The viral TikTok trend recommending chia seeds in your daily diet could cause serious digestive problems if this ingredient isn’t used correctly, according to a dietary expert.
Chia Seeds In Your Daily Diet Can Cause Digestive Problems
After noting that chia seed-related hashtags have had more than 300,000 posts on TikTok, the experts at NYO3, a Norwegian diet supplement brand, explained that chia seeds require proper preparation before consumption, which many are failing to do as they follow the new diet trend.
Chia seeds absorb up to 27 times their weight in water, which means that when consumed dry, they continue this absorption process inside your digestive tract and can form a concrete-like mass that can cause blockages.
Here is a quick snapshot of how chia seeds behave once they hit liquid:
Here is a quick snapshot of how chia seeds behave once they hit liquid:
While this absorption property is beneficial when properly harnessed, the downside is that there is substantial risk when the seeds are eaten dry or without enough liquid.
The best ways to consume chia seeds and avoid dangerous ways of following the health trend are:
- Soak chia seeds before eating them. Mix chia seeds in with porridge, milk, or just plain water and leave to soak before consuming.
- Always mix chia seeds with enough liquid – the more, the better: Use plenty of liquid to allow chia seeds to fully expand before eating. Puddings, smoothies, and overnight oats are the safest way to prepare and eat chia seeds, because they give the seeds time to absorb liquid before they start making their way to your stomach.
If you want to try the trend safely, keep this prep checklist in mind:
If you want to try the trend safely, keep this prep checklist in mind:
The health risks associated with the wrong consumption can range from mild discomfort to medical emergencies requiring hospital treatment.
Here is the short science behind why dry chia can cause problems:
Here is the short science behind why dry chia can cause problems:
Here is the short science behind why dry chia can cause problems:
If you’ve consumed chia seeds the wrong way and experience difficulty swallowing, chest pain, or the sensation of food stuck in your throat after consuming chia seeds, seek immediate medical attention.
Symptoms could indicate a blockage that may require professional intervention. People with existing digestive conditions or swallowing difficulties have a higher risk and should consult healthcare providers before adding chia seeds to their diets.
Writer, Professional chef and Travel enthusiast. Culinary Institute of America (CIA) graduate. Chef Marsh has traveled the globe from France, Italy, Germany to China, Thailand, India, Tunisia and more.
