Join the chia seed revolution!

To read the full article in the Epoch Times, click here

If you haven’t tried chia seeds yet, this simple pudding with endless variations may be what gets you started.

With a prep time of less than five minutes and overnight refridgeration, chia pudding makes my mornings smoother, and solves the issue of getting the kids nutritiously fed without making a complete mess in the kitchen. This recipe is a family affair at our home. My husband takes it to work in a mason jar, and it’s a hit with both my toddlers, who enjoy the pudding texture plus their favorite colorful toppings piled on.

Chia (pronounced CHEE-ahhh) is an edible seed that comes from a desert plant and was eaten by the Mayans and Aztecs. Chia seeds have been growing in popularity for years. ABC News referred to chia seeds as the “It” food of 2013, and you can’t venture down aisles of a health food store without seeing a proliferation of products that contain chia seeds.

Chia seeds are vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free. They are considered a superfood because of their numerous benefits, which include the following:

• A great source of omega 3 fatty acids
• High in antioxidants
• A complete protein source, containing all 8 essential amino acids
• Packed with iron and calcium
• Sugar-free

The seeds are packed with fiber, a whopping 10 grams in 2 tablespoons, one-third of the daily-recommended intake of fiber, making you feel full and satisfied while aiding digestion. Chia seeds enhance hydration and retention of electrolytes because they absorb many times their weight in water. A study published in the British Journal of Nutrition stated that chia seeds can lower triglycerides and cholesterol levels while increasing HDL, or “good” cholesterol.

Chia Seed Pudding Recipe

Makes 1 serving

• 3 tablespoons chia seeds
• 1/2- 3/4 cup unsweetened raw, organic almond, cashew, or coconut milk
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional: 1 tbsp maple syrup, dash of cinnamon

Use an air-tight container or mason jar to mix or shake the contents. Then simply leave in the refrigerator overnight (or for at least three to four hours). You can add any of the toppings below to the base when you make it at night, or toss them right on top in the morning.

Toppings:

Go for organic and local if possible

• Fresh fruit (my favorites are chopped strawberries, blueberries, apples, mango, and bananas)
• Citrus fruits like grapefruit, blood-red oranges, or even lemon zest, to add some zing
• Shredded coconut
• Pistachios (or any other nut of your choosing to increase the protein punch)
• Avocado (plus lemon zest, pistachio, and a pinch of Himalayan sea salt is my favorite combo for a more savory treat)
• Chopped mint (great with the strawberries or citrus)
• High-quality organic granola

If you crave extra sweetness, I encourage you to experiment with a teaspoon of the following: maple syrup, raw cacao for a chocolate kick, or raw honey. A dash of cinnamon may also satisfy your sweet tooth.

Share with us your favorite Chia Seed recipe! Enjoy!

With Gratitude and Love,
Christine and Stephanie

EMBODY Wellness. Embody Change. Embody Your Best Self.