The short answer: Vata types are balanced by warm, grounding, nourishing foods. This chia seed pudding with dates, blueberries and almond milk takes about 10 minutes to prepare, serves 3 to 4 and is left at room temperature rather than chilled, which suits Vata.
The Vata dosha is associated with people who are extremely enthusiastic, full of energy and very active. According to Ayurveda, Vata types benefit from having foods that balance out the dry air and ether elements, such as soups or hearty, warming meals. A Chia seed breakfast pudding is the perfect way to incorporate a balancing Vata breakfast into the Vata diet, as the oats being soaked overnight in milk not only makes a filling breakfast, but also balances the dosha.
The word Chia means ‘strength’ simply because of how much protein is packed into the tiny seeds which leave you feeling fuller for longer. They are also considered a superfood due to the high quantities of nutrients they contain, so they are definitely something you should be incorporating into your diet!
You don't need a commercial kitchen installation in your home to whip it up. It is so easy to make and it will only take about 10 minutes of preparation! Try it out with this recipe:
Ingredients:
6-8 tablespoons chia seeds ½ teaspoon Season Spice Blend 20g chopped dates 50g fresh blueberries ½ teaspoon vanilla extract 500ml almond milk 1 pinch ground ginger 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup, to tasteMethod:
- Stir the chia seeds, spice blend and dates together in a medium-size bowl
- Stir in the maple syrup, vanilla and almond milk. Then stir well to ensure there are no lumps
- Cover the bowl and let it stand at room temperature (the latter is important for Vatas)
- Add the pinch of ginger, maple syrup and fresh blueberries on top to serve
- Enjoy your protein packed breaky!
Benefits of Chia Seeds:
- High in fibre – 9 grams in 3 tablespoons
- Highest source of Omega-3 fatty acids in plant based foods
- Full of vitamins – calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, antioxidants
- High in protein – keeps you full longer
- Contain tryptophan – helps you sleep
- Aid in hydration – because they absorb liquids, eating them keeps you hydrated from that extra boost of electrolytes
Frequently Asked Questions
What should Vata types eat for breakfast?
Warm, hearty and grounding foods, such as soaked chia or oats, rather than cold or dry breakfasts.
Why leave the pudding at room temperature?
Vata is cool and dry by nature, so Ayurveda favours foods that are not served cold.
Are chia seeds good for you?
Chia seeds are high in fibre and protein and are one of the richest plant sources of omega-3 fatty acids.
