What happens if you eat too much chia seeds? (2024)

FAQs

What happens if you eat too much chia seeds? ›

You May Experience Digestive Issues

Because of their high fiber content, eating too many chia seeds may cause constipation, diarrhea, bloating, and gas. Chia seeds may also cause flare-ups with inflammatory bowel conditions such as Crohn's disease. Choking hazard. Dry chia seeds absorb water, which causes them to swell up and become gelatinous.

One case study discussed a 39-year-old man who had a dangerous incident with chia seeds when he ate a tablespoon of dry seeds and then drank a glass of water. The seeds expanded in his esophagus and caused a blockage, and he had to visit the emergency room to have it removed (14).

The bottom line

Chia seeds are very rich in fiber, antioxidants, minerals, and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. They have been linked to improvement in risk factors for heart disease and diabetes, as well as benefits for digestion and gut health. Chia seeds are very easy to incorporate into a healthy diet.

You may also feel more bloated.

"In order for the chia seed to move through the gut, it draws water from the intestine area, working like a sponge," says Lockwood. "They also expand in your stomach, so both of those things can cause a lot of bloating."

There is no RDA for chia seeds. Still, they can be safely eaten in amounts of 50 grams daily, which is about five tablespoons. Two tablespoons provide all of the nutritional benefits listed above.

Yes, excessive intake of chia seeds can lead to digestive issues like constipation, diarrhea, bloating and stomach ache. Over a period of time excessive intake of fiber can worsen gut health. Thus, it is advised to take around 1 ½ tablespoon twice a day or around 20-25 grams along with an ample intake of water.

Chia seed downsides

It can also cause gas, bloating, gas or diarrhea in some people." People with chronic conditions like gastrointestinal disease (including inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn's or ulcerative colitis) should avoid chia seed drinks.

Omega-3 fatty acids: Chia seeds contain a high amount of omega-3 fatty acids. It is known that high levels of omega-3 fatty acids may increase the risk of bleeding. Therefore, it is advised to avoid taking chia seeds with foods or supplements rich in omega-3 fatty acids.

Because flax seeds and chia seeds are low in sodium, potassium, and phosphorus, they are healthy for all the following kidney conditions and treatments: CKD/Transplant. Hemodialysis (3 times/week) Daily Home and Nocturnal Hemodialysis/Peritoneal Dialysis.

Do chia seeds clean your insides? ›

As chia seeds become a sticky gel-like substance when soaked in water, they can also serve as a digestive system cleanser.

Additionally, because chia seeds are so high in fiber, Collingwood urges consuming enough water or other liquid to wash them down. This will help promote digestion and prevent constipation, gas, and other digestive issues associated with consuming too much fiber without water.

These tiny seeds can provide fiber that helps lower cholesterol, boost your heart health and reduce your risk of developing chronic disease. That said, because chia seeds are packed with fiber and are calorie dense, stick with no more than 2 tablespoons per day.

When chia seeds come in contact with liquid, they expand and form a gel. This makes them easier to digest. Chia seeds do not need to be soaked for a long time. In just five minutes, they have absorbed liquid, but we prefer to soak them for 20 minutes to achieve a pudding-like texture.

Benefits of chia seeds for kidney patients

Chia seeds are a rich source of fibre, which is an essential nutrient for the kidneys. Consuming a sufficient amount of fibre helps with decreasing blood urea nitrogen and creatinine levels, which is important for preventing the complications of chronic kidney disease.

How long does chia seeds take to lose weight? If it is a part of your diet plan, it would take approximately 2-3 months to get the visible result.

These tiny seeds can provide fiber that helps lower cholesterol, boost your heart health and reduce your risk of developing chronic disease. That said, because chia seeds are packed with fiber and are calorie dense, stick with no more than 2 tablespoons per day.

The health benefits of chia

A 2-tablespoon serving (which is a TON of seeds) has 150 calories, 10g of fiber, 6g of protein and 10g of fat, most of which is the healthy polyunsaturated variety. In terms of how much chia to eat each day, it's smart to stick to the 2-tablespoon serving size.

Chia seeds have impressive benefits and are a very versatile ingredients. Do not exceed 1-2 tablespoons per day and always hydrate them in water or milk before use. Remember chia alone cannot cause weight loss. It has to be part of a well-balanced diet and effective exercise routine.