Chia seed pudding is a perfect way to pair probiotics and protein in one creamy, cultured snack or meal. You can boost any chia pudding recipe with protein and probiotics with Lifeway Kefir (or Farmer Cheese) which are each excellent sources of both! Chia seeds are also a wealth of nutrients on their own, and while they might seem trendy compared to other sources of protein, these tiny seeds have been used for many years in other cultures who valued their nutritional benefits for a healthy life. Kefir is another original “superfood” that has been around for earlier than most people know, and we’re proud to bring it to you for all the incredible nutritional benefits it has.
Chia Seeds + Lifeway Kefir = The Perfect Pudding Pair
Chia seeds are most well-known for their high-fiber content, but they’re also a complete source of protein since they contain all essential amino acids, and they’re potent sources of critical minerals like iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and zinc. These tiny, mighty seeds take longer to digest than some other sources of fiber, which can help keep you hydrated and satisfied longer since they absorb over 10 times their weight in water. Chia seeds are also high in omega-3 fatty acids and act as anti-inflammatory agents, so they’re excellent to put into protein pudding recipes with Lifeway Kefir, which has its own anti-inflammatory benefits, healthy fats, and sustaining protein. Our kefir’s probiotics also make the fiber in chia seeds easier to digest creating a synbiotic environment for your microbiome. This means they make the perfect probiotic, prebiotic pair!
Check out five of our favorite chia seed pudding recipes, all rich in protein, fiber, and probiotics. These are just some examples of how easy it is to support your gut health with Lifeway Kefir while boosting it with a superfood like chia seeds, and we encourage you to let these be inspiration to you to make them your own!
1. Apple Crumble Protein Chia Pudding
With flavor notes of fall, this Apple Crumble Protein Chia Pudding made with Organic Vanilla Whole Milk Lifeway Kefir can be enjoyed all year long any time you want to experience the taste of comfort. Its creamy texture with warm spices, silky smooth Lifeway Kefir, nutty pecans, and sweet apples makes for a delightful way to start the day since it’s rich in fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals, plus you can make it ahead for busy mornings on-the-go! Did we mention it’s also perfect since you don’t have to turn on the oven when it’s too hot outside to cook? Get this recipe here!
2. Matcha Kefir Chia Seed Pudding
Matcha is having (another) moment, and we’re here for it! Matcha is a favorite here at Lifeway, since we have several kefir products made with real matcha green tea in them. Matcha is a superfood for your brain, skin, and gut health since it boasts benefits for all of these areas and more. Check out this chia seed pudding recipe that’s simple to make using our Organic Ceremonial Matcha Whole Milk Kefir. Feel free to use our plain kefir and a little extra matcha powder if you can’t find any of our matcha flavors of kefir. Either way will be delicious and healthy!
3. Banana, Raspberry Chia Pudding Parfaits
Our Banana Raspberry Chia Pudding Parfaits make a healthy breakfast, lunch, or snack since they’re rich in vitamins, minerals, protein, fiber, and flavor! These parfaits have prebiotic fiber from bananas, chia seeds, raspberries, oats, and have probiotics from Lifeway Kefir, which is rich in complete protein so your gut stays happy and your tummy stays satisfied. Get this healthy recipe and make it today!
4. Strawberry Milkshake Chia Pudding
Strawberry milkshake made healthy? Sign us up! This recipe features one of our Strawberry Banana Organic Whole Milk Kefir, which you could easily swap with our low-fat flavor if that suits your taste or is easier to find. Either way, this recipe allows you to indulge in a classic flavor you love in a creamy base of chia pudding that satisfies hunger and calms the sweet tooth cravings. Thanks to the probiotics and protein in Lifeway Kefir, you can also feel good knowing you’re doing your body good—even in the form of a milkshake-inspired treat!
5. Chocolate Cherry Chia Pudding
Another ice cream-inspired chia pudding is our Chocolate Cherry Chia Pudding which features our Organic Black Cherry Whole Milk Kefir, a fan favorite! It’s also rich in antioxidants thanks to the cherries and cacao we used here, along with being a great source of probiotics and protein with Lifeway Kefir and fiber from chia seeds! Top this pudding with your favorite nuts, seeds, and other toppings and enjoy a treat-inspired cup of chia pudding on us. Get this recipe here!
Get more healthy recipes here on our recipes page, and feel free to give us a follow on social media whatever your favorite platform is! Find us on Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest, and Facebook and use the hashtag #LoveYourGuts and #LifewayLovesYourGuts to share your gut health journey with us!