If you’re not already taking a magnesium supplement (read more about this in my blog, Choosing Supplements When Navigating Peri/Menopause, by CLICKING HERE), you can also benefit by adding foods that are rich with this essential mineral into your meal plans. Magnesium is well known for helping to prevent osteoporosis, improving your sleep and lowering symptoms of anxiety and depression, especially for women going through this natural change. Food sources that contain high amounts of natural magnesium include, pumpkin and chia seeds, cashew nuts, organic spinach, organic almond butter, brown rice and avocados. So, with that in mind, here’s one of my favourite magnesium-rich dishes that I hope you’ll also love — it’s a healthy pudding that will satisfy any sweet tooth, as well as boost this vital mineral in your body!!!

Ingredients

•  3 heaped tbsp chia seeds (white and/or black)
• 240 ml coconut milk (or any organic dairy/non-dairy milk)
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1-2 tsp pure maple syrup (or organic honey) to taste
• Sliced banana, blueberries, raspberries and/or blackberries

Directions

This one’s really easy. Just grab a small bowl or ramekin and add the 3 heaped tablespoons of chia seeds. Next, add the coconut milk (or water) and stir, then cover and stick in the fridge. And that’s it. You should allow for your chia pudding to soak for at least 4 hours in order to hydrate the seeds so that it gels sufficiently. I usually make this chia pudding the night before, so that it soaks for at least 8 hours.

I find the texture and flavour of this pudding is lovelier if you are able to soak and fully hydrate the seeds for between 8-12 hours, which is why I let it do its magic overnight. Then you simply add slide bananas and berries of your choice (making sure that they’re organic!!!) You could also add spices like cinnamon or vanilla, garnish with some flaked almonds and/or add a tsp of real maple syrup or honey. Get creative with your toppings until you find what works for you!!!

Enjoy!!!

Love, Gaynor x