Chia fresca. What is chia water, and why drink it? We hear a lot about chia seeds and how we should incorporate them in our daily routine for health, but why?
Chia seeds for health
Chia seeds are nutrient dense. One serving of chia seeds is often listed as 2 tablespoons, but that's a lot! Our chia fresca recipe has 1 tbsp of chia seeds. In that amount, you still get half of your daily fibre intake, about 2-3g of protein, vitamins, minerals, Omega-3s and antioxidants.
- They are a great source of plant-based protein and contain all 8 essential amino acids.
- High in fibre, one serving contains your complete RDA of fibre, so it is excellent for your digestive health.
- Low carbohydrate, so it won’t raise blood sugar levels.
- Rich in Omega-3’s, in higher quantities than flax seeds and walnuts!
- Rich in minerals such as calcium, magnesium, iron (2 tbsp of chia seeds contain more iron than a cup of spinach), zinc and copper, and about as many antioxidants as 1 serving of blueberries
- Able to absorb 10x their weight in water, making them excellent for hydration.
- Appetite suppressant. Because they absorb liquid and become denser, chia seeds help to reduce appetite by filling you up more.
- Improves energy levels. Because of the hydration and protein, it is said that chia can improve energy levels.
Texture
This is a common question! How does it feel to drink a cup with these little gelly seeds floating around? To be honest, if you are a person who doesn’t like certain textures, this may not be the drink for you. However, chia seeds surround themselves with gel when soaked in liquid. Most people report that the texture doesn’t bother them, or even that they enjoy it. The gel coating on the seeds makes it easy to swallow, and gives the drink a thicker consistency. Not quite like a smoothie, but similar density.
Notes:
Like with other seeds and grains, chia seeds may limit the absorption of other nutrients. This is what makes it so great for a morning hydrating water, consumed alone.
Chia seeds are best consumed after soaking. Dry chia seeds will absorb liquid in your stomach, having a dehydrating effect. If you consume dry chia seeds, just ensure to drink plenty of water afterwards. There is no harm in consuming dry chia seeds as long as you drink about 1 glass of water for every 1 tbsp of dry chia seeds.
Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 10-12oz filtered water
- Juice from 1 lime or ½ lemon
- Sweetener if desired
- Optional: Add fresh cucumber slices/juice, cayenne pepper, or use coconut water instead of filtered water.
Directions
Mix all ingredients together. Allow to sit for 20 minutes, stir once or twice during the 20 minutes.
Enjoy right away, or leave in the fridge for up to 5 days!
Chia for your business
Chia seeds can be added to many dishes, used to thicken sauces or salad dressing, make unique puddings, or even cocktails! Email us to discuss how chia seeds can fit in with your current offerings.
