- 6 September 2023
Your Guide to Choosing and Purchasing the Best Quality of Chia Seed
The trend of “internal shower drink” has gone viral on all social media platforms. The drink mixed 2 tablespoons of chia seeds into a glass of water and added lemon juice. After letting it sit for a few minutes, the seeds absorb water and expand. Then, drink it on an empty stomach.
It is named ‘internal shower drink’ because they believe the drink has the potential to detox the gut and treat constipation. We know chia seeds can be good for our health, but does the drink live up to the hype?
How does chis seed work?
Chia seeds can absorb 12 – 15 times their weight in water. This forms a gel-consistency in the drink. The gel drink adds fibrous bulk and weight to the stool, making bowel movements easier. Therefore, it doesn’t have the same effect as detoxing our gut, but it helps relieve constipation since chia seeds are rich in fiber. One tablespoon of chia seeds (approximately 15g) contains about 70 calories, 2g of protein, and 5g of fiber. They are also an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, packed with antioxidants, and provide iron and calcium!
If I am constipated, can I eat a lot of chia seeds?
If you have never been exposed to chia seeds, slowly add them to your diet, adding half to one teaspoon at a time. Don’t expect miracles to happen overnight. You can gradually increase your intake of foods like oatmeal, yogurt, juices, or smoothies. Having too much chia seed at once adds additional fiber abruptly to your diet, and can actually cause severe constipation, especially if you’re not drinking extra water. Excessive fiber can also interfere with nutrient absorption, which may result in inadequate calcium, magnesium, iron, and zinc. It will lead to bloating, gas, or diarrhea in some individuals. It’s better to add it slowly to your diet to obtain the maximum benefits.
Is everyone suitable for chia seed drinks?
People with chronic gastrointestinal conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn’s disease, or ulcerative colitis, are not suitable to drink the chia seed drinks. This is because overtaking fiber increases intestinal motility and can be harmful for them.
Moreover, those with diverticulitis or difficulty swallowing should also be vigilant when consuming chia seed drinks. This is due to the fact that:
- Diverticulitis is a condition characterized by inflamed or infected pouches (diverticula) in the colon. Consuming chia seeds, which can absorb more water and form a gel-like substance, may increase the risk of getting the seeds lodged in the diverticula. This can lead to irritation, inflammation, and potentially worsen the symptoms of diverticulitis.
- For people with difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), this texture can pose a choking hazard. The thickened consistency of chia seed drinks may be difficult to swallow safely for them, especially those with underlying swallowing difficulties. It is important to consider the individual’s ability to manage different food consistencies and consult with a healthcare professional if there are concerns.
Health Benefits of Chia Seeds?
Chia seeds are small but incredibly rich in nutrients. They are packed with essential nutrients, including fiber, protein, healthy fats (omega-3 fatty acids), antioxidants, vitamins (vitamin B complex and vitamin E), and minerals (calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium).
Furthermore, chia seeds are good for bone health. It contains calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. These nutrients could be associated with increased bone mineral density with enough volume.
A supplement is neither a miracle pill nor a medication. It does not provide instant results upon consumption. It is just a health supplement, similar to other dietary supplements. We need to combine it with a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle habits to enhance our overall health. Adding chia seeds to our diet can be a beneficial addition to support our well-being.
How to choose chia seeds in the market and online?
1. Organic vs Non-Organic
There is no such thing as good or bad. The decision to buy organic or non-organic chia seeds is influenced by personal preferences, dietary needs, and environmental concerns. If you want to avoid pesticides and genetically modified organisms (GMOs), you may want to go for organic chia seeds. However, keep in mind that they can be more expensive than non-organic ones.
2. Quality and Purity
High-quality chia seeds should not contain other seeds or debris. Some lower-quality brands might contain stems, leaves, or other unwanted parts. Look for high-quality chia seeds from reputable brands or trusted sources. Check for certifications or labels that indicate the seeds have undergone testing for purity and quality standards. Here are a few examples: Nutiva, Bob’s Red Mill, Navitas Organics, and others.
3. Price
The cost of chia seeds varies greatly depending on the brand and where they are purchased. It is good to compare prices before making a decision. Consider brands or suppliers with positive reviews and a good reputation for providing high-quality chia seeds. Reading customer reviews can help gauge the quality and reliability of the product.
4. Packaging
Chia seeds should be packaged in airtight containers or resealable bags to maintain freshness and prevent moisture absorption. Ensure the packaging is intact and properly sealed.
A Trendy Superfood with a Hidden Risk
A case report presented by a North Carolina GI doctor describes a scary case of chia seeds gone bad: a 39-year-old man spent several hours in the emergency room under anesthesia after eating no more than a tablespoon of dry chia seeds followed by a glass of water.
The seeds expanded in his esophagus, causing pain and difficulty swallowing. The case report was presented by a gastroenterology fellow at an annual medical meeting. The doctor recommends caution when consuming chia seeds and advises letting them fully expand in liquid before ingestion, especially for people with underlying esophageal issues.
Nobody should be eating these seeds dry. Let them expand fully in some kind of liquid first — especially for people who have this sensation of food getting stuck. Chia seeds are tiny, so people would not necessarily think there are problems, but some people do have underlying “structures” or narrowing of the esophagus.
Chia seeds are indeed packed with various health benefits, making them a popular choice among health-conscious individuals. These tiny seeds are rich in fiber, protein, heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, and other essential nutrients. Their versatility allows for easy incorporation into a wide range of dishes, such as smoothies, yogurt parfaits, and energy bars. However, as with any food, it’s essential to use chia seeds wisely and follow proper consumption practices to avoid potential risks.
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