Today I’m pleased to share a guest post by Jamie Long. I’m looking forward to trying the recipe, too!
High cholesterol and cognitive disorders are two of the most common health problems in the US today. A cholesterol fact sheet from the CDC- Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention, shows 71 million American adults have high low-density lipoprotein or “bad” cholesterol, the leading cause of heart disease. According to the American Psychological Association, approximately 20 percent of adults aged 55 and over suffer from a mental disorder, the most common being severe cognitive impairment (e.g., Alzheimer’s disease).
As we grow older, our body and mind tend to deteriorate. We can lower our risk of getting heart disease and cognitive disorders by a healthy diet and regular mental exercise. So, why not try chia seeds and bingo?
Chia are tiny black and white seeds that are used as energy boosters. It originates from a flowering plant in the mint family that’s native to Mexico and Guatemala. North America was unfamiliar with chia until researcher Wayne Coates began studying it in 1991. His research shows its positive health effects such as boosting energy, stabilizing blood sugar, aiding digestion, and lowering cholesterol. It is likewise rich in omega-3 fatty acids, carbohydrates, protein, fiber, antioxidants, and calcium. It can also aid in weight loss as it makes you feel fuller faster. Chia seeds are tasteless so you can easily incorporate them in your meals.
Another thing that’s beneficial to your wellbeing is playing bingo. According to the Psychology Department at the University of Southampton, playing bingo regularly can sharpen your mental abilities. It also lowers the risk of getting cognitive disorders as you grow older. Studies show the same effect with online bingo.
Because of the growing online gaming industry, people now have the convenience of playing bingo online. In a recent interview, Michael Buckley, Executive Chairman of Gaming Realms, operator of online bingo game Bingoiceland.com, said: “The online gaming environment is expanding, particularly in the mobile and tablet space.” Much of this market growth will come from the increased adoption of smart phones by consumers.
With all that in mind, here is a recipe of a refreshing and nutritious dessert you can snack on while playing online bingo. Chia Seed Pudding from Food Network’s celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis.
Image credit: Kana Okada via Food Network
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 cup plain low-fat (2 percent) Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (preferably grade B), plus 4 teaspoons for serving
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Kosher salt
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1 pint strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
Instructions
- Gently whisk the almond milk, yogurt, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, the vanilla and 1/8 teaspoon salt in a medium bowl until just blended.
- Whip in the chia seeds; let stand 30 minutes. Stir to distribute the seeds if they have settled. Cover and place in the fridge overnight.
- The following day, toss the berries with the remaining 4 teaspoons maple syrup in a medium bowl. Blend in the almonds.
- Scoop the pudding into 4 bowls or glasses; put the berry mixture on top and serve.
