You guys, we need to talk about fiber. Did you know that most people are getting just a quarter of the fiber they need every day?? Most people have around 10 grams per day. I like to go for 10 grams per meal! Fiber is is essential for nourishing our gut microbiome since the healthy bacteria that live in our intestines thrive off a diet rich in fiber. Fiber helps keep our bowels regular and helps us clear away toxins and old, used hormones from our body. Fiber is found naturally in plants, nuts, seeds, legumes, and whole grains, but some processed foods contain added fiber. The problem is, it's tough to actually be eating 30-40 grams per day.
One of my favorite ways to easily get in a nice serving of fiber is with chia seeds. These super seeds pack a whopping 9 grams of fiber per 2 tablespoons (for reference, you'd have to eat about 5 cups of broccoli to get the same amount of fiber). If you've never had them before, they come in black or white (no real difference in taste and there's only minor nutritional differences between them) and they absorb a ton of liquid and have a gel-like texture when they've been in liquid for a long time.
I love adding chia seeds to smoothies, but sometimes this chia seed pudding is the perfect afternoon snack on a hot day. The rich cocoa flavor is perfect when topped with bananas or berries, or some chopped nuts for an added crunch.
Ingredients:
3/4 cup almond milk
2 Tbsp chocolate protein powder
1 Tbsp cocoa powder
2 Tbsp chia seeds
1 tsp sweetener of your choice, optional*
optional toppings: banana slices, berries, shredded coconut, chopped nuts, cacao nibs
*Depending on your body's sugar tolerance and your goals, you can opt for a natural sweetener like honey or pure maple syrup (which contains more sugar) or a low calorie sweetener like monkfruit or allulose (won't affect your blood sugar as much.)
Instructions:
In a small bowl add almond milk, protein powder, and cocoa powder. Mix until combined.
Stir in chia seeds.
Place in the fridge and let set for at least 3 hours
Add toppings and enjoy!