Chia seeds are a natural and healthy source of energy

Posted on sustenance

Chia seeds are said to be among the most important superfoods worldwide. The miraculous seeds, which come from Mexico and Guatemala, have immense benefits for our diet because they contain nutrients such as: omega-3 fatty acids, minerals such as calcium and phosphorus, fiber and protein. These health benefits also benefit us in culinary terms: Thanks to its crunchy and nutty character, this healthy superfood also tastes very delicious and refines our dishes.

The leaves of Mexican chia (“Salvia hispanica”) can be purchased as tea infusion bags, for example — but the most widespread use of this plant is in the form of small, dark seeds, which can be processed whole, as a powder or as an oil.

The concentration of the superfood contained Calcium is five times as high as in milk and thus also covers the daily requirement of manganese (108%) and phosphorus (95%).

In the Mayan language, chia means “strength” and the Aztecs are said to have used chia as energy food to cover longer distances and win battles. The top nutritional benefits of this healthy superfood are the energy-yielding properties and the high protein and low calorie content. Seeds are such a natural and effective source of energy that even athletes use them to improve their performance and replace sports or energy drinks.

Chia seeds are rich in antioxidants and most of the carbohydrates are fiber, beneficial for digestion and general body functions. They improve blood circulation and prevent diabetes and heart problems.

The healthy chia seeds are a great asset to our diet, as they are easy to digest and can be used in a variety of ways, such as: as a topping for salads, various dishes and even in morning cereal. Try this delicious breakfast recipe from Stacey from GoodNessis.com:

Lucky granola with chia seeds and oats

INGREDIENTS

• 1/2 cup oats or other cereal flakes
• 1 1/2 cups nut milk
• a drop of lemon juice
• 4 tbsp. chia seeds
• 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds and goji berries soaked overnight
• 2 tbsp. ground flaxseeds

Serve your granola with a mix of the following ingredients:

• yogurt or nut milk of your choice
• 1 mango, 1 apple, 1 finely sliced banana, 1 cup fresh blueberries and raspberries (you can adjust the fruit selection to suit the season)
• A handful of granola (crispy cereal mix), dates or raisins
• Some honey or maple syrup
• Fresh mint leaves

Mix together the oats, milk, lemon juice, and chia seeds in a small bowl and mix thoroughly. Then cover and let rest for 30 minutes or refrigerate for 8-12 hours. (The mixture can be kept in the refrigerator for 4 days.)

Soak 2 tablespoons of sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and goji berries in filtered water overnight.

Drain seeds & berries the next morning and add to the oatmeal-chia mixture. Then sprinkle flaxseed over it and mix thoroughly.
Add yogurt or more nut milk (depends on the consistency) and start shredding the fruit.

Spread a layer of chia seed mixture on the bottom of one or more bowls and top with a layer of fruit. Then alternate a layer of chia seeds and oatmeal mixture and then another layer of fruit over it and so on.
Refine and enjoy with the cereal mix, oats, strawberry sauce, honey, fresh mint leaves or a topping of your choice. Bon appetit!

Posted on sustenance