The Benefits of Chia Seeds PLUS Chia Seed Recipes

Words: Crush

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The chia plant, a species of the mint family, produces the tiny miracle workers that are chia seeds. These little oval seeds are the one of many products to have hit the superfood aisle in the last few years. Pretty much good for anything and with a mild, nutty flavour, the seeds are easily absorbed by the body and can be sprinkled onto most things you eat.

Not only are they crammed with omega-3, calcium and iron, chia can aid weight loss. The seeds have a stabilising effect on blood sugar which can also fight insulin resistance, which can be tied to increased belly fat.

They also contain trypotphan, which can not only help you get a better night’s sleep but can also assist in regulating your appetite, as well as improving your mood.

Available at most health food shops, stock up on these tiny superheroes and use them in muffins, snack bars, dips and salad dressings. You can even use them as a thickening agent in jams and in other dishes where normal thickening agents can’t be used. Need more convincing? How about sneaking into a smoothie?

With more Omega-3’s than salmon, more calcium than milk, more iron than spinach (sorry, Popeye!) and tons of protein and fibre, there’s no denying that they pack some serious power in their minuscule form.

Try these recipes using chia seeds…

Warm Milk Tart Flavoured Chia Pudding

Chia seeds at surprisingly tasty, low carb and have a natural thickening quality that makes them the perfect ingredient for desserts. We love this one that brings in the flavour of an SA classic – Milk Tart.