Berry Chia Seed Jam (Healthy & Easy Recipe) - The Simple Veganista (2024)

FAQs

How long does it take for chia seeds to become jelly? ›

When chia seeds come in contact with liquid, they expand and form a gel. This makes them easier to digest. Chia seeds do not need to be soaked for a long time. In just five minutes, they have absorbed liquid, but we prefer to soak them for 20 minutes to achieve a pudding-like texture.

Chia seeds are loaded with fiber—11 grams per ounce. The soluble fiber makes the seeds absorbent and perfectly suited for creating a jam consistency when added to mashed or cooked fruit, but it also makes them filling and helpful with blood sugar regulation.

We deserve better. Better we shall have, and not only that, it will be far easier than making jam like grandma used to. The answer: chia seeds. These little orbs of nutrients hold up to 30 times their own weight in water, making them the perfect substitute for jam-thickening pectin.

Chia Seeds Could Interact with Medications

In addition, chia can also have an effect on blood sugar levels, as well as affect bleeding and blood clotting. If you have diabetes or blood clotting disorders, you should also talk to your doctor.

There is no RDA for chia seeds. Still, they can be safely eaten in amounts of 50 grams daily, which is about five tablespoons. Two tablespoons provide all of the nutritional benefits listed above. Soaked chia seeds have a gel-like texture.

Instead, it absorbs fluids and helps create bulky, soft stool. So yes, chia seeds have the right kind of fiber to loosen your poop and give you some constipation relief. “Chia seeds haven't been studied for constipation,” Czerwony notes, “but due to their fiber content, they are hypothesized to have a laxative effect.”

Both Chia seeds and Ginger have been shown in some studies to help suppress appetite. Feeling fuller for longer may lead to reduced calorie intake, which can contribute to weight loss, including fat loss in the belly area.

Chia seeds

"Chia seeds are rich in plant Omega 3 fats, called ALA. This particular type of Omega 3 fatty acid, like the DHA and EPA found in fatty fish, exerts liver-protective effects, reducing inflammation and supporting its natural detoxification processes," says Minchen.

Preserves are the closest thing to consuming whole fruit. They contain chunks of the actual fruit, making them richer in fiber and nutrients. As with jam, though, the sugar content can vary based on the brand or recipe. In terms of health benefits, preserves generally come out on top due to their whole fruit content.

Chia seeds have a fairly long shelf life, lasting anywhere from two to five years depending on their method of storage. At the bare minimum, be sure to keep the seeds in an airtight container that is stored in a cool, dry place like a pantry.

Is homemade jam healthier? ›

Making a homemade version of your favorite jam or jelly is easy, and it'll likely be a healthier alternative to store-bought products.

Although chia seeds offer a variety of health benefits, eating too many may lead to complications: Digestive issues. Because of their high fiber content, eating too many chia seeds may cause constipation, diarrhea, bloating, and gas.

Chia seeds are also an excellent source of anti-inflammatory ALA, but their biggest benefit is probably their high fiber content (about 10 grams per serving), which will you fill you up and help control weight, says Moore. Tips: Chia seeds absorb liquid easily and take on a jelly-like consistency.

Chia seeds are good for gut health because they contain fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients can increase the number of good bacteria, reduce the number of bad bacteria, and improve the gut lining. This prevents harmful bacteria from entering the body.

Seeds Not Expanding

"Using a liquid that's too thick will not properly hydrate your chia seeds," explains Roszkowski, adding that they're botanically built to swell when they come in contact with water. Solution: With that in mind, it's best to use water or another thin liquid like juice, tea, or nut milk.

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, until chia seeds have gelled and liquid has thickened. Serve with fruit. Enjoy! Note: Make sure to use a hom*ogenized full-fat coconut milk, not light coconut milk.

Chia formed hydrogel at seed-to-water ratio of 15% or higher while basil formed hydrogel at seed-to-water ratio of 6% or higher; below the respective seed-to-water ratios, the seeds merely formed partial gels and did not formed self-standing gels.

The fiber in chia seeds is mainly soluble fiber and mucilage, the substance responsible for the gluey texture of moistened chia seeds. These fibers may help to lower LDL cholesterol and slow down digestion, which can prevent blood sugar spikes after eating a meal and promote a feeling of fullness.