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Starting the morning with a healthy drink has become the most popular health trend in today’s lifestyle. From fitness experts to nutritionists, everyone is advising to drink lukewarm water mixed with lemon juice and soaked chia seeds in the morning on an empty stomach. This combination of small chia seeds and vitamin C rich lemon, included in the superfood category, is considered very effective in detoxifying the body from within, increasing energy levels and protecting from many lifestyle diseases. If you also consume this morning detox drink regularly, then you should have complete knowledge of its actual effects on the body, nutritional value and correct consumption rules.
Perfect help in boosting metabolism and weight control
The mixture of lemon and chia seeds is the most tried recipe for weight loss and reducing stubborn belly fat. Soluble fiber is found in abundance in chia seeds. When these seeds are soaked in water, they absorb 10 to 12 times more water than their weight and turn into a gel-like substance (mucilage). By drinking it on an empty stomach in the morning, this gel gets slowly digested in the stomach, which maintains satiety for a long time and controls the cravings for frequent unhealthy snacks. At the same time, citric acid and polyphenols present in lemon increase the metabolic rate, which speeds up the process of burning calories in the body.
Digestive system, intestinal health and relief from constipation
In modern lifestyle, problems like constipation, acidity and bloating are common due to irregular eating habits. The fiber of chia seeds works like a broom in internal cleaning of the intestines. It facilitates intestinal motility (peristalsis) by increasing the stool bulk, which provides relief from even chronic constipation. Additionally, chia seeds act as an excellent prebiotic, nourishing the good gut microbiome. Lemon juice activates the production of hydrochloric acid and bile in the stomach, due to which whatever food is eaten throughout the day is easily digested.
Preventing Blood Sugar Spikes and Insulin Sensitivity
Lemon-chia water can prove to be a boon for people suffering from diabetes and pre-diabetes. After eating carbohydrate-rich food, the glucose level in the blood increases rapidly. The gelatinous coating of chia seeds slows down the breakdown of carbohydrates and the absorption of glucose. Consuming this drink regularly in the morning improves insulin sensitivity and helps prevent sugar spikes that occur after meals.
Heart health and reduction in bad cholesterol (LDL)
Chia seeds are considered to be the richest source of plant-based omega-3 fatty acid i.e. alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). Omega-3 fatty acids play an important role in reducing inflammation of blood vessels, reducing triglyceride levels and controlling high blood pressure. Flavonoids and antioxidants found in lemon prevent the accumulation of bad cholesterol (LDL) in the arteries. This combined effect of both strengthens the cardiovascular system and reduces the risk of heart diseases to a great extent.
Promotes skin glow, hydration and collagen production
If your skin remains lifeless, dry or affected by acne, then this drink is a natural tonic for the skin. Vitamin C present in lemon is a powerful antioxidant, which is essential for the natural formation of collagen in the body. Collagen maintains the elasticity and tightness of the skin. On the other hand, chia seeds deeply hydrate the body cells and protect them from damage caused by free radicals, thereby maintaining a natural glow and freshness on the face.
Do not make these 4 serious mistakes while drinking lemon-chia water
Seeing the benefits of this drink, many people start consuming it wrongly, which can cause harm instead of benefits:
Consumption of dry or semi-raw chia seeds: Never make the mistake of swallowing dry chia seeds directly or drinking them immediately by mixing them in water. It is important to let them soak completely in water for at least 20-30 minutes or overnight, otherwise they may swell and cause blockage in the food pipe.
Erosion of tooth enamel: The acid present in lemon can weaken the protective layer (enamel) of teeth. To avoid this, always drink this drink through a straw and rinse it with plain water immediately after drinking.
Consuming excessive amounts: Chia seeds are very high in fiber. In the beginning, take only half to one teaspoon of chia seeds. Taking too much suddenly can cause stomach ache, gas and diarrhea.
Use of very hot water: Do not add lemon juice and chia seeds to boiling or very hot water, as extreme temperatures destroy the vitamin C of lemon. Always use lukewarm or normal temperature water.
Correct and scientific method of preparing lemon-chia drink
Add 1 teaspoon (about 10-12 grams) of clean chia seeds to a glass (about 250-300 ml) of water. Stir it well with a spoon so that the seeds do not stick together, and keep it for 20 minutes. When the seeds swell and take a thick gel-like form, then squeeze the juice of half a fresh lemon into it. If you want, you can add a pinch of black salt or half a teaspoon of pure honey to it. Drink it in sips in the morning after defecation and 30 to 45 minutes before breakfast.