This antioxidant, heart healthy and nutrient dense treat will be sure to start your day off right or be a perfect midday pick me up. This chia seed pudding is a delicious and nutritious treat that can be enjoyed for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. But beyond its taste, it also boasts a number of impressive health benefits, thanks to the power-packed chia seeds themselves.

What are chia seeds?

Chia seeds are tiny, oval-shaped seeds from the Salvia hispanica plant, a member of the mint family. Chia seeds are tiny nutritional powerhouses, containing a wealth of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and healthy fats. Just one serving of chia seeds provides a good amount of omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, phosphorus, iron, and antioxidants.

Thanks to their complex carbohydrates and protein content, chia seeds are a slow-burning source of energy. This means that eating chia seed pudding can help you feel fuller for longer and prevent energy crashes throughout the day.

The high fiber content in chia seeds helps to promote gut health by feeding the good gut bacteria and aiding in digestion.

In short, chia seeds have numerous health benefits:

Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, crucial for heart health and brain function
Excellent source of dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health
A good source of protein, supporting energy levels and muscle building
Loaded with essential minerals like calcium, iron, and magnesium
Packed with antioxidants to protect cells from damage

Chia seed pudding ingredients

Banana: The banana needs to be bright yellow and ripe, so that it’s easily mashable

Non-diary milk: I prefer to use homemade coconut milk when I can. But if you don’t have any coconuts on hand, you can use any unsweetened non-dairy milk as a substitute such as oat milk from Oatly.

Chia seeds: Any brand of chia seeds from the grocery store will work.

Cacao powder: I use cacao powder from Navitas Organics. They have different varieties for cacao powder, some that include acai and other super food ingredients. Use any powder variety for this recipe.

Performance mushroom powder: I love Laird Hamilton’s Performance Mushroom Energy + Cognition powder. I love this stuff. I use it in my coffee, tea, baking, smoothies, yogurts and cereals.

Peanut Butter: I use whatever the cheapest smooth and organic peanut butter I can buy at the grocery store. Different stores have different brands, but I don’t feel as this is a break the bank product. Use any peanut butter you want. Consider making the peanut butter yourself or substitute this or a sunflower seed butter, cashew or almond butter.

Maple Syrup: Any brand of maple syrup will do. You only need 1 tsp for a bit of flavoring. If you prefer the chia seed pudding to be less sweet, you can omit the maple syrup all together.

Cinnamon: You just need a pinch of cinnamon powder from your spice rack.

Performance Mushrooms

Performance mushroom powders are a trendy supplement containing a blend of various mushrooms believed to enhance athletic performance, energy levels, and overall well-being. However, it’s important to understand the on-going research surrounding these benefits.

Here’s a breakdown of published research so far:

Potential Benefits (limited research):

Energy and Stamina: Some mushrooms, like Cordyceps, have been linked to improved exercise performance and reduced fatigue in studies.
Immune System Support: Many performance mushroom blends contain varieties rich in beta-glucans, which may stimulate the immune system.
Stress Management: Adaptogenic mushrooms like Reishi are believed to help the body adapt to stress. Early research shows some potential, but more robust studies are needed for definitive conclusions.

Important Considerations:

Limited Evidence: Many studies on performance mushrooms are preliminary or conducted in controlled settings. More real-world research is needed to confirm supposed benefits.
Individual Needs: There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Athletes may have different needs compared to the general population.
Quality Matters: Choose reputable brands with organic, sustainably sourced mushrooms and clear information about processing and testing methods.

Remember:

Consult a Doctor: Before trying performance mushroom powder, talk to your doctor, especially if you have underlying health conditions or take medications.
Not a Magic Bullet: Performance mushrooms are best viewed as a potential supplement, not a replacement for a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep.

While some studies suggest potential benefits, the science on performance mushroom powders is still evolving. If you’re considering trying them, prioritize a doctor’s consultation, manage expectations, and choose high-quality products.

Optional toppings to make it fit you!

Get a little crazy with your chia seed pudding toppings. Here’s some topping ideas you can add:

Fresh fruit
Dried fruit
Nut & seed butters
Chocolate chips or shavings
Chopped nuts & seeds
Granola
Honey
Coconut flakes