Ch-ch-ch-chia…Seeds!
You have probably had the Chia Pet jingle stuck in your head, but have you ever thought to stick Chia Seeds into your diet? These tiny seeds are gaining a lot of attention, for they are surprisingly packed with nutrients. Just one ounce (or two tablespoons) of Chia Seeds contains 138 calories, 4 grams of protein, 11 grams of fiber, plus omega-3 fatty acids which all contribute to a healthy diet!
Chia seeds stem from the Salvia Hispanica plant which is part of the mint family. They are believed to have been a big part of the Aztecs’ diet. The seeds come in black or white, and have a mild flavor which makes them easy to add to foods such as yogurt, cereal, and salads. Some research has shown that Chia Seeds aid in weight loss by expanding in the stomach, helping you feel fuller for longer. However more research is needed.
One of the coolest things about Chia Seeds is their ability to form pudding! Chia Seed pudding can be made using a variety of ingredients, but here is a simple vanilla pudding recipe:
Vanilla Chia Seed Pudding
1 cup milk (skim milk, soy milk, almond milk, etc)
3 tablespoons Chia Seeds
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cinnamon
Directions: Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir. Cover the bowl and refrigerate overnight to achieve desired thickness.
