Chia seeds may be tiny, but they’re packed with nutrients that offer significant health benefits. We’re talking improved digestion, energy production, heart health and much more.
So, what makes these little seeds so impressive? Let’s start with their fiber content. Fiber plays a key role in digestion, blood sugar control, heart health and weight management. Just two tablespoons of chia seeds contain eight grams of fiber — almost a third of your daily requirement.
Chia seeds also are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats are essential for heart and brain health. Omega-3s help lower bad cholesterol, fight inflammation and support brain function. Additionally, chia seeds provide a boost of other important nutrients like calcium and iron.
Adding chia seeds to your diet can be as easy as sprinkling them into smoothies, cereals or salads. They’re also known to absorb more than 10 times their weight in water, creating a gel-like substance when soaked. With a bit of planning, soaked chia seeds can be a versatile ingredient in numerous recipes. They can add thickness to puddings, yogurts or parfaits and even serve as an egg substitute in vegan baking.
EASY CHIA SEED YOGURT PARFAIT
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- ½ cup milk (your choice of dairy, soy, almond, etc.)
- ¼ teaspoon honey or vanilla (optional)
- Nut butter of your choice (optional)
- ⅓ cup Greek yogurt
- Fruit or nuts for topping (optional)
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine the chia seeds and milk.
- Add honey or vanilla if desired.
- Stir well, cover and refrigerate for at least two hours or overnight.
- When ready, assemble your yogurt parfait as desired and enjoy!
This chia seed yogurt parfait is nutritious and easy to make. It can be a healthy addition to your well-balanced breakfast or make a delicious and refreshing snack.