Popular chia seeds trend takes over TikTok, claims to give body ‘internal shower’ in morning, but New York expert claims one mistake can make it backfire; all you need to know

All those who are heavily concerned about their health and diet are well aware of chia seeds and their key benefits. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), chia seeds are the consumable seeds of Salvia hispanica. It basically belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae). Chia seeds are egg-shaped and gray with black and white stains, bearing a width of about 2 millimeters (0.08 inches).

A new way of eating chia seeds has gained popularity over the internet and ignited a trend on TikTok. Those who love the tiny, crunchy seeds, which expand in liquid overnight, have perhaps found the easiest hack of all to consume the superfood.

Chia seeds are considered a nutritional powerhouse that provides omega-3s, protein, fiber, antioxidants, minerals, and even sustainable energy, Fox News reported, citing experts. According to the viral TikTok trend, people are claiming that Chia seeds should be mixed with water and allowed to soak for about 20 minutes until they get their gel-like coating and drink them.


Many chia devotees claim that if the hack is followed, it gives the body an "internal shower" in the morning. Some even went on to claim that the high-fiber drink cures their constipation.

What do health experts say?

Daryl Gioffre, a gut health specialist and celebrity nutritionist in New York who was reportedly behind the internal shower trend on TikTok, said those who are suffering from constipation are mainly because they're not getting enough fiber. "Just a handful of chia seeds in your daily diet – 2 tablespoons in 6 ounces of water, with a slice of lemon – can improve the function of your digestive system," Gioffre told Fox News Digital.

"This is important because your gut is called your 'second brain,' as 80% of your nervous system and immune system live there."

The mighty seeds are also packed with magnesium, which supports the brain and nervous system health; essential electrolytes like potassium, calcium, and phosphorus; and omega-3 fatty acids that help lower inflammation, optimize brain function, and can even help with depression and mood swings, Gioffre said.

Alyssa Simpson, a registered dietitian and certified gastrointestinal nutritionist in Arizona, stated that she recommends chia seed water to her clients who are not able to tolerate high-fiber foods like beans or cruciferous vegetables. The chia seed water is lighter and easier to get down.

Speaking to Fox News Digital, Simpson said, "As delicious as chia pudding can be, it is pretty rich and filling, and when your stomach's already feeling off, the last thing you want is a whole bowl of something like that."

Simpson asks people to avoid this mistake with chia seeds

It is highly recommended to let the seeds soak for ideally 20 minutes. "It's a great entry point for people just learning to add fiber slowly." "If you gulp it down without letting the seeds soak long enough, you might end up bloated, gassy, or feeling backed up," Simpson said, as quoted by Fox News.

That's because chia seeds soak up whatever liquid they're added to—and if they aren't "hydrated" when you drink them, they'll soak up water in your gut instead. That can cause the opposite of the desired effect and even slow things down in the gut.

"It would be like dumping oatmeal down a drain with no water running – it's just going to clog things up," she added. "Fiber needs fluid to help it move through your system; otherwise, it will just sit there like sludge."

Disclaimer: The article is for general information or educational purposes only, and is not a medical advice. Please consult your doctor as this is not a substitute for professional help.