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From social media influencers to fitness experts, everyone is recommending starting the morning with lemon and chia seeds water. From metropolitan cities to small towns, millions of people are starting their daily routine with this magical detox drink in their desire to lose weight, melt belly fat and get a natural glow on their face. Adopting any health trend without thinking can sometimes cause serious harm instead of benefits. Nutritionists and gastroenterologists clearly believe that if you are taking this mixture of chia seeds and lemon in the right way, in the right proportion and without understanding your physical condition, then it can have a negative impact on many vital organs of the body.
Real effect of mixture of lemon and chia seeds on the body
Chia seeds are considered a superfood because they are rich in soluble fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential minerals. When these seeds are soaked in water, they absorb water about 10 to 12 times their original size and form a thick gel (mucilage). Lemon is a rich source of Vitamin C, flavonoids and citric acid.
When this mixture is drunk in the morning on an empty stomach, it slows down the movement of food in the intestines, which makes the stomach feel full for a longer period and prevents unnecessary hunger. It balances the electrolytes of the body and speeds up metabolism. Physiologically, this powerful combination of fiber and acid is not suitable for everyone’s digestive nature.
Does belly fat really reduce or is it just an illusion?
There is a misconception in the society regarding weight loss that drinking lemon-chia water automatically melts the belly fat. Modern medical science and nutritionists make it clear that no drink can directly eliminate fat cells.
This drink only plays a supporting role. The high fiber present in it activates the satiety hormone, which reduces calorie consumption throughout the day. If a person maintains an unhealthy diet, excessive sugar and inactive routine after drinking lemon-chia water, then this drink will not bring any weight loss. Permanent weight control is possible only with calorie deficit and regular physical exercise.
5 hidden disadvantages of lemon-chia water that you need to know
Rapid erosion of tooth enamel: Lemon contains high amount of citric acid. When a person drinks this acidic solution every morning on an empty stomach, it starts weakening the outermost protective layer of the teeth i.e. tooth enamel. Due to this, the risk of tooth sensitivity, yellowness and cavity increases manifold.
Risk of blockage in the food pipe from uncooked seeds: Chia seeds have extraordinary ability to absorb water. If the seeds are not soaked in water for sufficient time and they begin to swell after entering the stomach, they may get stuck in the esophagus. This can cause severe obstruction to breathing and swallowing, which can lead to a medical emergency.
Severe stomach cramps, gas and bloating: People who usually eat a low-fiber diet and suddenly start taking large doses of chia seeds every morning, their intestines are unable to digest so much fiber at once. As a result, problems like flatulence, excessive gas, cramps and diarrhea begin.
Interaction with blood thinners and blood pressure medications: Chia seeds contain high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, which have natural blood-thinning properties. If a patient is already taking blood-thinning medications (such as aspirin, warfarin) or high blood pressure medications, consuming more chia seeds may cause his or her blood pressure to drop unexpectedly.
Severe acid reflux and heartburn: For people who already suffer from gastritis, peptic ulcer or GERD, consuming lemon water on an empty stomach can cause heartburn, sour belching and severe chest pain.
Which people should stay away from this drink completely?
Patients suffering from chronic stomach ulcers or hyperacidity. People suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), whose digestive system is extremely sensitive to fiber. Low blood pressure (Hypotension) patients. People who have any kind of seed allergy problem.
100% correct way to prepare and drink lemon-chia water
Keep the quantity in mind: Only 1 teaspoon (about 5 to 10 grams) of chia seeds is enough for a glass of water. Never use two-three spoons together.
Correct soaking time: Soak the chia seeds in normal or lukewarm water for at least 30 to 45 minutes, so that they become completely gel. The best way is to leave them soaked in water overnight.
Balanced use of lemon: Squeeze only half a fresh lemon in a glass. Avoid making too sour or spicy solution.
Mandatory use of straw: To protect the tooth enamel from direct contact with acid, always drink this drink with the help of a straw and rinse thoroughly with plain water immediately after drinking.
Drink enough water throughout the day: The fiber in chia seeds works best only when the body is fully hydrated. If you consume this drink, then drink at least 2.5 to 3 liters of water throughout the day so that dryness does not occur in the intestines.
Health is not achieved by any shortcut but by balance, right information and consistency. Lemon and chia seeds water is definitely a treasure trove of nutrients, but instead of blindly drinking it as a miracle, understanding your body’s reaction and following the right rules can keep you healthy and fit.