Integrative Health Blog

Chia is a nutritious seed that packs one powerhouse punch.

It is a great source of soluble fiber, minerals such as calcium, magnesium, manganese, and phosphorous, antioxidants, and omega-3s. Chia seeds can easily be sprinkled into oatmeal or baked into muffins, however the most versatile way to consume chia seeds is by making chia seed gel.

Chia Seed Gel Recipe

You will need:

• 3 T Chia seeds (preferably ground)
• 2 cups filtered water
• A jar with a lid

Chia seeds are able to absorb a lot of water, and in gel form, they are very hydrating. The easiest way to accomplish this is to take the whole seeds and either grind them up yourself in a coffee grinder, or purchase pre-ground chia seeds.(Whole chia seeds can also be used to make gel as well however, grinding the seeds allows for greater bioavailability of chia’s beneficial omega-3s).

In the jar, mix 3 tablespoons of grounds seeds with 2 cups of filtered water. Then you’ll want to seal the jar with a lid, and give it a few good shakes before storing it in the refrigerator. If the seeds appear clumpy next time you open the jar, add in a bit more water and stir, making sure that there is enough liquid to saturate all the seeds to a nice gel consistency. If the gel appears too watery, you can add more chia until the right consistency is reached. This gooey mixture should keep for about 2 weeks.

Chia Gel Uses

1. Chia gel can be added to any beverage, such as water, coconut water, juices, or my personal favorite, kombucha. The soluble fiber is Chia is also known as prebiotic fiber, which works together with the probiotics in kombucha tea to inoculate your body with good bacteria and also provide those beneficial flora with good food to help them thrive.
2. Chia gel can also be used as an egg substitute in baking recipes, with 1 egg equaling roughly 1 tablespoon of chia gel.
3. Chia pudding can be made by either letting the chia seeds (ground or whole) soak into the pudding base and become gelatinous or, the quicker method would be to make the pudding base, for example blending coconut milk and peaches, and mix in the pre-made chia gel, saving you the added soaking time.
4. Stir chia gel into oatmeal, porridge, or yogurt.
5. Use chia gel to thicken a gravy or sauce.

Chia seed gel is the most convenient, easily digested, and hydrating way to add Chia to your diet -and the possibilities are endless.