Dark Chocolate Cherry Chia Parfait (Vegan & Gluten-free)

Ok, so this recipe was actually created and inspired by my menstrual cycle but let’s get one thing straight, this vegan, gluten-free Dark Chocolate Cherry Chia Parfait can be enjoyed by ANYONE. It is loaded with coconut milk, chia seeds, dark cherries, pumpkin seeds, almond butter, chocolate chunks, cacao powder and vanilla extract. It is truly the perfect go-to recipe for an easy grab-and-go breakfast, snack or dessert option. Simply make your chia parfait in a glass jar and store overnight or eat right away.

The Perfect Nourishing Combo for PMS

LADIES, this was actually made for you! Over the years, as I’ve tapped into my own menstrual cycle, mood and cravings and have observed that the week before my period (the luteal phase), I start to crave carbs and dark chocolate. Lots of dark chocolate… and I recognize that this is because my body is signalling me to load up on minerals such as iron and magnesium in preparation for my cycle to begin again. This parfait was truly created for to nourish the menstruating women, however everyone can benefit from the whole foods in this recipe.

The female body actually goes through a stage of depletion while menstruating as the uterine lining sheds and contracts. Our bodies require more energy and minerals to keep up with the expenditure of this glorious task. Cacao is high in magnesium and iron; chia seeds and pumpkin seeds contain omega 3 fatty acids and zinc to support changing hormones, while the fibre, healthy fats and natural sweetness help to satisfy those PMS sugar cravings. It’s super important to listen to your body during this time and feed it nourishing whole foods which can also help to minimize PMS symptoms. Give it a try for yourself and start paying attention to your body’s cues.