"Why Chia Seed Water Might Be the Health Boost You Need"

Why do people drink chia seed water?  

 

 

The humble chia seed was a health food in 2012, and now it's back in style, but with a new twist. TikTok's latest food trend is chia seed water, which fans claim has health benefits including improved digestion and weight loss. This has led to an increase in Google searches about chia seed drinks, but are the claims backed  by science? 

What is chia seed water? 

Chia seed water is exactly what it says on the tin: chia seeds mixed with water and a squeeze of lemon. The drink has recently gone viral on TikTok, with some people giving it the rather unsavory name "tadpole water" due to its frog-egg-like appearance. When the seeds  get wet, they expand, creating a gelatinous, chewy texture reminiscent of  tapioca pudding. 

 What are chia seeds? 

Chia  seeds are small black seeds that come from the plant Salvia hispanica, a flowering plant in the mint family native to South America. They are  often used in making overnight oats and puddings because they are versatile and absorb liquids well. 

What health benefits do they offer?

Chia seeds are known for their high nutritional value. In addition to antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids,  they are also high in fiber, which is essential for gut health, and minerals such as potassium and calcium, which are important for bone health. There is evidence that they may also be good for heart health, thanks to their anti-inflammatory properties and polyunsaturated fatty acid content. 

Chia seeds are high in dietary fiber and protein, which can help  you feel fuller for longer and aid in weight loss. Research on the subject is mixed, but some studies, such as this one, suggest that chia seed consumption may help increase satiety in the short term. However, a previous study from 2009 looked at the effect of chia seeds on weight loss and found no effect on weight or body composition.  So it's still not clear whether consuming chia seeds is an effective means of weight loss, and nutritionists recommend always  seeking personalized advice before making any major changes to your diet. But chia seeds are definitely packed with nutrients. They're not meant to be eaten alone, though, so the Tik Toker adds water to the mixture. A squeeze of lemon  adds vitamin C and gives the drink a light citrus flavor. 

Are chia seeds safe?

 Despite the many benefits of chia, it's important not to consume too much. Too many chia seeds can cause digestive problems and  even pose a choking hazard, as they swell when exposed to water and absorb 10 to 12 times their weight in liquid. Experts generally recommend consuming 1 to 2 tablespoons (about 10 to 20 grams) of chia seeds per day.  However, chia seed water may not be suitable for some people. Sarah Jeffries, a food safety expert at Pediatric First Aid, advises that "people with certain health problems, such as gastrointestinal disorders or difficulty swallowing, should consult with their doctor Before you add chia seeds to your diet: "It's important to consume chia seeds in moderation and with awareness."