Top pick: Superfood

Chia seeds are an ancient superfood — they were a mainstay of Aztec and Mayan diets because of their nutritional value. The word “chia” means strength in the Mayan language, and the seeds were known as runner’s fuel. This concentrated protein source is also rich in fiber, helping keep the body full and energized for hours. Chia seeds are easy to add to any diet and can be used to make puddings, added to baked goods, or sprinkled on cereal or savory dishes. When added to a liquid, chia seeds expand into a gel, which makes them a great plant-based option for thickening sauces or replacing eggs.

13-health-benefits-of-chia-seeds:

1. Stimulates Weight Loss

2. Promotes Healthy Digestion

3. Manage Blood Sugar Levels

4. Maintain Cardiovascular Health

5. Increases Your Energy Levels

6. Enhance Workouts

7. Rich in Protein

8. Boost Mood

9. An Excellent Source of Antioxidants

10. Build Strong Bones

11. Promote Oral Health

12. Naturally Raw and Organic

Suggested recipes:

• Chia Pudding

• Chia Jam

is so much easier to make than the jam my Mom used to make and is just as good if not better plus it’s ten times healthier!

Chia seed jam 3 ways

• Substituting poppy seeds with chia seeds…

I discovered two of the most amazing recipes that called for poppy seeds but all I had was chia seeds so what the heck…turned out amazing.

Lemon-poppy-seed-granola-gluten-free-vegan

Chickpea-flour-lemon-poppy-seed-bread-gluten-free

Both of these recipes come from Moon, Spoon and Yum Food blog which I will be featuring as a top pick in the near future. In the meantime check it out!

MOON and spoon and yum: Vegetarian Eats + Gluten-Free …moonandspoonandyum.com

• Chia Fresca is so refreshing and simple to make

• Chia & Açai Fresca on Green Kitchen Stories Food blog .