Overnight Brain Fuel: Quick, easy & filling chia seed pudding

This super brain-and-body-fueling healthy breakfast or snack couldn’t be easier, more fun, or more deliciously satisfying knowing you whipped it up in about a minute.

Even better, you can make a bunch of individual servings to meal prep for the whole work week. Boom! Look at you go with your extra morning time.

Why Chia Seeds?

Okay, you’ve probably heard of overnight oats where you make a similar recipe using raw oat flakes that absorb the liquid and help this solidify, but this breakfast/healthy snack uses chia seeds, an ancient Native American superfood. When dry, chia seeds look like the tiny little seeds that you see on the outside of your strawberries, but when they absorb moisture, they plump up into a pudding texture that's protein-and-nutrient rich, and easily digestible to keep you driven all day long.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

At the forefront of chia seed benefits is their rich omega-3 fatty acid content. These essential fatty acids, specifically alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), contribute significantly to brain health. ALA plays a crucial role in supporting brain function, enhancing memory, and promoting overall cognitive health.

Additionally, the infusion of dietary fiber ensures sustained energy levels, keeping you sharp throughout the day.

Fiber Content

Chia seeds boast an impressive fiber profile, packing a punch with both soluble and insoluble fiber. This combination not only aids digestion but also promotes a feeling of fullness, making it a valuable ally in weight management. The soluble fiber, in particular, helps regulate blood sugar levels and maintain a healthy cholesterol balance.

Antioxidants

Rich in antioxidants, chia seeds combat oxidative stress and help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. These antioxidants, including quercetin, chlorogenic acid, and caffeic acid, contribute to overall health by reducing inflammation and supporting the body's natural defense mechanisms.

Overnight Chia Pudding

At first, this will look like it’s too liquid-y to turn into a textured, solid pudding, but that’s the magic of the chia seeds: They can absorb up to 12 times their weight in liquid! So, when you stick your jars in the fridge overnight, the black chia seeds will do their thing.

We also supercharge this recipe with Mdrive Brain, our nootropic shake powder. Mdrive Brain has a delicious chocolate-berry flavor and is packed with clinically tested ingredients to make it an elite cognitive health boost.

• Beat brain fog with Brain Factor-7, an silk peptoid that’s shown to improve memory and learning ability

• Improve mood, cognitive function and focus with Lion’s Mane and EnXtra. 

Chia Seed Pudding Ingredients

For 5 meal prep servings:

• 1 can coconut milk (you can find this in most grocery stores)

• 3 large bananas

• 1 cup fresh strawberries (frozen works fine too!)

• 3 scoops Mdrive Brain

• 3 TBSP maple syrup or agave

• 12 TBSP chia seeds (whole, not ground)

• Toppings of your choice, some of my favorites are: granola, fresh berries, ground cinnamon, and shredded coconut

You’ll also need:
(5x) 8-oz mason jars with lids.

A note on mason jars:
I cannot recommend mason jars enough for practically anything kitchen related. I suggest having many of these on hand in a variety of sizes because they can serve as de facto drink glasses (yes, beer, included); or to store extra sauces, soups, liquids; or, really to store any extra food during meal prep or leftovers as they can take the place of ‘Tupperware’ while taking up less space in your fridge (they’re more vertical). They also make great to-go containers for liquids or solid foods/snacks. Because they have screw on lids, you can take your morning beverage right into your vehicle and pop it into your cup holder, no spills!

Instructions

1. Blend canned coconut milk, bananas, strawberries, Mdrive Brain and maple syrup or agave in a blender until smooth.

2. Pour an even amount into your five mason jars.

3. Mix in 2-3 heaping tablespoons of whole chia seeds into each jar and give them each a good mix.

4. Screw on the lids and pop in the refrigerator for at least five 5 hours or overnight for them to thicken up!

5. When you're ready to eat, add your toppings of choice and enjoy!

The result is a fairly light but decadent meal or snack that won’t weigh you down but is filled with an awesome amount of nutrition including healthy fats, protein, and even some carbs. 

The sealed chia seed pudding will last 5 to 7 days in the fridge, making it an awesome meal prep option. So take a few minutes to whip up a batch on Sunday night and have a grab-and-go nutritious breakfast ready for you all week long!

Conclusion

It's a basic recipe, but the great thing about this chia pudding is that it's so easy to customize it to your heart's desire (or based on what you have on hand)! Substitute coconut milk for either almond milk or oat milk, swap out the strawberries for another fresh fruit, add nut butter to the mix, switch up your toppings. The possibilities are endless!

If you try this recipe, let us know how you like it or what customizations you made in the comments below!

FAQ

Is chia pudding actually good for you?

Chia pudding is indeed a nutritional powerhouse, making it a stellar addition to a balanced diet. Chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants. Omega-3s support heart health and cognitive function, while fiber aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness. The antioxidants in chia seeds help combat oxidative stress. When combined with wholesome ingredients like milk and fruits, this chia pudding recipe becomes a hearty and nutrient-dense breakfast option.

Is it OK to eat chia pudding every morning?

Yes, incorporating chia pudding into your morning routine is not only acceptable but also advantageous. Chia seeds offer sustained energy, making them an excellent choice for kickstarting your day. The diverse nutritional profile of chia pudding ensures you receive essential nutrients, contributing to overall well-being. However, as with any food, moderation is key. Variety in your breakfast choices ensures a broad spectrum of nutrients.

Do chia seeds have any side effects?

Chia seeds are generally safe for consumption and provide numerous health benefits. However, some individuals may experience minor side effects. Due to their high fiber content, consuming large quantities without sufficient water intake may lead to digestive discomfort. It's advisable to start with smaller amounts and gradually increase intake. Additionally, individuals with certain medical conditions or those on specific medications should consult a healthcare professional before incorporating large quantities of chia seeds into their diet.

What is Mdrive Brain?

Mdrive Brain is a nootropics dietary supplement powder designed to support cognitive function and brain health. It's built around Brain Factor-7, a natural peptide powder that is scientifically shown to support brain function, memory preservation and cognitive ability. Mdrive Brain is packed with additional benefits to power your brain health. Lion’s Mane, a powerful mushroom extract widely known for aiding mental clarity, helps you stay sharp and take on the day. Cordyceps mushroom extract supports energy and stamina. BettaBerries antioxidant blend helps fight free radicals.