Kitchen Essentials

Along with all my other powder based supplements (see previous post here), I also make sure I always add enough good oils in my daily routine. As well as 1 tsp of coconut oil in my morning concoction, I’ve recently been testing out these delicious oils…

THE CHIA CO. CHIA OIL 

I LOVE Chia. I have it on everything! Porridge, smoothies, salads, stir-fries, soups, coconut yoghurt, soaked (in almond milk), in my water bottles, etc. The list goes on and ON. I love eating them both raw and soaked, and although they don’t taste much, they are so good for you! Since discovering Chia, my skin has become so much softer and clearer; I can’t imagine a life without it, to be honest.

Chia seeds are the richest combined source of Omega 3 (how about that!), super high in fibre (some say it has more dietary fibre than any other food from nature) & protein; all good things if you’re on a non/low animal protein diet. Chia also supports a healthy heart, joint mobility, super healthy hair and skin. The oil doesn’t taste much, so it’s a pretty easy and non-disguisable ingredient so pop in your morning breakfast routine (if you’re a bit sensitive). I normally have 1tsp a day, and my skin has never felt clearer or smoother.

Buy here, £15.39.

VIRIDIAN ORGANIC BEAUTY OIL 

I was super excited to try this oil from Viridian, which contains all the essential fatty acids your body needs: hemp, flax seed, avocado, primrose, pumpkin, to mention a few. It also has potent antioxidants including vitamin E, alpha-carotene, beta carotene and lutein. There’s a reason they’re called ‘essential fatty acids’ – as they’re not something your body can produce on their own, and they’re generally just amazing for you (don’t be afraid of the ‘fatty’ word): good for the brain, skin, prevents blood clots and blocks the growth of breast cancer cells (the list goes on). I’ve always eaten a lot of fish, however recently I’ve moved more over to a plant-based vegan diet, so it’s super important I get all these fats from my other foods and supplements (flax seeds and nuts are also great source of fatty acids).

So far, I’ve been having the oil in my smoothies (2 tsp per day). The oil has a yummy nutty flavour (which I personally love), and makes my smoothies extra creamy! I also drizzle it on salads and steamed veg.

Buy here, from £9.85.