Rich Cacao Protein Chia Pudding

This recipe is such a protein and fibre WIN! Easy to make in big batches to prep for those rushed morning breakfasts and ridiculously delicious. Who doesn’t want to eat chocolate pudding for breakfast…?

The afternoon energy slump, the cravings that hit out of nowhere and the nagging feeling that our bodies aren't getting all they need; these are all things that can be linked to unfulfilling breakfasts or lunches that are too light. It’s easy to reach for a quick fix.. some chips, bit of chocolate here or there… but what if a solution could be both genuinely nourishing AND yummy?

This is a quiet rebellion against depletion. It’s a simple, elegant way to feed your body and mind what they truly need. It’s rich, satisfying, and tastes like a decadent treat, but it's working hard behind the scenes to support your well-being.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup unsweetened raw cacao powder

• 3-4 pitted medjool dates

• 1 scoop of protein/collagen powder of choice (I used 3 tablespoons Hemp seed powder)

• 1/2 cup chia seeds

• 2.5 cups of milk of choice (I used soy)

• 1 tsp inulin powder (optional)

• Toppings of choice; raspberries, strawberries, pistachios, walnuts or yogurt all work well here.

Steps:

1. In a small bowl, add the dates and cover with boiled water to soften.

2. After 5 minutes or so, add the dates, cacao powder, protein powder, chia seeds, milk and inulin powder to a high speed blender. Blend until perfectly smooth.

3. Transfer equal parts into jars of desired size and let set in the fridge for an hour, but preferably overnight.

4. When ready to serve, add desired toppings and enjoy!

Keeps fresh for 4 days in the fridge.

Benefits:

The Gut-Friendly, Hormone-Happy, Iron-Loving Treat

As a naturopath, I'm always looking at the root causes of common issues like fatigue, gut complaints and hormone imbalances. And time and time again, I come back to a few key players: stable blood sugar, fiber, protein, and essential minerals. This recipe hits every. single. one.

• The Gut-Brain Connection: Chia seeds are a powerhouse of soluble fiber. This kind of fiber is a prebiotic, meaning it feeds the beneficial bacteria in your gut. The added inulin fibre is also a powerful prebiotic used to build a robust microbiome and promote immunity. A happy gut microbiome is directly linked to better mood, reduced inflammation, and improved nutrient absorption.

• Balancing Blood Sugar: The combination of fiber, healthy fats, and protein in this pudding is a triple threat against blood sugar spikes. This means no more crash-and-burn energy dips an hour after you eat. You'll feel satiated and stable, supporting your adrenals and reducing cortisol surges. Additionally, chia seeds are considered to be a therapeutic weapon against metabolic disorders. Chia fiber reduces the blood glucose level and provides bulk to stool, effectively helping to reduce cholesterol and maintain a healthy weight.

• Hormonal Harmony: Protein is essential for building hormones, and healthy fats from the chia seeds are key for hormone synthesis. This pudding is an easy and delicious way to ensure you're getting the building blocks you need to support a healthy menstrual cycle and overall hormonal health. Fibre intake is directly linked to hormone metabolism as fibre binds to and excretes excess hormones from our gastrointestinal system. Preventing the reuptake of oestrogen and other unwanted hormones.

• Iron & Energy: Cacao powder is a surprisingly good source of non-heme iron, and chia seeds provide a small but mighty dose too. While plant-based iron is best absorbed alongside a source of Vitamin C, every bit counts towards supporting healthy iron levels, combating mineral deficiency and deficiency.

This recipe is perfect for those who struggle with:

• not getting enough fibre

• constipation

• insulin resistance

• type 2 diabetes

• weight management

• diarrhoea

• inflammatory conditions

• autoimmune conditions

• recovering after one or multiple courses of antibiotics

• intestinal dysbiosis

• leaky gut

• high cholesterol

• IBS

• SIBO

• fatigue or low energy

• gluten-free breakfasts

• coeliac disease or gluten sensitivity

  Or those just looking to boost their nutrient intake and diversify their diet! This recipe is a supportive dietary addition and not a cure for any specific condition. It should be part of a holistic approach that may include other dietary changes, lifestyle modifications and/or medical treatment as recommended by a qualified healthcare professional.