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Winter mornings often call for warm, comforting, and nutritious meals to fuel your day. Seeds, though tiny, are nutritional powerhouses packed with essential nutrients like fibre, omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and antioxidants. Incorporating seeds into your morning routine not only enhances the taste of your meals but also supports your overall health, especially during the colder months when immunity needs a boost.
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Whether you are looking to improve digestion, maintain energy levels, or simply enjoy a variety of flavours, seeds are a versatile and easy addition to your breakfast. Here are some creative and practical ways to add seeds to your winter mornings and enjoy their health benefits to the fullest.
Sprinkle Seeds On Your Oatmeal Or Porridge
Oatmeal and porridge are winter staples that pair wonderfully with seeds. After preparing your bowl of warm oats, sprinkle a mix of sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and sesame seeds on top. Not only do they add a delightful crunch, but they also boost the meal’s nutritional value. Sunflower seeds are high in vitamin E, which supports skin health during the dry winter months. Pumpkin seeds provide magnesium and zinc, aiding in muscle function and immune health. For a flavour twist, lightly toast the seeds before sprinkling them over your oatmeal.
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Add Seeds To Your Smoothie
Smoothies are a quick and delicious breakfast option, and seeds can take them to the next level. Chia seeds, flaxseeds, and hemp seeds are particularly great additions. Simply blend your favourite fruits, vegetables, and milk or yoghurt, and toss in a tablespoon of seeds. Chia seeds thicken the smoothie while providing omega-3 fatty acids and fibre. Flaxseeds offer a nutty flavour and are rich in lignans, which are known for their antioxidant properties. Hemp seeds contribute a creamy texture and add a dose of plant-based protein. For best results, grind flaxseeds before adding them to ensure better nutrient absorption.
Seeds In Your Yogurt Parfait
Yogurt parfaits are not just for summer; they can be a comforting winter breakfast too. Layer your yoghurt with granola, fresh fruits, and a generous topping of seeds like chia, flax, and sesame. The seeds add texture and enhance the nutritional content of the parfait. Chia seeds absorb the yoghurt’s moisture, creating a pudding-like consistency, while flaxseeds and sesame seeds add crunch and a nutty flavour. This combination is a great source of calcium, protein, and healthy fats, keeping you satisfied and energised throughout the morning.
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Make Seed-Infused Water
Hydration is essential even in winter, and Saeed-infused water is a refreshing way to stay hydrated while gaining extra nutrients. Chia seed water is a popular choice. Simply soak a tablespoon of chia seeds in a glass of water overnight. In the morning, stir and enjoy a hydrating drink rich in fibre and omega-3 fatty acids. Another option is to add basil seeds (also known as sabja seeds) to warm water with a dash of honey and lemon. Basil seeds help regulate digestion and provide a soothing effect during colder months.
Image Credits: Freepik
Bake Seeds Into Your Breakfast
Baking with seeds is a fantastic way to enjoy their benefits without altering your routine too much. You can add seeds like sunflower, sesame, and poppy to your pancake or waffle batter for extra crunch and flavour. For a hearty breakfast, bake saeed-studded bread or muffins. Seeds not only enhance the taste but also increase the fibre and nutrient content of baked goods. If you’re a fan of granola bars, try making your own by mixing oats, honey, dried fruits, and a variety of seeds. These bars are perfect for a quick, on-the-go breakfast on busy winter mornings.
