The small but mighty chia seed packs a big nutritional punch. They are well known for their high fiber content and healthy omega-3 fats. These tiny seeds also have a unique characteristic. If you put them in liquid, and give them a little time, they can absorb almost 10 times their weight in water. They have the ability to swell and gelatinize, so they go from crunchy and small to a larger chewy texture. The most common way people enjoy chia seeds is in overnight oats, pudding and smoothies. They add an ample supply of nutrients and they can be a thickening agent.
Adding about 2 tablespoons of chia seeds per day to your diet can help lower cholesterol, stabilize your blood sugar and help make you feel full longer. All seeds and nuts can promote digestive health while also providing essential nutrients. Chia puddings and overnight oat mixtures can be added to pancakes, waffles, muffins and a variety of treats to add texture and nutrition. If you are looking to incorporate chia seeds into your regular routine check out the Clearly by Best Choice Blog for recipes and meal planning ideas!
