WHY YOU MUST ADD CHIA SEEDS TO YOUR
SMOOTHIE RECIPES
Introduction: I
have an addiction to smoothies. I’ve collected tons of recipes and added them to my website SmoothieFans.com I love to add easy healthy ingredients to my smoothies to pack in more nutrients. One of my favorites is Chia seeds. They are super nutritious, you don’t need to add much, and they don’t alter the flavor of smoothies at all. Find out why you should be putting Chia seeds in your smoothies.
Chia Seed Origins: Chia
seeds are edible seeds that come from the Salvia Hispanics plant. This plant is native to southern Mexico and Guatemala and belongs to the mint family. Chia was a staple crop for the Aztecs and Mayans and means “Strength” in Mayan. The Chia seed has a mild nutty flavor and doesn’t need to be ground to reap its nutritional benefits. For this reason it makes an excellent healthy smoothie ingredient addition to just about any recipe.
Chia Seed Nutritional Value: One
ounce of Chia seeds packs a lot of nutrients. The biggest beneficial nutrients are its high amount of fiber, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids. One Ounce (2 Tablespoons) Chia Seed: 139 Calories 4g Protein 9g Fat 12g Carbohydrates 11g Fiber = 42% DV Calcium 18% DV Iron 12% DV Magnesium 23% DV Manganese 30% DV
Chia Seeds Are A High Source Of Fiber: Chia
seeds are an incredible source of fiber. We all know fiber is good for us and helps with making us feel fuller longer. The high fiber content of Chia seeds help you feel fuller longer because they absorb a lot of water, which causes the Chia seed to expand into a gel slowing down the digestive tract. High fiber foods are well known for reducing inflammation, lowering cholesterol, and bowel function.
Chia Seeds Have Tons Of Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Chia
seeds are very high in polyunsaturated fats. The lipid profile for Chia seeds is composed of 60% omega-3’s especially alpha-linolenic acid, ALA. They also contain a lot of omega-6 fatty acids at 20% per serving in the form of linolenic acid. Chia seeds actually have more Omega-3 than salmon with no risk of mercury.
Chia Seeds Have Tons Of Omega-3 Fatty Acids cont.: Omega-3’s
are important because they are essential fatty acids that build new cells and regulate body processes. Our bodies don’t make them on their own so we need to consume them from outside sources. Omega-3 can help reduce inflammation, reduce cholesterol, improve cognitive performance, support heart health, and improve skin, hair, and nails. Omega-3’s are also helpful for those that are pregnant because they improve brain health of developing babies.
Other Fun Chia Seed Facts: Chia
seeds do not contain any gluten. Chia seeds are also packed with antioxidants to fight free radical molecules reducing aging and cancer risks. Chia seeds have a long shelf life of almost two years if refrigerated.
How Do I Prepare Chia Seeds For A Smoothie: The
best way to prepare Chia seeds to add to smoothies is to soak them in water 10-15 minutes before you make your smoothie. You can also make a batch of Chia gel ahead of time and store in the refrigerator. I’ve had the best luck with a ratio of 1 tablespoon of Chia seeds to 1/3 to 1/2 cup water. If you want to be really healthy, soak the seeds in coconut water.
My Suggested Chia Seed Brands: Nutiva
Chia Seeds Healthworks Chia Seeds Navitas Chia Seeds For links to purchase these chia seeds visit:
smoothiefans.com/must-add-chia-seeds-smoothie-recipe/
I hope you enjoyed this article! Visit
SmoothieFans.com for tons of smoothie recipes, healthy smoothie ingredient advice, and tips