Do Chia Seeds Make You Poop? 2024 Evidence-Based Reviews

Natural remedies are the way forward in the pursuit of improved gut health. Chia seeds are the next big thing to restore balance to the digestive system.

Many may prefer ready-made protein drinks such as Orgain protein powder to enhance their gut health. Guess what? Chia seeds are one of the primary ingredients in this extract.

The best protein powder for a sensitive stomach includes a series of concoctions that all have these tiny seeds as the constant ingredient. This suggests how effective chia seeds are in helping to optimize your gut health.

So, do chia seeds make you poop? Read ahead to decide if including the internal shower drink will benefit your health.

What Is The “Internal Shower”?

The internal shower drink is a beverage from soaking chia seeds in a suitable liquid. It’s a refreshing drink that enhances hydration, stimulates bowel movement, and provides a sort of internal cleansing – hence the name: internal shower. 

As the soaked chia seeds absorb the liquid, they form a gel-like substance, providing numerous health benefits upon consumption.

Health Benefits Of Eating Chia Seeds

Including chia seeds in your diet is highly beneficial, as they contain several essential nutrients for optimum body health. Below are some of the enticing health benefits of chia seeds.

Rich In Antioxidants

The tiny chia seed contains potent antioxidants, including phenolic compounds and flavonoids. Antioxidants have been proven to have numerous beneficial effects on health and diseases.^[1]

You must include sources of antioxidants in your dietary plan. They help neutralize free radicals implicated in oxidative stress, inflammation, and other chronic diseases, helping you live longer.

Besides, they help preserve the fats in chia seeds, ensuring they don’t go putrid and remain beneficial.  In addition, antioxidants have been found to possess some anti-aging effects^[2] and boost the overall body’s defense and maintain optimal health.

Improves Gut Health

Besides its numerous nutrients, chia seeds are potent for managing metabolic disorders,^[3] including those related to the digestive system. They are rich in soluble fiber and complex gelatinous substances, stimulating better peristalsis and healthy digestion.

This improves bowel movement and treats constipation. In addition, the drink provides bulk to your stool, allowing you to poop well.

May Promote Weight Loss

Chia seeds’ high fiber and protein content will benefit individuals looking to regulate their body weight. A report from the Harvard School of Public Health indicates that animal studies show that chia seed is beneficial for weight management. 

Even when you eat raw chia seeds, they form a gel-like substance in the gut that reduces digestion and promotes satiety without bloating. 

This will reduce your urge to consume as much food as you would typically eat, assisting in weight management.

Reduced Risk Of Heart-Related Diseases

Chia seeds are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are highly beneficial to the heart. They help reduce the risk of heart disease, optimize brain cells, and reduce the risk of stroke, cancer, and other conditions.

The high fiber content of chia seeds also increases their potential for reducing your blood cholesterol levels, especially low-density lipoproteins, or LDL (bad cholesterol). 

A study^[4] in adults with type 2 diabetes suggests that adding chia seeds to their diet may benefit high blood pressure concerns. This health benefit and its propensity to stimulate weight loss also improve heart health and the overall cardiovascular system.

Enhance Bone Health

The chemical composition and nutritional values^[5] of chia seeds indicate they are a good source of macro and micronutrients. They contain a significant amount of phosphorus, calcium, potassium, etc., vital for bone health.

Also, research^[6] suggests that the seeds have significant anti-inflammatory potential that may benefit people with arthritis. Therefore, consuming the internal shower drink may help improve bone strength and overall condition.

How To Soak Chia Seeds For The Internal Shower Drink

You may eat dry chia seeds or use them as a starter for smoothies. You may also incorporate chia seeds into yogurt or other drinks. 

However, dissolving them to form the internal shower drink is also ideal. It improves the texture and makes them more attractive. The recipe is straightforward. Below is a stepwise guide on how to prepare the internal shower drink.

Ingredients: 

• Chia seeds (usually one or two tablespoons for a glass of liquid).
• Container to soak seeds, such as a cup or bowl.
• Water (or other liquids for enhanced taste, such as coconut water, fruit juice, or herbal tea).
• (Optional) Additives, flavorings, or sweeteners like honey, table salt, lemon juice or zest, maple syrup, etc.

Steps:

• Fill your container with your desired liquid.
• Measure the chia seeds you intend to soak. Use your tablespoon to adjust to your preference and desired drink consistency. Then, add the other liquids – coconut water, lemon juice, or herbal tea for more flavor. 
• Mix well. Ensure to stir the seeds, submerging them in the liquid for optimum soaking. 
• After vigorously stirring, let the mixture sit for 10 to 15 minutes until a gel-like consistency. Continue to occasionally stir to prevent seed clumping.
• Now, add the optional additives. Use one of honey, salt, monk fruit, lemon juice, or maple syrup to further enhance the taste of the internal shower drink. 
• Again, stir the mixture to allow a more consistent drink, ensuring the additives’ incorporation and even distribution. 
• Afterward, your internal shower drink is ready for consumption. However, refrigerating the drink to chill gives a more refreshing experience.

Even as you enjoy the internal shower drink, you can always try different flavors on each preparation until you find the one that appeals best to your palate. Also, you may use the internal shower as a starter for smoothies or oats.

Is It Safe To Eat Chia Seeds Daily?

Yes, eating chia seeds daily is safe. As discussed earlier, the seeds are highly nutritious. According to the USDA,^[7] 100 grams of chia seeds contain 27.3 grams of healthy dietary fiber, including other beneficial nutrients.

In addition, they contain healthy fats, which are highly beneficial to overall health, especially for overweight people. Therefore, supplementing these seeds into your dietary routine may improve your daily nutritional intake.

However, to maximize the potential benefits of these seeds, we advise that you should consume chia seeds in moderation. Like all food items, excessive consumption may result in chia seed side effects, such as frequent bowel movements or more severe conditions.

What’s more? We recommend you consult a registered dietitian before adding chia seeds to your diet plan. This is important, especially if you have special dietary needs.

Conclusion

The high fiber content makes it beneficial for improving digestive health, ensuring the easy release of poop. 

Daily consumption of these seeds can help minimize your time in the restroom. Also, you do not release foul-smelling gas and have almost zero digestive discomforts throughout the day. 

Also, remember that you can spice up your chia seed drink with more exciting flavors and refrigerate it for optimum refreshment. Cheers to your optimized gut health!

---