TikTok chia seed trend raises concerns, doctor warns
Chia seeds should be consumed properly (photo: magnific)
Losing weight with chia seed gel has become the latest viral trend on social media.
Dr. Carmen Fong reports on the serious consequences of consuming this popular superfood every day.
Why chia seeds can sometimes be harmful
Chia seeds are considered a highly beneficial addition to the diet. However, the popular habit of drinking a full glass of thick chia gel every morning may do more harm than good.
Carmen Fong, a surgeon specializing in gastrointestinal health, has issued an urgent warning. According to her, patients who have adopted this trend are increasingly reporting severe constipation, bloating, and intense irritation in the anal area.
The main issue lies in the composition of the seeds. They contain mostly insoluble fiber, which rapidly increases stool bulk.
When consumed in large amounts, it passes through the digestive tract and can "scratch" the intestinal lining, causing pain and inflammation.
At the same time, the expert does not advise completely avoiding the superfood, but recommends following guidelines. The ideal ratio is just one tablespoon of seeds per glass of water. The mixture must be soaked for 15–20 minutes so the seeds form a gel.
After drinking it, you should immediately drink another glass of clean water. The doctor advises consuming such drinks no more than once every few days, as moderation plays a key role in gut health.
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