Can I use flaxseed and chia seeds together?
Could you eat chia seeds and flaxseeds together? You can eat chia and flax together, as they both provide a wide array of nutrients including fiber, plant protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Adding flaxseeds to chia adds the benefits of lignans, which chia seeds do not have.
Both flax and chia seeds are incredibly versatile and very easy to add to your diet. Both taste relatively bland, so you can add them to almost anything. You can sprinkle them on top of yogurts or incorporate them into smoothies, oatmeal, or baked goods.
These nutritious foods are a great source of plant-based protein, fiber, healthy fatty acids and a variety of minerals. They contain omega-3 fatty acids called alpha linolenic acid, which helps improve brain function and boosts the immune system.
The typical serving of each is the same—about 25 grams or 2 tablespoons, two times a day. Ground chia seeds or ground flaxseeds are commonly sprinkled over oatmeal or pudding, blended into shakes and smoothies, or mixed into other dishes.
Soaking both chia seeds and flax seeds before you eat them will “sprout” them, which makes them easier to digest and increases the amount of nutrients your body will be able to absorb. To soak the seeds, simply let them sit in warm water for about 30 minutes.
The truth is – they can. Chia Seeds absorb 15-20 times their weight in water. When chia seeds move through the gut, they draw water from the intestine area, like a sponge. These seeds expand in your stomach, which leads to bloating.
You can consume flax seeds both in the morning and at night. However, some of their benefits might be more effective at different times. For example, consuming them in the morning is a good idea since it's high in fibre and protein. It will also boost your metabolism quite well that way.
Chia seed weight loss drink: Take one 1 tsp of chia seeds in one glass of water and keep it aside for 45 to 60 minutes. After one hour, squeeze one full lemon juice and 1 tsp of honey in it and mix well. Consume it every morning on empty stomach and see how your waist circumference comes down.
Studies have shown that chia seeds consumption reduces visceral adipose tissues, also known as belly fat.
Chia seeds are highly nutritious, boast a long list of health benefits and can be a healthy dietary addition for most. However, moderation is key, as eating too many may cause side effects. To prevent this, start with 1 ounce (28 grams) daily and assess your tolerance before slowly increasing your intake.
What happens if you drink chia seeds everyday?
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. Potential Choking Hazard. Dry chia seeds absorb water, which causes them to swell up and become gelatinous.
While there are no specific recommendations for flaxseed intake, 1-2 tablespoons a day is considered a healthy amount. One tablespoon of ground flaxseed contains 37 calories, 2 grams of polyunsaturated fat (includes the omega-3 fatty acids), 0.5 gram of monounsaturated fat and 2 grams of dietary fiber.

A common dosage recommendation is 0.7 ounces (20 grams or about 1.5 tablespoons) of chia seeds twice per day. Remember to drink plenty of water to prevent any digestive side effects. Chia seeds are easy to prepare and often used as an egg substitute and added to oatmeal or smoothies.
Chia seeds serving size
If you can begin adding chia seeds to your diet, it's best to adhere to the recommended serving size. The serving size for adults is 15grams (2 tablespoons) daily. For children and teens ages 5 to 18 years the recommended amount is 1.4 to 4.3 grams daily.
Chia seeds as part of a healthy diet
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. Soaked chia seeds have a gel-like texture.
Chia seeds do not need to be washed.
Functional food-flaxseed and its derivatives (flaxseed oil or lignans) are beneficial for human health, possibly because of their anti-inflammatory effects.
However, if you eat dry chia seeds, without giving them any liquid to absorb before ingesting them, they'll absorb the water within your system and potentially cause a blockage.
This type of fiber adds bulk to your stool and may speed up the passage of food through your gut ( 41 ). Found in both chia and flax seeds, insoluble fiber acts as a laxative, reducing constipation ( 42 ).
Medicines: Avoid taking chia seeds if you are taking medications like anticoagulants and antiplatelets (prevent blood clots), anti-hypertensive (treats high blood pressure), anti-cancer, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids, as chia seeds might interact with these medicines.
Can chia seeds cause gut issues?
Chia Seeds Can Lead to Stomach Problems
Chia seeds are extremely high in fiber, and too much fiber doesn't work with every body type. Those who consume too much fiber may experience side effects ranging from diarrhea, constipation, bloating and intestinal gas.
Flaxseed is commonly used to improve digestive health or relieve constipation. Flaxseed may also help lower total blood cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL, or "bad") cholesterol levels, which may help reduce the risk of heart disease.
There is research showing that flaxseed is an effective laxative. 8 You'll probably see the results and loosening of stool within 12 to 24 hours after taking flaxseed. Be sure to drink water throughout the day to help relieve the constipation.
Flax seeds are not only a must for anyone looking to get a flat belly, but they are also ideal for anyone who suffers from frequent bloating. With high levels of fibre, the seeds will keep your digestive system in good health and help reduce and remove any bloated feelings.
For example, a small Brazilian study published in 2015 in Nutricion Hospitalaria involving 26 men and women who were overweight or had obesity found that eating 35 grams (about 3 tbsp) of chia seeds daily for 12 weeks resulted in weight loss. That said, the study was small and short term.
01/7Chia seeds is one of the best superfoods to lose weight
From boosting digestive health, metabolic rate, high iron, Omega-3 content and good fats, chia seeds make for an excellent addition to your diet. Most of all, the tiny white and black seeds are great for you to lose weight and reduce belly fat.
You can mix chia seeds in water, salads, smoothie, pudding, milk, pancake mix, and a bowl of oatmeal. Drinking a glass of chia seed water daily, preferably in the morning, can be a healthy supplement to your weight loss diet.
Soak the seeds in almond milk or water (1/4 cup seeds to 1 cup liquid) until they take on a chewy texture reminiscent of tapioca pudding, about 20 minutes. Soaked chia seeds can be refrigerated for up to 5 days, so you can make a big batch at the start of the week.
Consuming chia seeds can help speed up your metabolism as it is high in vitamin B. Other than that, their high content of omega-6 helps the body absorb fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. Chia seeds are also capable of burning belly fat since they reduce visceral adipose tissue, which is the component of obesity.
And because they create a gelatinous effect when added to water or digested they cleanse your insides by collecting toxins on their way out! This is why Chia Seeds are an amazing detox and weight loss food.
What is the best time to eat chia seeds?
Consuming chia seeds with water in the morning helps in giving your digestive system a boost and improves bowel movement. Healthy digestion is a prerequisite to weight loss. The best time to eat chia seeds is when you wake up. Consumption of chia seeds aids in a feeling of fullness and thus a reduced calorie intake.
Chia seeds are rich in I-lysine protein and phosphorus amongst other vitamins and minerals. These are known to fortify hair fibres and provide strength to the roots and follicles so that breakage is minimised. The presence of copper in chia also adds to the strengthening benefits of chia seeds for hair.
Recipes like chia pudding are best when chia sits in liquid for a few hours, or even overnight. If you want your chia seeds to have that gel-like consistency, they need to sit for a minimum of 20 minutes to absorb the liquid. Be patient!
The rule of thumb is: 15 grams of chia seeds per day are fine and healthy. It should not be more than this, otherwise the unpleasant side effects of chia seeds can occur. With this balanced amount of chia seeds, the gastrointestinal tract is not overburdened, but supported.
Do chia seeds make you gain weight? No, chia seeds alone are unlikely to make you gain weight. Nutritionist Ellie explains that whilst they have a high fat content they're not something to avoid if wanting to lose weight. And weight gain is unlikely "if you eat them in the right portion sizes."
To relieve constipation, though, you'll need to consume 1 to 4 tablespoons of ground flaxseed per day. Flaxseed oil and whole seeds might not be as effective. You can stir flaxseed into oatmeal, soup, or cereal for added fiber. Or, add ground flaxseed to yogurt or smoothies.
A. Yes! since flaxseeds contain omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin B and Vitamin C, they have the power to reduce hair fall, increase hair growth making hair stronger.
“Flax seeds are especially beneficial for women. They are known to help women's fertility by boosting the chances of conception. These seeds also support normal ovulation and restoration of hormonal balance. These are good for post-menopausal women as it protects them from cardiovascular issues,” shares Kaul.
Makes You Look Younger
Who doesn't want a youthful glow on their face? Chia seeds are loaded with antioxidants that prevent the appearance of aging signs and make you look young.
Omega -3 fatty acid present in chia seeds slows down bacterial growth and calms your skin from any inflammatory response giving you glowing and soothing skin, again making chia seeds for skin a perfectly fit addition in a healthy diet for skin benefits.
Does chia seeds contain collagen?
The antioxidants present in chia seeds help in neutralising the free radicals that damage the skin cells. Aside from this, antioxidants boost the production of collagen in your body. Collagen helps in maintaining the elasticity of your skin and also prevents it from sagging.
The easy fix to prevent bloating
Just soak them beforehand. That way, they've already expanded before they enter your digestive track. "My trick is to put them in water for five to ten minutes before eating," the registered dietitian says, adding that the ratio of chia seeds to water should be one-to-nine.
All you have to do is gently mix 1–2 tablespoons (12–24 grams) of chia seeds into 1 cup (237 mL) of water. Once you give the seeds a light stir, let them sit for up to 2 minutes.
A creamy and delicious Banana Smoothie loaded with almond butter, dates, chia seeds and flax meal. This is a great way to power up in the morning!
- Anticoagulant and anti-platelet drugs, herbs and supplements. These types of drugs, herbs and supplements reduce blood clotting. ...
- Blood pressure drugs, herbs and supplements. Flaxseed oil might lower blood pressure. ...
- Diabetes drugs. ...
- Estrogens. ...
- Oral drugs.
Eating Too Many Chia Seeds Can Cause Digestive Issues
Excessive fiber intake can cause problems like abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, bloating and gas ( 9 ).
"Chia seeds are slightly higher in protein with about 1.7 grams of protein per tablespoon, while flax seeds contain about 1.3 grams per tablespoon," English says. The former are also a better source of iron, with about 1.6 mg per tablespoon.
Digestive issues
Chia seeds contain plenty of nutrients. However, according to a 2020 study , their tough exterior may make it difficult for the body to break down, release, and digest them. However, this fact is true of most seeds.
One of the simplest ways to include chia seeds in your diet is to add them to water. To make chia water, soak 1/4 cup (40 grams) of chia seeds in 4 cups (1 liter) of water for 20–30 minutes.
While there are no specific recommendations for flaxseed intake, 1-2 tablespoons a day is considered a healthy amount. One tablespoon of ground flaxseed contains 37 calories, 2 grams of polyunsaturated fat (includes the omega-3 fatty acids), 0.5 gram of monounsaturated fat and 2 grams of dietary fiber.
Is it better to take flaxseed in the morning or at night?
You can consume flax seeds both in the morning and at night. However, some of their benefits might be more effective at different times. For example, consuming them in the morning is a good idea since it's high in fibre and protein. It will also boost your metabolism quite well that way.
“But consuming too much ground flaxseed may cause gastrointestinal distress including bloating, gas, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, and nausea. There have also been reports of intestinal blockage.
Use caution when taking flaxseed or flaxseed oil with other supplements. Risks. Never eat raw or unripe flaxseed -- it could be poisonous. People who have diabetes, bipolar disorder, high triglycerides, bleeding disorders, or prostate cancer should talk to a doctor before using flaxseed or flaxseed oil.
So yes, chia seeds have the right kind of fiber to loosen your poop and give you some constipation relief. “Chia seeds haven't been studied for constipation,” Czerwony notes, “but due to their fiber content, they are hypothesized to have a laxative effect.”
- Load up on foods with fibre. ...
- Or, take a fibre supplement. ...
- Drink some coffee — preferably *hot.* ...
- Get a little exercise in. ...
- Try massaging your perineum — no, really. ...
- Try an over-the-counter laxative. ...
- Or try a prescription laxative if things get really bad.
It is important to soak your chia seeds and activate the mucilage because it creates positive changes in the nutritional and physical properties of the chia seeds that make them even more beneficial for your health. Here are some important changes that happen to chia seeds soaked in water.