Take one look at the nutrition aisle of your local grocery store, and you’ll see that gut health has become a major focus for many people.
From probiotic drinks to high-fiber supplements, options abound when it comes to promoting optimal digestive system health.
Of all these options, though, there is perhaps no healthier and tastier way to promote gut healing than chia pudding.
Why? Chia seeds are rich in healthy fats, protein, fiber, and other essential vitamins and minerals that can help balance out the microbiota in our bellies—resulting in improved digestion, mental clarity, mood stabilization, and even weight loss!
Let’s dive into the benefits of chia pudding and how you can incorporate this yummy seed into your routine.
What is Chia Pudding?
Chia pudding is made from chia seeds, which come from a Mexican plant in the mint family. This tasty treat boasts plenty of benefits that contribute to overall wellness.
Loaded with omega-3 fatty acids that boost heart and joint health, improve memory, and provide crucial nutrients, chia pudding is a real winner.
Plus, it can help balance blood sugar and offers antioxidants and minerals like potassium, iron, and calcium.
Why Chia Pudding is Beneficial for Gut Health & Healing
Chia pudding has risen in popularity as a healthy and easy-to-make choice for promoting gut health and healing.
1. Rich in Protein
These tiny powerhouses are packed with protein, making them a fantastic plant-based source for vegetarians and vegans. Not only that, but they contain all nine essential amino acids that your body needs.
2. Loaded with Fiber
But that’s not all – chia seeds are also loaded with fiber, helping you protect against health issues like colon inflammation, high cholesterol, obesity, and even cancer. Say goodbye to constipation with a delicious bowl of chia pudding!
3. Boosts Antioxidants
Did we mention the antioxidants? These little seeds are bursting with them. Antioxidants are crucial in fighting off free radicals that can harm your cells and lead to various health problems. Keep your body in tip-top shape and ward off aging with these natural defenders.
4. Aids in Bone Health
Last but not least, let’s not forget about your bones. Chia seeds are an incredible source of calcium, magnesium, and manganese, all essential for strong and healthy bones. In fact, they even contain more calcium per gram than your typical dairy products. So go ahead and indulge in a delightful chia pudding made with seeds and milk!
5. Improved Gut Health
Finally, some studies suggest that chia seeds may improve intestinal health by increasing the thickness of intestinal muscle layers and enhancing the function of villi, which aid in food absorption. Plus, chia seeds may support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, such as Enterococcus spp and Lactobacillus spp, which play important roles in digestion and overall health, keeping chronic illness at bay.
How to make your own chia pudding at home
As a dedicated follower of nutritious recipes and a healthy gut, I want to share my passion for magical chia pudding. You can enjoy it any time of day, whether as a snack, breakfast, or even dessert.
Let’s get started with this simple two-ingredient recipe that serves one person.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup of milk (choose from low-fat, non-fat, soy, almond, coconut, rice, hemp, or other unsweetened non-dairy alternatives)
2 tablespoons of whole chia seeds (not ground)
Instructions:
In a small bowl, mix milk and your chia seeds. Thoroughly stir.
Refrigerate the mixture for optimal results for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Stir again before consuming.
Customize your chia pudding with a variety of toppings to try out more flavors!
Recipes for delicious chia puddings to get the most out of your gut health journey
If you’re passionate about gut health, you’ve got to try chia pudding! Chia seeds are super versatile and can easily be incorporated into your diet. Plus, chia pudding is a delicious and nourishing way to enjoy these tiny seeds while supporting digestive wellness.
Here are some delicious chia pudding recipes that will take your gut health game to the next level:
Quick and Easy Chia Pudding:
Looking for a fuss-free option? This recipe is a winner. In a mason jar, combine chia seeds with unsweetened soy milk, almond milk, or rice milk, along with a dash of pure vanilla extract. Refrigerate overnight, and in the morning, you can customize your pudding with dried fruit, unsweetened coconut flakes, cacao nibs, or fresh fruit. The possibilities are endless, and this recipe allows for creativity and personalization.
Pumpkin Spice Chia Pudding:
This seasonal treat combines chia seeds with coconut milk, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and a touch of brown sugar. It’s perfect for autumn and oh-so-flavorful. Simply mix the ingredients in a jar or container, refrigerate for at least four hours or overnight, and enjoy the creaminess of pumpkin spice chia pudding.
Low-Carb Plum Cheesecake Chia Pudding:
Watching your carb intake like me? Give this recipe a try. With only four ingredients, including chia seeds, almond milk, plum, and cream cheese, you can create a decadent and low-carb chia pudding that satisfies your sweet tooth without compromising your dietary goals. It’s a guilt-free dessert that anyone can enjoy.
Banana Bread Chia Pudding:
If you’re a fan of banana bread, then you’ll love this chia pudding variation. By combining chia seeds with ripe bananas, almond milk, cinnamon, and a touch of maple syrup, you can recreate the comforting taste of banana bread in a nutritious pudding. It’s the perfect way to have your favorite flavors and nourish your gut at the same time.
Nutrition Facts of Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are a nutritional powerhouse packed with beneficial nutrients that can lead to improved digestive health and overall well-being.
With just 3.5 ounces (100 grams) of chia seeds containing an impressive 486 calories, 16.5 grams of protein, and 34.4 grams of fiber, they’re a great addition to your diet.
And that’s not all: chia seeds are also rich in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, surpassing even flaxseeds as the best-known plant-based source.
My Take on Chia Pudding for Gut Health
Through my own journey of natural healing, I’ve discovered how important gut health is for overall wellness and healing. I’ve realized that sometimes we need to add things instead of always taking away foods from our diet with extreme elimination diets.
That’s when chia pudding captured my attention ….as I mentioned, these little powerhouses are a rich source of fiber, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, making them a fantastic addition to any gut-healthy diet.
And when you’re sick, you’ll try anything to help heal your body and bring down inflammation!
The Wrap: Chia Pudding for Gut Health
We’ve seen how chia pudding is full of healthy and healing benefits for our gut health. Not only can this tasty dessert help to nourish your gut, but you can get creative and have fun adding your own mix-ins and toppings.
When you choose nutrient-dense ingredients like honey, cacao chips, blackberries, or goji berries when customizing it, you’re giving your body the healing boost it needs to bounce back from illnesses or digestive struggles quickly.
Go ahead, give it a try…. Your gut will thank you.
XO,
jules
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