Superfoods.
A term used to frequently to describe so many of the ingredients to use to cook our meals. Whether it’s a specific fruit, a leafy powder or a seed, everyone seems to have their own definition of what a superfood really is based on the many benefits it brings to the body. To us, a superfood means just one thing: an ingredient that goes beyond its nutritional benefits to support overall health, and one of the first superfoods in our Ramadan series we’d like to talk about is chia seeds.
Everyone’s heard about chia seeds and their many health benefits. Whether you like yours crunchy in a salad or soft in a breakfast bowl, these versatile little sprinkles are super easy to add to all your favourite recipes. In fact, try adding a spoonful of chia seeds to your water bottle for a little extra nutrition—you’ll LOVE how it tastes, we promise!
Chia seeds look incredibly small but they’re mighty packed with nutrients and benefits, completely justifying their meaning (chia means “strength” in the Mayan language). They’re packed with vital minerals, protein, omega-3 and soluble fibre that are essential for promoting heart health, supporting strong bones and improving blood sugar levels too. The best part? They’re easy to incorporate into your everyday meals. Read on to learn more about the benefits of these nutrient-rich seeds along with a quick recipe to fuel your healthy lifestyle.
Hello, Soluble Fibre!
Did you know chia seeds are an excellent source of soluble fibre? An intake of soluble fibre improves digestive health, lowers bad cholesterol and lowers blood sugar spikes, promoting a feeling of fullness.
Weight Loss Support
Since chia seeds are dense in both fibre and protein, it regulates appetite and food intake, ultimately combating obesity and managing weight. Try adding a spoonful of chia seeds to your water bottle for a little extra nutrition—you’ll LOVE how it tastes, we promise!
Stronger Bones? Yes, Please!
Loaded in calcium, magnesium and phosphorous, these little sprinkles have all the nutrients needed to maintain and improve bone health. Research indicates that consumption of chia seeds also improve bone mineral density. Consider us sold!
Increase Your Antioxidants
The antioxidants in chia seeds help neutralise the body’s free radicals that can cause illness and ageing. Some research suggests that chia seeds contain anti-cancer properties and also prevent the body’s fatty acids from going foul. Who can say no to looking and feeling younger and healthy?
Easy to Incorporate
Chia seeds have no taste of their own, so they fit seamlessly into meal prep. Whether you add it to your smoothies, use them as a vegan egg replacer or simply sprinkle them over salads for a crunchy texture, they’re easy to palate and are a healthy source of vital nutrients. If you’re looking for a way to add these sprinkles to your meal prep, why not make this zesty Lemon Chia Seed Dressing to drizzle over salads?
Lemon Chia Seed Dressing
Ingredients
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons golden or white balsamic vinegar
2 teaspoons honey or agave nectar use agave for vegan
2 teaspoons chia seeds
Pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Method
Combine olive oil, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, honey or agave, and chia seeds in a small bowl or jar. Whisk until well combined. Season with salt and black pepper and drizzle over your favourite salad.
Written by Lauren Jacobsen, Nutrition Director
