Today, let’s take a closer look at chia seeds… They’re all over social media as a must-have for any “fit girl”! These tiny seeds are rich in omega-3s and fibre, and also provide protein and vitamins. In this article, you’ll find out what they contain, how to eat them day to day and 4 easy recipes to add them to your meals.
What chia seeds contain
Chia seeds have found their place in many wellness routines. Rich in omega-3s, they’re a useful ingredient to include in a varied diet and a balanced lifestyle.
These little seeds contain very little sodium and provide fibre: an interesting profile for a balanced diet.
Another point worth noting: chia seeds also contain plant protein and vitamins.
And they’re easy to cook with, in sweet and savoury dishes alike. They also contain fibre.
In short, chia seeds have a lot going for them: they provide protein, fibre, vitamins and omega-3s, and work in many recipes. Often described as a “superfood”, chia is still just one food among many, to include in a varied and balanced diet.
Chia seeds and water retention
Water retention is often mentioned as a concern linked to cellulite. No food makes it disappear: chia seeds can simply have a place in a balanced diet, along with drinking enough water throughout the day.
Chia seeds are just one food among many: a varied diet, regular physical activity and suitable massages together make up a balanced self-care routine. If you have any concerns, ask your doctor for advice.
How to eat chia seeds?
These seeds can be enjoyed in many ways: sprinkled over dishes, added to drinks, or used as an egg substitute… That said, since chia is relatively high in fat, don’t overdo it.
You can also make a glass of chia water: add 1 tablespoon of seeds per glass, then leave it to rest for half an hour before drinking. The mixture becomes quite thick, with an almost gel-like texture.
Chia seeds day to day: how to add them to your meals
For an easy start, sprinkle them over a yoghurt, add them to a smoothie or turn them into a pudding. You can use these recipes as part of your varied diet; the idea is to keep the amounts moderate.
Alongside regular physical activity, they can easily become part of your everyday meals. If you have any doubts about your situation, talk to your doctor.
4 easy chia seed recipes
To help you add chia seeds to your diet, here are our 4 simple and delicious recipes.
Vanilla Chia Pudding
- 2 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp liquid vanilla extract
- 50ml plant-based milk (coconut milk, almond milk…)
- 100ml coconut milk
- Toppings of your choice (fresh fruit, chocolate…)
- Pour the plant-based milk, honey and vanilla into a saucepan and warm gently over low heat.
- Remove from the heat and stir in the coconut milk. Mix well.
- Place the chia seeds in a bowl, then pour the liquid over them.
- Leave to cool at room temperature, stirring regularly.
- Refrigerate for several hours, then add your toppings and enjoy!
Berry, Banana & Chia Seed Smoothie
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 200ml almond milk
- 1 banana
- 200g mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
- Slice the banana into rounds.
- Blend the banana and berries together (in a blender or food processor).
- Add the milk and chia seeds. Blend until smooth.
- Pour into a glass and enjoy straight away!
Chocolate & Strawberry Chia Pudding
- 40g chia seeds
- 10g unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp honey (or agave syrup)
- 125ml almond milk
- 80ml strawberry coulis
- Toppings of your choice (chocolate chips, fresh fruit, almonds…)
- Mix the milk and cocoa together.
- Place the chia seeds in a bowl, then pour the liquid over them.
- Add the strawberry coulis and honey. Mix well.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the mixture until silky.
- Divide the mixture between 2 jars.
- Refrigerate for several hours.
- Add your toppings and enjoy!
Honey & Chia Seed Salmon Fillet
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 2 salmon fillets
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (gas mark 6).
- Mix the chia seeds, sesame seeds, soy sauce and honey together in a bowl.
- Place the salmon fillets in a baking dish (skin side down), brush with olive oil, then coat with the seed mixture.
- Bake for around ten minutes.
- Serve immediately with your choice of sides (rice, vegetables…)
Beyond the plate
To take care of your skin and your figure, there’s a trio that often comes up: a varied diet, physical activity and pinch-and-roll massages with your Cellublue Cup.
To go further, the anti-cellulite programme can complement your routine: it combines capsules and the Drainer, to fit into your daily life. Find out more right here.
Frequently asked questions
How do you eat chia seeds?
You can add them to puddings and smoothies. They also work well in a coating for fish, as in our honey and chia seed salmon fillet recipe above.
How can chia seeds fit into a wellness routine?
You can fit chia seeds into a varied diet and your usual routine. Our recipes use plant-based milks, such as almond or coconut milk, but you can choose whichever you prefer.
Chia seeds and water retention: what should you know?
No food solves water retention: chia seeds are simply one food among many, to include in a varied diet alongside good hydration throughout the day. If you have any concerns, ask your doctor for advice.
Can you eat chia seeds every day?
Yes, as long as you stick to reasonable amounts. As chia is high in fat, it’s best not to eat too much of it. One to two tablespoons a day, spread across your recipes, is usually enough.
Do chia seeds need to be soaked?
Not necessarily: you can sprinkle them as they are over a dish or a yoghurt. In contact with a liquid, they swell and take on a gel-like texture, perfect for a pudding. In that case, allow at least half an hour of resting time, or a few hours in the fridge.
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Useful categories: Anti-Cellulite Diet, Slimming Nutrition.
