effects. If you are taking heart or diabetes medication you need to be aware that chia seeds may have an effect on your medication. Here is information on some of the side effects. Negative Health Effects of Chia Seeds.

My rule of thumb is, moderation. We should never assume that because something is deemed healthy for us that we can eat as much as we want. In the case of Chia Seeds, more research would be helpful for those of us who would like to eat it regularly.

The Benefits of Eating Chia Seeds

The reason I like Chia seeds so much is because they can serve as soluble and insoluble fiber. They are also a GREAT source of nutrients especially protein which is great for people looking to cut down or eliminate their animal protein intake. Here is a description of the health benefits of Chia seeds presented by Dr. Axe . 9 Chia Seed Benefits Plus Side Effects.

Cut Down on Cravings with Chia Seeds

If you are someone who has an ongoing battle with cravings, especially as those hours drag in the afternoon, the tiny Chia seed may be your salvation! Check out this very interesting youtube video done by Dr. Oz on the power of Chia seeds to curb snacking. Try Chia Seeds to Stop Snacking

Once you become familiar with the mighty Chia seed you will no doubt check out many of the recipes on the web for their use. Here are my 3 favorite uses for Chia Seeds:

  • I put some in Coconut Water to use as a sports drink when exercising. Coconut water has natural electrolytes which are needed for rehydration during exercise and by putting chia seeds in the water they swell up form a gel and that helps curb your appetite and adds soluble fiber to your system.If you prefer you can also add lemon or lime to the water for added flavor.
  • I soak them and then add them to my steel-cut oatmeal in the morning for added fiber and protein.
  • I make a Chia Pudding which I use as a high protein snack and which is a great substitute for yogurt

    • Chia Pudding Recipe

    This is my favorite Chia Pudding Recipe for 2 reasons. All the ingredients are raw and therefore at their optimal density for nutrients and this one is a great way to try soaked cashews instead of milk alternatives. Thanks to The Farmers Taft for this recipe.

    Ingredients:

  • 1 c. cashews, soaked and rinsed**see note below to substitute cashew milk
  • 2 c. filtered water
  • 2 T. raw honey. (I sometimes use Maple Syrup. My French Canadian roots!)
  • 2 t. vanilla extract
  • 1/2 t. sea salt
  • 2 t. coconut oil
  • 7 T. chia seed

    • Directions:

  • Soak the cashews for at least two hours, then rinse thoroughly.
    **If you prefer, you can use store-bought cashew milk.
    Use 2 cups instead of 1 cup cashews and 2 cups water.
  • Put all ingredients EXCEPT the chia seeds into a high speed blender. Blend on high for about a minute, or until the cashew milk is smooth.
  • Pour the cashew milk into a bowl and stir in about half of the chia seeds, making sure they don’t clump together. Stir in the rest. Cover and put in the refrigerator. Stir after about a half hour, then let sit overnight.

    • Some people eat this for breakfast. I prefer it as a snack.

    If you have never tried soaked cashews this is a great recipe to try as your introduction to this heart healthy fat. If you’re curious about the health benefits of soaked cashews check out the Livestrong website:

    The health benefits of soaked cashews

    Based on what we know about Chia seeds I think they are worth checking out.

    So give them a try and you may join the ranks of fans of this upstart Superfood.

    On April 13, 2013   /   Nutrition, Recipes  

    Healthy Recipes

    Nutrition

    Mushing in Ocean City MD