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While chia seeds might have initially been considered a fad – much like the short-lived cabbage soup diet, chia water is one health trend that is not likely destined to fade into obscurity.
Despite a history that goes as far back as the Aztec and Mayan cultures, chia seeds have only recently been recognized as a super-food, giving them a more respected future than the holiday advertisement for chia pets with that song that becomes an annoying earworm after weeks of repetition.
All chia pet jokes aside, chia seeds have been recognized for centuries by some cultures for their health benefits, as the tiny little seeds are not only packed with myriad nutrients, they are small sponges that soak up liquid, making chia water an ideal way to banish hunger and take in added nutritional benefits at the same time.
Chia seeds: A nutrient profile
According to Healthline, a one-ounce serving of chia seeds contains 22 grams of fiber, 4 grams of protein and 5 grams of omega 3 fatty acids.
In addition, chia seeds contain 18 percent of the recommended daily allowance of calcium, 30 percent of your day’s magnesium and manganese, and 27 percent of the phosphorus you need on a daily basis to repair damaged tissues and cells. They also contain enough zinc, niacin, potassium, thiamine and vitamin B2 to make them a healthy part of any diet, especially since that fiber-rich serving contains less than 150 calories. Starting to understand why they have rose to fame over the past few years?
These tiny seeds are an excellent way to keep hunger pangs at bay while providing you with nutrients at the same time. Chia seeds absorb enough water to expand to more than 10 times their weight, making them an ideal way to keep your body hydrated and feeling full.
I try to drink a glass of chia water in the morning before I head out as it keeps me feeling satisfied, so by the time I get to the office, those looming donuts and breakfast treats are not as tempting.
Daily chia Lemon water
Chia seed water is so easy to make, and it will stay in the refrigerator for up to five days.
- ¼ cup chia seeds
- 1 cup warm, purified water
- 1-2 slices squeezed lemon or lime juice (any citrus works)
Mix the three ingredients together and stir until the seeds become chewy and the mixture takes on a gel-like consistency.
Pop them in the refrigerator for 20 minutes, and your seeds will be set to go. I usually make the mixture when I wake up and then get ready for the day.
Just a note- the consistency of chia water is not like regular water. It can take some time getting used to as its gel like but once you’ve mastered it, you will be impressed with its amazing benefits I am sure.
The benefits of chia seed water
Chia seeds have so many benefits on their own – you can add them to almost anything to boost the nutritional benefits since they don’t have much of a flavor – but once they are mixed with water, those benefits rise considerably.
- Filling fiber: Chia seeds are high in mucilage, a soluble fiber that is activated when the seeds are wet. Mucilage is what gives chia seed water its thick, gelatinous consistency.
- Weight loss. Two tablespoons of chia seeds contain 10 grams of fiber, about 40 percent of the recommended daily intake. One 2015 study from the Annals of Internal Medicine found that fiber helped subjects who had trouble losing weight have more successful results. 4
- Better skin: Chia seeds are packed with antioxidants, making them a superb way to slow down aging from the inside out. Antioxidants are important because they fight free radicals, damaged cells that seek out collagen and elastin cells – the two proteins that make up the structural layer of our skin.
A 2014 study from researchers in Mexico that appeared in the Journal of Chromatology confirmed that chia seeds were an excellent source of high-performing antioxidants including gallic acid.
Since consuming plenty of water also helps skin stay youthful, chia seed water and the antioxidants it provides work in synergy to help skin stay hydrated and free from fine lines and wrinkles. Fountain of youth perhaps?
CHIA Breakfast PUDDING
There are so many different ways to use chia seeds, and this yummy, chia pudding keto friendly version is super versatile. It can be flavored in many different ways, so you’ll be sure to find a flavor you like. Plus, it’s pudding that is not only healthy and filling, it also tastes great. So you’re getting a treat that’s good for your body. A simple and healthy meal prep recipe that is perfect for breakfast on the go.
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1 cup coconut milk
- A few drops of stevia
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (or cocoa powder if you want chocolate pudding)
- A handful of blueberries- or other fruit
Mix the chia seeds, coconut milk, stevia and your choice of extracts. Feel free to experiment with almond, citrus or other extracts to change things up. Then place into in a mason jar and pop it in the refrigerator overnight.
When you’re ready to serve, top it with fresh berries (blueberries are great with vanilla, raspberries are fun with both chocolate or almond flavors) and serve.
Chia water and chia seeds in general are really something I feel can benefit you body and mind. Its an easy way to alter your diet and habits and takes just a few seconds to accomplish. Give them a try and see how you feel after a week. I am betting you will be a convert!