CHIA SEEDS AND 5 HYDRATING DRINK RECIPES FOR SUMMER

If you're looking for a healthy drink to keep you hydrated, check out these top 5 chia seed drink recipes for summer.

1. Benefits of Chia Seed Drinks

Chia seeds are among the top superfoods, known for their healing properties and health benefits.

• Nutrient-Rich
  Chia seeds are packed with nutrients such as fiber, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and a variety of vitamins and minerals, enriching any drink with extra nutrition.

• Provides Sustained Energy
  The combination of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats in chia seeds offers sustained energy throughout the day.

• Good for Digestive Health
  The soluble fiber in chia seeds promotes healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.

• Aids in Weight Management
  Chia seeds can help with weight management by promoting satiety and reducing cravings, making it easier to maintain a healthy diet.

• Suitable for Diabetics
  According to Dr. Nguyen Thi Thanh Hai, chia seeds contain no gluten, are easy to digest, and can improve glucose and insulin tolerance, which is beneficial for diabetics.

• Supports Healthy Hydration
  Chia seeds help maintain hydration through their high water-absorbing capacity.

2. How Do Chia Seeds Help with Hydration?

Chia seeds help with hydration due to their ability to absorb and retain water. Adding chia seed drink recipes to your diet is a great way to stay hydrated in the summer.

Chia seeds can absorb water up to 10-12 times their size. When consumed, they form a gel-like substance in the stomach, slowing down water absorption and keeping you hydrated longer. Electrolytes in chia seeds further help maintain fluid balance in the body, aiding in hydration.

3. Try These Best Chia Seed Drink Recipes for Summer

Chia seeds have become popular in various combinations, such as smoothies, puddings, and baked goods, but the simplest way is to soak them in water. Here are some of the best chia seed drink recipes to keep you hydrated this summer:

3.1 Chia Fresca

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp chia seeds
• 1 cup water
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup

Instructions:

• Mix 1 tbsp chia seeds with 1 cup of water, a bit of lemon juice, and honey or maple syrup.
• Let it sit for about 10 minutes for the seeds to expand, then enjoy.

3.2 Fruit Chia Water

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp chia seeds
• 500ml filtered water
• 1 cup sliced strawberries
• 1 sliced orange
• 1 sliced cucumber

Instructions:

• Soak 1 tbsp chia seeds in 1 cup of water to let them expand, then add sliced fruits like strawberries, orange, or cucumber along with the remaining 300ml water.
• Chill in the fridge for a few hours or overnight for a refreshing and hydrating drink.

3.3 Coconut Chia Water

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp chia seeds
• 1 cup coconut water

Instructions:

• Mix 1 tbsp chia seeds with 1 cup coconut water.
• Let sit for 10 minutes until the seeds absorb the liquid, then stir and enjoy.

3.4 Chilled Green Tea with Chia

Ingredients:

• 1 cup green tea
• 1 tbsp chia seeds
• 1 tsp honey

Instructions:

• Brew a cup of green tea and let it cool.
• Add 1 tbsp soaked chia seeds, sweeten with honey or stevia to taste, and add ice for a refreshing and hydrating drink.

3.5 Chia Smoothie

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp chia seeds
• 1 cup yogurt
• 1 cup fruit of choice
• 1 cup milk

Instructions:

• Blend 1 tbsp chia seeds with your favorite fruits, yogurt, and a bit of milk for a nutritious and hydrating summer smoothie.

Thien Chau