ProactivChia the Triple Threat Superfood

When it comes to changing the way I eat, the less I notice the better. I love smoothies, salads and yogurt so if I can find something that I can easily add to those items I am happy. I have never been afraid to try new foods either. So when I was sent a few packages of PRANA ProACTIVChia I could not wait. I have been seeing so many recipes that include Chia over the last few years, I knew the possibilities were endless.

What is Chia?

A seed considered to be a SUPERFOOD

Part of the Mint family

Founded by the Aztecs – “chia” is Mayan word for “strength”

Provides sustainable energy

A great source of vegan omega-3

Triple Threat Superfood

• An essential fatty acid the body requires for heart, skin, digestive, cognitive and vision health, yet cannot produce on its own (fish, chia seeds, and supplementation is essential)

• Excellent source of B vitamins, thiamine and niacin

• Good source of riboflavin and folate, calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorous and zinc!

• The addition of probiotics makes ProactivCHIA a triple threat SUPERFOOD (if omega-3 and loads of vitamins and minerals weren’t enough)

• Probiotics are the good bacteria that keep the digestive tract healthy and regular.

• Probiotics also strengthen the immune system (great for warding off colds!)

• Omega-3 + Vitamins/Minerals + Probiotics = TRIPLE THREAT SUPERFOOD!

I have been adding Chia to my morning yogurt, my smoothies and even my salad. They really have no taste at all and when wet feel like jelly in my mouth. I find them very easy to add to my diet and am hoping they are doing my system good.

Chia seeds have grown in popularity over the years due to the many health and nutritional benefits it provides, mainly being a great source of omega-3, protein, calcium and gut balancing fibre. Prana ProactivCHIA is a versatile way of enhancing health and maintaining healthy gut flora. One tablespoon sprinkled in smoothies, cereal, yogurt, salads, dressings, and juices enhance not only the nutritional profile, but also the texture of the food a well. Chia is also great for binding and thickening foods naturally.

Prana ProactivCHIA has hit retail shelves, in two varieties of 284 g (whole) and 200 g (ground), with a suggested MSRP of $7.99. ProactivCHIA, whole and ground can be found at all major grocery chains, health food stores, and supermarkets with healthy living aisles across Canada.

Once the weather cools off a bit, I plan on adding Chia to my baking. I think they will add a nice texture and added health benefits to muffins. I was happy to see this at my local Winners as well 🙂

For more information, please visit www.prana.com

Lentil & Brussel Sprout Salad with Creamy ProactivCHIA Dressing

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 20 minutes

Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

• 1 cup Puy lentils • 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth • 2 bay leaves • 1/2 cup of cranberries sweetened with apple juice • 1 cup pecans • 1/4 cup of maple syrup • 10 to 12 brussel sprouts • 2 green onions • sea salt and pepper to taste

Creamy ProactivCHIA Dressing

• 1/4 cup of olive oil • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar • 2 tbsp nutritional yeast • 1 tsp ProactivChia seeds • 2 tbsp maple syrup • Sea salt and pepper to taste

Mix the ingredients together in a bowl and set aside.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread out the pecans.

Pour the maple syrup all over and add a large pinch of sea salt and lightly stir.

Roast in the oven for 12 minutes at 300° F.

Set aside. Bring the lentils, broth (or salt water), and bay leaf to a boil in a small saucepan.

Cover and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes on low heat or until lentils are ‘’al dente’’.

Strain, set aside, and keep warm.

Chop the green onions, and peel the leaves off the Brussel sprouts.

In a large bowl, combine the cranberries, lentils, green onion and half of the dressing. Gently add the Brussel sprout leaves. Add the caramelized pecans on top. Add the remaining dressing and serve.

WHAT ARE PROBIOTICS?

Probiotics, derived from the Greek word pro, meaning, “promoting” and biotic, “meaning life”, are essentially the good bacteria needed for healthy digestive function and improved immune efficiency. Recommended dose is 1- 4 billion CFUs per day, or more for digestive issues. Always consult with a doctor for the right dosage for you.

Do you add Chia and probiotics to your diet?