Can Drinking Chia Seed Water Help You Lose Weight?
Chia seeds have been around for quite some time, but in recent years they have been hailed and hailed as a “superfood”. You can enjoy them in chia seed pudding, overnight oats, fresh fruit smoothies, yogurt parfaits, granola bars, and savory items like bread and crackers. One of the more current trends making waves on TikTok is chia seed water, which people are incorporating into their weight loss regimens.
Is it all hype, or can drinking chia seed water help speed up your weight loss efforts? We spoke to an expert who breaks it all down for us.
Can Drinking Chia Seed Water Help You Lose Weight?
What makes chia seeds so special? According to Andrea Soares, MS, RDN, CSSDa registered dietitian specializing in sports nutrition, weight management, diabetes and wellness Top nutrition advice“Chia seeds are small but mighty!”
Chia seeds are packed with protein, fiber, omega-3 fatty acidsmagnesium and calcium. “When you add chia seeds to water, they swell up and form a gel-like consistency. This makes chia seed water a unique, nutritious drink that is low in calories but high in benefits,” explains Soares. “One of the reasons chia seed water is getting attention is because of its high fiber content. Just one ounce of chia seeds has about 10 grams of fiber. This fiber absorbs water, expands in the stomach and makes you feel fuller for longer.”
This can be extremely beneficial if you are aiming to cut back on snacking and reduce the number of calories consumed.
“Another cool thing about chia seeds is that they can help regulate your blood sugar levels“, says Soares. “By slowing the absorption of carbohydrates, chia seeds can prevent spikes in your blood sugar. This is crucial because stable blood sugar levels mean fewer insulin spikes, which can help reduce fat storage in your body.”
Can Drinking Chia Seed Water Help You Lose Weight?
TikTok user Jasmine (@jaydfitness_) posted a concoction called “the inner shower”, which is simply a cup of water, two tablespoons of black chia seeds and the juice of one lemon. Another TikToker @jay.cafe11 revealed in a clip drinking this drink helped them lose 40 pounds and maintain their weight loss, along with the help of a calorie deficit.
While chia seed water isn’t a magic elixir that can help you lose weight on its own, it’s certainly a great addition to a well-rounded diet. “Its high fiber content, ability to help regulate blood sugar, and potential to increase metabolism make it a valuable tool in your weight loss journey,” says Soares. “Just remember that no one food or drink will do the trick alone – combine chia seed water with a healthy diet and regular exercise for best results.”
Alexa Mellardo
Alexa is the Mind + Body Deputy Editor of Eat This, Not That!, overseeing the M+B channel and delivering compelling fitness, wellness and self-care topics to readers. Read more about Alexa