Chia Seeds And Why I Love Them As A Type 1 Diabetic (Type 1.5 Diabetes)

I love chia seeds, they are highly nutritious and are an interesting food to me. I have been eating them for several years now and they are a regular part of my Red Sugar Life.

(yum, all that chia goodness)

Chia Seeds May Be Tiny, But They Are BIG On Nutrients

I love having foods in my Red Sugar Life that are natural, healthy, and highly nutritious without having a detrimental effect on my blood sugar levels. Chia seeds fit in with me perfectly. Here are some nutritional benefits they offer:

• They contain antioxidants, and antioxidants help to fight inflammation in the body.
• They are a good source of omega 3 fatty acids, and they are a source of omega 6 fatty acids as well
• They are a plant source of protein, containing 2 grams of protein per tablespoon.
• They are gluten-free, which is great for me as I have a sensitivity to gluten.
• They are an amazing source of dietary fiber, with 4 grams of fiber in 1 tablespoon.
• And with all of that nutrition they are still a relatively low-calorie food, only 60 calories per tablespoon.

 

(such tiny seeds!)

These nutritional benefits also help regulate my blood sugar levels which is something very important to me as a type 1 diabetic (type 1.5 diabetes) with insulin resistance. In addition to the nutritional benefit, I notice I have more energy throughout the day when I eat chia seeds. I love this benefit, as with my condition(s) I often experience fatigue and that can make it harder for me to get through my day.

One Of My Favorite Things About Chia Seeds? Their Mucilage

The word ‘mucilage’ may sound odd but that is what chia seeds produce when moistened. It’s fascinating to me actually. I was intrigued at seeing how chia seeds reacted when they absorbed water. It makes it more fun to eat. When wet, chia seeds release a highly nutritious and hydrating mucilage that is gel-like. It’s not icky or excessively ‘gel-ly’ either. I noticed sometimes the chia seeds will stick together or clump, but mostly the seeds release their mucilage and form their own little gel bubble.

I Love How Versatile Chia Seeds Are

And one of my favorite ways to eat chia seeds is in hot tea, which I talk about here. Another way I love to have my chia seeds is in spring water. It’s very simple and nutritious.

(there are lots of options with these delicious seeds)

Some Other Ways To Use Chia Seeds In Food:

• They can be used in drinks, such as teas, shakes, smoothies, and more, some of my favorite ways
• They can be used as a replacement for eggs in some baking recipes
• They make a yummy topping for yogurts and creamy foods

I have found that chia seeds have a mild, barely there taste and can blend in the flavor of what you are using them in. Their taste isn’t overpowering or off-putting to me at all. I like to use them for their texture and nutritional value and they do not take away from my enjoyment of whatever I like to use them in.

Chia Seeds – I Approve

There are many ways to use chia seeds and I enjoy finding different ways to incorporate them into my Red Sugar Life!

~Luna