Chia seeds are known for their various health benefits.

When mixed with water, the chia seeds form a gel-like mixture.

alpaksoy / Getty Images

What’s in Chia Seed Water?

Chia seed water with mint leaves and lemon

alpaksoy / Getty Images

Chia seed water is a simple drink made by soaking chia seeds in water.

They absorb 10 times their weight in water, causing the water to become gel-like.

When combined with the chia seeds, the water becomes a healthful, nutrient-dense drink.

Chia seeds are high in nutrients and have many health-promoting properties.

They also offer antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and immunostimulatory (immune system) effects.

Digestive Health

A diet high in fiber can preventconstipationand keep yourdigestive tracthealthy.

The proposed benefit is that the water mixture can reduce overeating by promoting a feeling of fullness.

They also reported higher scores for satiety (a satisfied feeling of fullness).

On the days study participants had the yogurt with chia seeds, they consumed smaller lunches.

Research shows that consuming chia seeds can reduce fracture risk and support bone mineralization.

Unfortunately, much of the research on chia seeds and bone health is related to animal models.

It is unknown if similar health benefits could benefit people.

This effect also prevents fat from accumulating in the body.

Chia seeds might also help in the management oftype 2 diabetesand weight.

In this study, participants who consumed chia seeds lost more weight than those who did not.

They also had greater reductions in waist circumference and less inflammation.

Allow the drink to sit for about 15 to 20 minutes to form a soft gelatin.

you’re able to store the chia drink mixture in your refrigerator for up to a week.

Other Ways to Enjoy Chia Seeds

It is easy toincorporate chia seeds into your diet.

Sprinkle 1 or 2 tablespoons into your favorite yogurt or cereal.

Or add the seeds to smoothies, soups, or pancake and waffle mixes, and enjoy.

Another popular way to add chia seeds to your diet is to make chia seed pudding.

Place the ingredients in a container with a lid.

wrap up the container tightly and shake well.

Wait 10 minutes and shake again until there are no clumps.

Refrigerate for 15 minutes or longer and enjoy.

However, chia seeds are healthy for most people to consume.

Adding too much can lead to bloating, gas, and constipation.

Drinking plenty of water when adding chia seeds to your diet is also essential.

You may become constipated if you eat a lot of fiber and do not consume enough water.

Ensure you are eating various minimally processed and nutrient-dense foods to sustain your weight loss efforts.

Summary

Chia seed water is made by soaking chia seeds in water to create a gel-like beverage.

Chia seed water may also lower hunger and support weight loss goals.

More research is needed to confirm many of these purported effects.

you could even use chia seeds to make a simple, delicious chia pudding.

Chia seed water is high in fiber, and too much of it could lead to digestive troubles.

Staying hydrated can reduce stomach issues.

Do not replace other nutritious foods with chia seed water.

Instead, aim to consume a variety of minimally processed, nutrient-rich foods.

U.S. Department of Agriculture.Seeds, chia seeds, dried.

2019;11(6):1242. doi:10.3390/nu11061242

UCSF Health.Increasing fiber intake.

Khalid W, Arshad MS, Aziz A, et al.Chia seeds (Salvia hispanicaL.

): a therapeutic weapon in metabolic disorders.Food Sci Nutr.

2022;11(1):3-16. doi:10.1002/fsn3.3035

John Hopkins Medicine.Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Motyka S, Skaa E, Ekiert H, Szopa A.Health-promoting approaches of the use of chia seeds.J.

Foods.2023;103:105480. doi:10.1016/j.jff.2023.105480

Harvard Health.Chia seed benefits: What you’re gonna wanna know.

Gutierrez S, Svahn SL, Johansson ME.Effects of omega-3 fatty acids on immune cells.Int J Mol Sci.

2014;5(6):863S-76S.

2019;10(6):3068-3089. doi:10.1039/c9fo00239a

Harvard T.H.

Chen School of Public Health.Chia seeds.

Houston Methodist.Chia seed water: Is it good for you?

American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology.Chia seed allergy and cross reactivity.

2024;55(1):50-58. doi:10.1161/STROKEAHA.123.044281