Whole chia seeds can sometimes get stuck in the intestinal lining, causing discomfort and bloating, although in theory they are cleansing the system and getting into every nook & cranny this also can be uncomfortable whilst it occurs.
Chia Seeds Can Lead to Stomach Problems
Chia seeds are extremely high in fiber, and too much fiber doesn't work with every body type. Those who consume too much fiber may experience side effects ranging from diarrhea, constipation, bloating and intestinal gas.
Seeds are a healthy snack food that helps care for your colon while also keeping you feeling fuller for a longer period of time. For example, one teaspoon of chia seeds is equal to 10 grams of fiber.
Summary. Chia seeds may have benefits for your digestive system and overall health. They may improve intestinal function, prevent absorption of harmful aspects of your diet, and might help treat constipation.
Chia seeds may provide several benefits as part of a healthy diet. There is no RDA for chia seeds. Still, they can be safely eaten in amounts of 50 grams daily, which is about five tablespoons.
The truth is – they can. Chia Seeds absorb 15-20 times their weight in water. When chia seeds move through the gut, they draw water from the intestine area, like a sponge. These seeds expand in your stomach, which leads to bloating.
FODMAP wise, chia seeds also get the green light. A 2 tablespoon serve of chia seeds is low in FODMAPs and should be tolerated by most people with IBS.
4. Allergies. "Chia seeds are in the mint family, so people with known allergies to mint, sesame, or mustard seeds should be cautious about trying chia seeds," Zellner says. "Food allergy symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, itching of the lips or tongue, or anaphylaxis."
Chia Seeds:
Traditionally, researchers believed that small particles like nuts and seeds may increase the likelihood of developing Diverticulitis by getting trapped in the pockets of the small intestine. Research has proven this theory wrong.
Soak the seeds in almond milk or water (1/4 cup seeds to 1 cup liquid) until they take on a chewy texture reminiscent of tapioca pudding, about 20 minutes. Soaked chia seeds can be refrigerated for up to 5 days, so you can make a big batch at the start of the week.
And because they create a gelatinous effect when added to water or digested they cleanse your insides by collecting toxins on their way out! This is why Chia Seeds are an amazing detox and weight loss food.
A common dosage recommendation is 0.7 ounces (20 grams or about 1.5 tablespoons) of chia seeds twice per day. Remember to drink plenty of water to prevent any digestive side effects. Chia seeds are easy to prepare and often used as an egg substitute and added to oatmeal or smoothies.
There are so many reasons why chia seeds are super healthy, and their fiber content is the main reason they're one of the best foods to help you poop. Chia seeds are packed with fiber, boasting an impressive 10 grams per ounce (which is about two tablespoons).
Chia seeds are a do-it-all, superfood multitasker. "Their high fiber content can help alleviate constipation, while omega-3's help fight inflammation in the body which can also keep bloating at bay," Moskovitz says.
Chia seeds serving size
If you can begin adding chia seeds to your diet, it's best to adhere to the recommended serving size. The serving size for adults is 15grams (2 tablespoons) daily. For children and teens ages 5 to 18 years the recommended amount is 1.4 to 4.3 grams daily.
Chia seeds can absorb up to 10X their weight in water, and so it is not recommended to eat a large quantity of them dry. Eating a tablespoon or more of chia seeds dry from a spoon can cause them to swell in your esophagus, which may cause a blockage.
Chia seeds are a great source of fibre. Consuming chia seeds with water in the morning helps in giving your digestive system a boost and improves bowel movement. Healthy digestion is a prerequisite to weight loss. The best time to eat chia seeds is when you wake up.
However, if you eat dry chia seeds, without giving them any liquid to absorb before ingesting them, they'll absorb the water within your system and potentially cause a blockage.
Can you eat chia seeds without soaking them first? Yes, as it won't hurt to eat them straight, but if you soak them, then you “sprout” them, which releases the enzyme inhibitors that are used to protect the seed.
Chia seeds do not need to be washed.
Since they contain a lot of insoluble fiber — the kind that helps bulk up your stool while still keeping it soft — chia seeds can help get things moving in your gut. Hence, the current trend of drinking chia seed water to help promote a bowel movement.
Stir the seeds into the yogurt. Add the honey and vanilla, if using. Cover tightly with plastic wrap, or mix it in a mason jar. Store in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
Just like overnight oats, keeping chia seeds soaked in water or milk overnight can be a good way to fully germinate them and get rid of any sort of digestive inhibitors (which act as a protective layer).