Adding chia seeds to smoothies

[supersonic_528]

I want to start adding chia seeds to my green smoothies but I have never used chia seeds before. Shall I just put the whole chia seeds in the blender (along with the greens), or does it need to be ground first? Does it need soaking? Also, how much chia seed do I use for 1 serving of smoothie (20 oz)?

Currently I add flax seeds to my green smoothie. Is there any need to continue using flax seed in smoothie if I'm using chia seeds? I read that chia seeds have most benefits of flax seeds and are probably even better.

[RawKnitster]

Put 2 Tablespoons of chia seeds in a jar and add 1 cup plus 2 Tablespoons of water (1 to 9 ratio). Cap the jar and shake. Shake it every couple minutes for 10 minutes or so until the water thickens and the seeds stop dropping to the bottom. If it clumps break it up with a spoon as best you can, but frequent shaking will prevent clumping. Once it gels store in the fridge until ready to add to your smoothie. Will keep for 2 weeks. Don't try to drain the seeds. Put the seeds and gel in your smoothie.

I have not tested whether it really keeps for 2 weeks. I usually only make enough to last 2-3 days at a time. Make as much as you like, but keep the balance of 1 part seeds to 9 parts water.

Start with 1-2 Tablespoons in a smoothie (half or all of the jar). Work your way up from there.

[spicyfull]

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