Chia seeds, best known for being used to create “Chia pets” (little dolls where the seed germinates), are an ancient food, once used by Aztec warriors as food for travel, and it is said that 1 tablespoon of seeds chia could sustain a warrior for 24 hours.
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We will show you how to make a gel with chia seeds.
Recently rediscovered, the Chia seed has remarkable nutritional value, and is one of the few plant-based foods that provide complete protein. In addition, they are a rich source of antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, alpha-linolenic acid, and of both soluble and insoluble fiber; It also provides minerals such as calcium, potassium, phosphorus, copper, iron, manganese, magnesium, and zinc, and the B vitamins, niacin, riboflavin, and thiamine.
One of the most unique properties of chia seed is its ability to absorb water and create a gel that can be mixed with food to increase its volume without decreasing or changing the taste or increasing the caloric value, making it a valuable addition to a weight loss diet. In fact, a study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition (Apr 2010) suggests that adding chia seeds to the diet could help control blood glucose levels, and help people feel fuller. for longer.
How to make chia seed gel?
To create chia gel, add a quarter cup of chia seeds to two and a quarter cups of water, beating well to avoid lumps. Wait a few minutes and beat again, then let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes until the gel has formed, and add to the food with a ratio of half chia gel to half food. (Beat again before use.)
Chia seed gel can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, and can be added to hot or cold cereals; condiments like ketchup, mustard, salad dressings, or barbecue sauce, and jams or jellies, dairy products like yogurt or sour cream, and other similar foods. The gel can also be used to replace up to a third of the oil in homemade breads, reducing calories and increasing the amount of fiber.
(Note: Always use filtered or bottled water to make chia gel because of its ability to intensify and distribute flavors, using tap water can make your gel taste “weird.”)
Other benefits of chia seed gel.
- Thanks to its high-water content, it helps to maintain adequate levels of hydration in the body, as well as maintain electrolyte balance.
- It helps in digestion and can reduce indigestion and heartburn caused by spicy or acidic foods.
- The high fiber content, and the ability to absorb and retain water, helps maintain regularity.
- Soluble fiber has been shown to help regulate and lower cholesterol levels.
- Soluble fiber is also known to slow down the conversion of carbohydrates to simple sugars in the digestive system, which helps regulate blood glucose levels and prevent spikes and drops. This is especially important in the management of type 2 diabetes, and may explain the results of the study mentioned above.
How to use chia seeds?
Using chia seeds in your diet to increase the nutritional value of your meals is very simple. Sprinkle the seeds in soups, salads, baked potatoes, ice cream, cereals, or whatever else you want. The seeds themselves have a slightly nutty flavor that does not overwhelm the flavors of the food they are added to.
For cholesterol and glucose control, chia seeds should be eaten just before a meal, or the seeds or gel added to food. If your purpose is simply to aid regularity or add the nutritional benefits of chia seeds to your diet, you can either eat the entire suggested amount in the morning, or add it to meals as suggested above. For all of these uses, you will want to add a tablespoon of dried seeds, or nine tablespoons of gel per day to your diet.
For weight loss and appetite control, you’ll use the gel as described in the previous section, using it to reduce the amount of fatty, sugary, and spicy foods you eat. The gel can also be used to replace up to a third of the amount of fat that the recipe calls for. In addition, eating some seeds (with plenty of water) or a tablespoon of gel about 15 minutes before each meal or snack will reduce hunger and help control the amount of food you eat, and a slightly larger amount can be used if you want. avoid pecking altogether.
How to do a chia seed face lift?
Not only do these little seeds have incredible benefits when consumed, but they can also deliver their beneficial properties when applied to the skin.
Try this chia seed face lift.
Mix a tablespoon or two of honey with 8 oz of warm water. Add a tablespoon of chia seeds and stir well for five minutes to allow the seeds to swell. After five minutes stir again and pour a small amount (about 1 tablespoon) into your hands and rub on your face. Leave on for five minutes before rinsing off with lukewarm water.