What's the secret to a healthy meal that fills you up without wreaking havoc on your calorie limit for the day? Chia seeds have got your back. The little seeds bulk up in liquids, which can help you feel fuller faster while also containing a healthy dose of protein, fiber, and other important nutrients. Get ready to fill up (and lose weight) with these 10 delicious chia seed recipes!
Chia Smoothies
The secret to a healthy smoothie: a dash of chia seeds. They add a frothy, creamy consistency as well as healthy nutrients, meaning you stay satisfied long after the first sip. Toss a tablespoon or two into your next healthy smoothie [1] to bulk up your meal (each tablespoon will run you about 70 calories).
Chocolate Banana Pudding
Can't kick your chocolate cravings? This chocolate chia banana pudding [3] is reminiscent of chocolate mousse and is full of good-for-you ingredients.
Cherry-Chocolate Granola Bites
You can feel good about having dessert when you make a batch of these cherry-chocolate granola cookie bites [5]. Dark chocolate chunks provide a healthy dose of antioxidants, and chia seeds add fiber and omega-3s to your indulgence.
Four-Cheese Lasagna
This hearty recipe for four-cheese and Swiss chard lasagna [7] warms up a chilly Winter night. Adding chia seeds to the sauce ups its fiber content and thickness.
Lemon Chia Dressing
Add a little oomph to your next salad. This lemon chia seed dressing [9] ensures that your lunch salad has the nutrients you need to stay satisfied all afternoon long.
Blueberry Breakfast Pudding
Give your oatmeal routine a rest, and opt for this grain-free blueberry breakfast pudding [11] instead.
Cookies 'n' Cream Chia Pudding
An indulgent-seeming breakfast that hits the spot, this cookies and cream chia pudding [12] wakes up your taste buds and fills you up.
Blueberry Chia Muffins
A 100-calorie morning treat that keeps you full? The secret is a dose of protein-rich chia seeds. Bonus: these addictive blueberry chia muffins [14] are gluten-free, too.
Chunky Monkey Energy Bars
Just like the ice cream but so much better for you. These chia banana chocolate energy bars [15] make a great omega-3-rich sweet snack.
Debloating Drink
For a fast fix after an indulgent night, down this quick debloating drink [17], which celebrity trainer Valerie Waters recommends her clients start the day with.