I always enjoy our Spring Sugar Detox, mostly because it's a time focused on examining our relationship to sugar, how common it is to over-consume, and how easy it can be to replace refined sugar with more healthful options.
Our bodies are wired to crave sugar, in fact we NEED sugar in order to give us energy and even to fuel our brain cells. With the onset of refined sugar and processed foods, however, the average America consumes way more sugar than is considered healthful. In fact, American sugar consumption has gone from about 4 pounds per person per year (at the time of the American Revolution) to about 160 pounds per person per year! (source nutritionfacts.org).
I love these chia puddings because not only to they offer flavors that can satisfy sweet cravings, but they are also jam-packed with nutrients and also super simple to make! We love them so much, in fact that we've offered two options here for you to get creative with. And they are so pretty and delicious, you can enjoy these for breakfast, an afternoon treat or even a decadent dessert. Wouldn't these look cheery on a holiday buffet?
All you need is a few simple ingredients:
chia seeds
hemp seeds
lemon and/or orange
shredded coconut
turmeric, optional
vanilla extract
salt
lucuma powder
coconut yogurt, banana slices, aquafaba whip, optional for garnish
Chia Seeds are an excellent source of anti-inflammatory, plant-based protein. Loaded with omega-3 (pound for pound, 8X the amount found in salmon). Just 2 tablespoons provides 25% of our daily fiber requirements and up to 4 grams of complete protein (meaning all essential amino acids). They also contain beneficial phytonutrients, including quercetin and other metabolism-boosting elements. They are also hydrophyllic, and help with hydration as they hold on to liquid in the body. The Tarahumara Indians famously used these super seeds before long races in the dry desert heat.
Lucuma Powder (aka "gold of the Incas") is a powdered form of the fruit of the lucuma tree.By weight, it is less sweet than table sugar so you may need to use a bit more in your recipes when swapping. Lucuma is considered a whole food sweetener and offers more nutritional benefits, including calcium, iron and potassium, as well as fiber that will help produce short chain fatty acids (including butyrate) that help to feed healthy gut bacteria.
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