Last weekend I formed a new obsession, CHIA pudding and I am determined to expand upon it!

Chia is named after the Mayan word for “strength.” Chia seeds help with weight loss by allowing you to feel full faster. They are high in Omega-3 fatty acids (more than salmon) and Omega-6, fiber and antioxidants. Chia contains more calcium than a glass of milk, not that you should be drinking milk in the first place!

When combined with a liquid, Chia seeds create a gelatin like substance due to the soluble fiber in the seeds. This also happens in the stomach when they are eaten, slowing the conversion of carbohydrates into sugar. In turn, this helps with athletic endurance and metabolic rates.

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup Organic raw Chia seeds
• 2 cups Gorgeous Brazil Nut Milk
• 1/2 can (and 1 dollop for garnish) organic coconut milk
• 1 tbsp Coconut Secret Raw Coconut Crystals
• 3 pitted dates
• 1 pomegranate, peeled

Place the nut milk, half a can of coconut milk, 1 tbsp coconut crystals and 3 pitted dates in blender. Turn on blender to a low speed, if using a Vitamix, turn to setting of 2. Pour the chia seeds into the blender, allowing for uniform mixing. Pour contents into a separate bowl and whisk every 5 minutes for 15 minutes. Let stand for one hour before transferring to glass jars and refrigerating. Transfer the rest of the coconut milk into a glass jar and refrigerate to solidify into a heavy cream like consistency.

To serve, scoop 3 tbsp chia pudding into separate serving glass. Garnish with pomegranate, a dollop of coconut cream and sprinkles of coconut crystals. Enjoy!