Can you put chia seeds in water

In the video, they claim, "chia seeds expand in your stomach and form a thick gel Experts you know, people with credentials, not just TikTok creators weigh in. Chia seed water as it's shown on TikTok involves combining 1 tablespoon of chia seeds with a large glass of water, with the option of adding lime for flavor. This concoction of chia seed water is safe to drink, assures Alicia Shelly, M.

For a little history lesson, "in the Mayan language, 'chia' actually means 'strength,' which is due to the tiny seeds' ability to provide nourishment," explains Amy Shapiro, M. Chia seeds are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, she adds. The TikTok in question notes that chia seeds expand in the stomach and create a thick gel, increasing feelings of fullness.

The experts, however, have differing viewpoints. Shelly advises against drinking chia seed water if the seeds haven't properly soaked for a period of time — she suggested about 20 minutes, although the time frames put the soaking at two hours! However, Shapiro believes drinking chia seed water without waiting is actually okay for most people.

Since chia seeds can hold so much water, "they do expand in your stomach and help to keep you full and hydrated," she says. Although chia seed water isn't a typical drink on its own, Shapiro suggests adding chia seeds to foods such as oatmeal and yogurt, as this can help you feel satiated as well as balance blood sugar levels. While they might have mixed reviews regarding the timing of drinking chia seeds mixed with water, both Shapiro and Dr. Shelly agree that this TikTok drink does fulfill its promise of feeling fuller for longer.

Second, they are rich in protein, which helps with satiety and keeping you full because it is the macronutrient that is digested the slowest. We know that omega 3 fatty acids are essential for a healthy cardiovascular system, but scientists are still trying to figure out how they work— whether they lower cholesterol, lower the risk of strokes and heart attacks, or reduce blood pressure.

Better glucose control: One study on rats found that a diet regularly containing chia seeds or oil from the seeds improved their response to glucose and insulin, while another found a diet of chia seeds improved a number of metabolic factors in insulin-resistant rats. More research needs to be done on humans, but chia seeds seems to help balance blood sugar because their high fiber content slows the absorption of sugar. Smoother digestion: Yes, it all comes back to the F-word: fiber.

On top of that, Romano notes that the fiber in chia seeds is mainly soluble fiber , which helps you feel full and slows down digestion. How do you drink chia seeds with water? OatmealStories Getty Images. Kaitlyn Pirie Sr.

For more chia pudding ideas, we highly recommend watching this video by The Cooking Foodie on YouTube. Our favorite is the Lemon Blueberry flavor. You can give your smoothies a nutrient boost by adding in some chia seeds. Whip up some spinach leaves, peaches, apple juice, and some chia seeds. The peaches and apple juice give the smoothie some natural sweetness. You can freeze smoothie packs to use each morning, and then top in as many chia seeds as you want. Using your favorite muffin mix, you can add in some chopped almonds, dark chocolate, coarse sea salt, and chia seeds.

These ingredients together are absolutely delicious and are healthy as well! You can make some healthy waffles using whole wheat pastry flour. It adds whole grain goodness to recipes but still gives the same texture as white flour. You can add in some chia seeds to the waffle recipe and cook it as normal. This offers a good punch of nutrients and a classic breakfast that everyone loves! There is no clear limit to how many chia seeds you can eat in one day, but it is important to note that raw chia seeds can dehydrate you, so limit your intake of those.

If you are soaking the chia seeds, you should consume around 20 grams per serving, which is around 1. You can have two 20 gram servings per day. There is a possibility that you might face digestive issues if you are not used to a lot of fiber, as chia seeds do have a high fiber content. The best way to eat chia seeds would be to let them soak overnight , and then enjoy them as a pudding or add them to oatmeal or smoothies. By the chia seeds having the time to soak, you will benefit from the extra hydration, which will also help to keep you feeling full for longer.

As chia seeds contain a good amount of fiber, eating too many could cause digestive problems, such as bloating, gas, constipation, and abdominal pain. It is a good idea to limit the number of chia seeds you eat each day, especially if your body is not used to a high fiber content diet.

When it comes to soaking chia seeds, it is best to leave them to soak overnight, so they are able to absorb as much water as possible. This ability to absorb water is why chia seeds are so great for a diet, as they help you feel full for longer! Pour the measured water into a container that can be closed with a tight-fitting lid, such as a mason jar. Shake the container for at least 15 seconds and then let the chia seeds stand. Instead of water, you can also use almond milk, coconut milk, regular milk , or any other liquid that you'd prefer.

Just keep in mind that by using another liquid, you will essentially be making chia pudding. You can also make drinkable chia juice by using a ratio of chia seeds to juice. Hey, I'm Jaron and I'm a self-proclaimed food expert and author of this website! I'll be honest with you, I started this website because someone told me I couldn't and I needed to prove them wrong. Along my journey, I actually really fell in love with writing about food.

I hope you found value from whatever article you read, and if you have any remaining questions, don't hesitate to contact me! Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Foodsguy How To Storage. Please see my disclosure to learn more. Pin Jump to Recipe. Continue to Content. Instructions Use slightly warm water , as this helps the gel form faster. Pour in the right amount of chia seeds into the water. Once the chia seeds have rested for a minute, shake them for another 15 seconds.

Seal the container tightly and place it in the fridge for however long you need to. Notes Instead of water, you can also use almond milk, coconut milk, regular milk , or any other liquid that you'd prefer. Nutrition Information: Yield: 10 Serving Size: 1.