Spiced Coconut Milk Chia Pudding

Chia seeds are especially good in the spring!

According to Ayurveda, spring is the season of renewal and rejuvenation, but it can also be a time of imbalance and instability. Chia seeds, with their grounding and stabilizing qualities, can help balance the body and mind during this season. They can also help combat seasonal allergies, which are common in the spring, due to their anti-inflammatory properties.

Chia seeds have been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic medicine as a dietary supplement and as a remedy for various health conditions. Here are some of the benefits of chia seeds from an Ayurvedic perspective:

1. Rich in Nutrients: Chia seeds are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. They are especially high in calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, which are important for maintaining healthy bones and teeth.

2. Promotes Digestion: Chia seeds are high in fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and regular bowel movements. They also contain mucilage, a gel-like substance that helps soothe and protect the digestive tract.

3. Supports Heart Health: Chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help lower inflammation and reduce the risk of heart disease. They also contain antioxidants that protect against oxidative stress, which is a major contributor to heart disease.

4. Regulates Blood Sugar: Chia seeds can help regulate blood sugar levels due to their high fiber content, which slows down the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream. This can be especially beneficial for people with diabetes.

5. Boosts Energy: Chia seeds are a good source of protein and healthy fats, which provide sustained energy throughout the day. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals that support overall health and vitality.

Overall, chia seeds are considered a superfood in Ayurveda due to their numerous health benefits. They can be added to smoothies, salads, oatmeal, and other dishes to boost their nutritional value. However, as with any food or supplement, it's important to consume chia seeds in moderation and consult with a healthcare provider before making any dietary changes. Here's my favorite way to have them...

Spiced Coconut Milk Chia Pudding

Ingredients:

4 tbsp chia seeds

1 cup coconut milk (or nut milk of your choice)

1 tsp cinnamon

⅛ tsp cardamom

⅛ tsp cloves

Directions:

1. Add chia seeds to a container with a lid. Stir in the spices and add hemp milk (or nut milk of your choice).

2. Mix well

3. Put in the refrigerator for a minimum of one hour or overnight.

4. Eat within 24 hours.

There are so many options for topping your chia pudding- try a nut butter with cocoa nibs or goji berries. Also, I prefer using the spices in chia pudding because it's a bit more digestible but using just vanilla and a bit of maple syrup is very common as well.

What's your favorite topping?