Soaked Chia Seeds - Lifestyle Foods (2024)

Soaked Chia Seeds - Lifestyle Foods (1)

Soaked Chia Seeds

Soaked chia seeds are a versatile base on which to build an exciting range of breakfast bowls.

How to make them:

Soak a ¼ cup of chia seeds in 1 cup of almond milk or water for 20-30 minutes, or until they develop a chewy, pudding-like texture.

These seeds swell because they contain a type of soluble fibre called mucilage, which absorbs liquid.

Soaking is a great way to unlock additional nutritional value from these nutrient-dense ingredients. Soaking activates the mucilage, which reduces the seeds’ phytic acid content and makes other nutrients more bioavailable. That process makes it easier for your body to digest and absorb beneficial proteins, fats and carbohydrates.

You can also keep soaked chia seeds in the fridge for up to five days, which makes them a great ingredient to make in batches for multiple convenient breakfast options during the week, or as a porridge mixed with your favourite plant protein flavour.

Bonus tip: Soaked chia seeds are an ideal substitute for eggs in various vegan recipes.

Great ingredients to pair with soak chia seeds:

  • Plant-based protein powder
  • Sweet fruit like mango, pineapple, banana, paw paw or pears
  • Berries
  • Nuts or nut granola
  • Coconut shavings or dessicated coconut

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Soaked Chia Seeds - Lifestyle Foods (2024)

FAQs

Soaked Chia Seeds - Lifestyle Foods? ›

How to make them: Soak a ¼ cup of chia seeds in 1 cup of almond milk or water for 20-30 minutes, or until they develop a chewy, pudding-like texture.

What happens if we eat soaked chia seeds daily? ›

Chia seeds absorb water and contain a lot of fiber. Eating them soaked in water may help promote hydration, healthy digestion, and lower hunger. This may help support your weight loss goals. Chia seeds are tiny, black and white seeds that are known for being rich in nutrients like protein and fiber.

What can I do with soaked chia seeds? ›

Other Ways to Use Chia Seeds

If you enjoy overnight oats, add one tablespoon to your favorite recipe; the high protein content of the seeds will make the dish more filling. You can also add the tiny seeds to a "homemade compote on [a] charcuterie board, applesauce snacks, or a homemade salad dressing," says Brown.

Do chia seeds lose nutritional value when soaked? ›

It is important to soak your chia seeds and activate the mucilage because it creates positive changes in the nutritional and physical properties of the chia seeds that make them even more beneficial for your health.

What not to mix with chia seeds? ›

Omega-3 fatty acids: Chia seeds contain a high amount of omega-3 fatty acids. It is known that high levels of omega-3 fatty acids may increase the risk of bleeding. Therefore, it is advised to avoid taking chia seeds with foods or supplements rich in omega-3 fatty acids.

Is 2 tablespoons of chia seeds a day too much? ›

These tiny seeds can provide fiber that helps lower cholesterol, boost your heart health and reduce your risk of developing chronic disease. That said, because chia seeds are packed with fiber and are calorie dense, stick with no more than 2 tablespoons per day.

Can chia seeds reduce belly fat? ›

Both Chia seeds and Ginger have been shown in some studies to help suppress appetite. Feeling fuller for longer may lead to reduced calorie intake, which can contribute to weight loss, including fat loss in the belly area.

Can soaked chia seeds go bad? ›

You can refrigerate soaked chia seeds for up to five days, so make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy them throughout the week. Our favorite ways to use them include stirring a couple of spoonfuls into a smoothie or oatmeal—or layering them with fresh fruit and maple syrup for a parfait.

Can I soak chia seeds in yogurt? ›

For raw chia seeds, you can soak chia seeds with warm water first and then use them or sprinkle a spoonful of chia seeds directly into yogurt, wait 15-20 minutes for the chia seeds to bloom and then use. Can be used with many other fruits such as watermelon, strawberry, mango, ... to make the dish more attractive.

How to get rid of phytic acid in chia seeds? ›

Phytic acid has the ability to stop uptake of essential minerals such as zinc, iron and calcium. This is easily solved and not a problem for most people. Soaking chia in water until soft stops phytic acid from binding to minerals.

What are the side effects of chia seeds soaked in water? ›

Chia seeds are loaded with fibres and when it is consumed in lots of quantities the body may find it difficult to digest it properly. One should stick to an ideal quantity of chia seeds in a day and not consume more. Consuming more of these tiny seeds can cause diarrhea, bloating and stomach cramps.

What happens when we drink chia seeds water with an empty stomach? ›

It's a good habit to start the day by consuming chia seed water on an empty stomach. Chia seeds are rich in fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids, among other important elements. They absorb water when soaked, turning the liquid into a gel-like substance that promotes digestion and keeps you feeling full.

Should I soak chia seeds before adding to oatmeal? ›

To get the most benefit out of your chia seeds, soak them overnight in water before making your oatmeal with chia seeds. To do this, simply put your chia seeds in a small ramekin with 1/2 cup (125ml) of water, and stir. Leave to sit for a minute, then stir again and place in the fridge overnight.

What is the downside of eating chia seeds? ›

One of the most common side effects of consuming chia seeds in excessive amounts is digestive issues like bloating, gas, and constipation. This is because the high fibre content in chia seeds can lead to stomach discomfort and digestive problems.

What are the best foods to eat with chia seeds? ›

To help get your daily quota of chia, whirl them into your daily smoothie or sprinkle them on your morning bowl of oatmeal (or batch of overnight oats). Chia seeds can also be used to thicken salad dressings and as a crust for fish or tofu.

What does Mayo Clinic say about chia seeds? ›

Chia is rich in lignans and omega-3 fatty acids for cardiovascular health. These seeds also contain magnesium, an important mineral for brain, digestive tract and heart health. Add chia to cereal, yogurt, salads and smoothies, or use it make puddings for a nutrient-dense snack.

Will I lose weight if I eat chia seeds everyday? ›

Though adding chia seeds to your diet is unlikely to cause weight loss on its own, it may be a useful addition to a balanced, nutritious diet if you're trying to lose weight. Chia seeds are high in protein and fiber, both of which have been shown to aid weight loss.

Is it better to eat chia seeds dry or soaked? ›

Since chia seeds can hold up to 12 times their weight in water, soaking your chia seeds in water is a great way to prevent dehydration. You can combine chia seeds with water to make a natural energy drink. You can also mix chia seeds with water to create a vegan-friendly egg substitute for your baked goods and recipes.

What happens if you drink chia seeds water everyday morning? ›

Drinking a glass of soaked chia seeds first thing in the morning will help you feel fuller for longer, which will reduce your appetite and aid in weight loss.

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