(Psst: The FTC wants me to remind you that this website contains affiliate links. That means if you make a purchase from a link you click on, I might receive a small commission. This does not increase the price you'll pay for that item nor does it decrease the awesomeness of the item. ~ Daisy)

This is the first in a series on how I use superfoods in my daily life to improve my health. However, superfoods also play an important role in my preps. As they are packed with nutrients that would be hard to come by in SHTF, my thoughtful stashing of my superfood friends in my pantry and preps will serve me well should food become scarce. 

In this article, I will discuss my first go-to superfood friend: chia seeds. Often called a superfood, these little seeds come from the Salvia hispanica plant, which is native to Mexico and Guatemala. These seeds have a long and proud history, reaching back to the Mayan and Aztec cultures. In fact, the name “chia” means strength in the Mayan language. As the story goes, Aztec warriors could go an entire day just on a spoonful of these healthy seeds.

Want to get started with chia seeds? You can grab a bag of organic chia seeds for around $5 and read on for how to use them.

What’s So Good About Them?

I have to admit that doing the research on these little goodies was a tad overwhelming. There are literally so many benefits to these little seeds that I was at risk of running out of space! So, what’s a writer to do? Well, here’s a list of benefits from an article that was reviewed by a medical doctor:

-Help with weight loss

-Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids

-Prevent constipation

-Regulate blood sugar, could help prevent diabetes

-Fight breast cancer and other cancers

-Support healthy blood lipid levels

-Boost energy and metabolism

-Possible workout drink (*think Aztec warriors)

-Packed with protein

-Enhance mood

-Rich in antioxidants

-Good for bones and teeth

-Can improve skin health

-Can help treat diverticulosis

-Excellent egg substitute

-Anti-inflammatory properties

-They are gluten free

-Rich in manganese

-Rich in magnesium

-Said to improve sleep 

Woweeee! That’s a whole lot of benefits!

In looking at the list above, I wanted to understand a bit more about how such a little thing can accomplish so much. According to the Cleveland Clinic, chia seeds are packed with a number of different antioxidants. They have high levels of protein, including all nine of the amino acids considered essential. In terms of fat, they are full of healthy ones, like Omega-3 fatty acids. They also have a number of minerals to offer, as well as B-vitamins. 

How I Eat Them Daily

I don’t find it difficult to eat the recommended amount of chia seeds daily, which is around 2 tablespoons. I add them to my protein bowl daily, which has a base of kefir and contains a variety of nuts, seeds, and therapeutic herbs. 

What Makes Them Good for Prepping?

I think there are a few reasons why these rock as a prep. The first is that they naturally have a long shelf life. If stored properly in a cool dry place, they can last several years. Even once you open the package, they can last a year or two. The better your storage situation, the longer they will last. If you are able to use a vacuum sealer, all the better. If you are concerned about the freshness of your chia seeds, keep an eye out for any change in odor, color, or taste. 

Another reason that chia seeds are great for prepping is their simplicity. It is healthy to eat them just soaked in water. In fact, eating them this way will help keep you feeling full. Sometimes, this is called chia pudding. You can add other ingredients to make your chia pudding more tasty. Here’s a recipe from Healthline that can help get you thinking of your own pantry possibilities:

Try this today: If you’ve never had chia pudding before, it’s time to try it!

Simply combine 1 oz (2 tbs or 28 g) of chia seeds with 1/2 cup (118 milliliters (mL)) of milk of your choice. Add 1 teaspoon (tsp) of maple syrup or honey if desired. 

Stir everything together, transfer the mixture to jars, and keep them in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. Top your chia pudding with fresh fruit and nuts or seeds before enjoying it. 

You can experiment with flavor combinations like peanut butter and mashed strawberry, coconut milk and mango, or cocoa powder and banana. 

Finally, even if you have your own chickens right now, who knows how they’ll fare during SHTF? Isn’t it nice to know that, if you need an egg for a recipe, all you need to do is “crack” open one of your vacuum-sealed bags of chia seeds for a substitute? Here’s how to do it, according to StyleCraze: 

The process is simple. All you need are a tablespoon of chia seeds and 3 tablespoons of water. Ground the chia seeds, and then mix them with water in a small bowl. Keep it aside for 5 minutes, post which the mixture takes on a gooey consistency – similar to raw egg yolk. You can add this to your dishes and enjoy the goodness of high-quality protein. 

Are There Any Dangers Lurking?

As with anything, there are some considerations to keep in mind. Always talk to your doctor before making major dietary changes. Adding a lot of fiber to your diet suddenly is not a good idea! As well, chia seeds are not recommended for folks with history of a clotting disorder or low blood pressure. If you are allergic to mustard or sesame seeds, you should not eat them. Consult with your doctor! 

Another danger of chia seeds is taking them improperly. As they can absorb up to 27 times their weight in water, it can be dangerous to eat them dry, or along with an inadequate amount of water. Eating them dry can also be a choking hazard. 

Chia Seeds: Sometimes It’s the Little Preps That Matter

I consider this superfood seed to be a superprep. Could you see yourself adding chia seeds to your preps in the future? Do you have your own way you already like to eat them or store them that you can share with us?

Please tell us in the comments section.

About Rowan

Rowan O’Malley is a fourth-generation Irish American who loves all things green: plants (especially shamrocks), trees, herbs, and weeds! She challenges herself daily to live her best life and to be as fit, healthy, and prepared as possible.