Courtesy of Danielle Sinay
Chia seeds vs flaxseeds in water
“Are chia seeds healthier than flaxseeds?” is a question you’ll see pop up a lot in wellness forums. The answer is a little more nuanced than a straightforward ‘yes’ or ‘no’ because both seeds are nutrient-dense but in different ways.
“Chia seeds have slightly higher amounts of protein, calcium and fibre than flaxseeds,” says nutritional therapist Zoe Hill. All of which is great for digestion, repairing tissue and creating strong bones and teeth. “But flaxseeds are higher in magnesium and anti-inflammatory omega-3s, so they may be more beneficial for lowering inflammation and supporting heart health, brain and eye function and skin conditions like eczema.”
Drinking both chia seeds or flaxseeds in water can help to promote regular bowel movements, Zoe adds. “However, flaxseeds are higher in insoluble fibre than chia seeds so are slightly better if you are constipated,” she says. “It should also be noted that, for better absorption, it’s best to grind flaxseeds as opposed to drinking them whole.”
Can I drink chia seeds in water every day?
Generally speaking, the answer is yes, says Zoe – “unless you are taking certain medications for diabetes or high blood pressure. Speak to your GP if you are taking any of these medications before drinking chia seeds in water daily.”
When is the best time to drink chia seeds in water?
“The best time to consume chia seeds depends on your goals,” says Dr. Tovar. “Having chia seeds in the morning, such as in water or added to breakfast foods, can help keep you full until lunch. Consuming chia seeds before a workout may also enhance hydration and provide a steady energy source.”
Best ratio of chia seeds to water
To make chia water, Alma suggests the following.
Mix 1 to 2 tablespoons of chia seeds with about 1 cup (8 oz) of water.Let the mixture sit for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the chia seeds to absorb the water and form a gel-like consistency.You can drink the mixture as is or add flavour with a squeeze of lemon, lime, or a splash of honey or other natural sweeteners.
Preparing chia seeds in water
Courtesy of Danielle Sinay
What to know before trying: potential side effects
“Fibre intake should be increased gradually for some individuals, as too much fibre too quickly can cause bloating, constipation, or diarrhoea until the body adjusts,” warns Dr. Chappell.
Alma and Jennifer echo this. “Suddenly increasing your intake of chia seeds can lead to some digestive discomfort or other side effects, particularly if you’re not used to consuming a high-fibre diet,” says Alma. Therefore, Jennifer recommends going slow: “Start with 1 tablespoon and gradually increase to 2 tablespoons to help reduce any possible bloating or stomach discomfort.”
This feature was originally published on GLAMOUR US.