The Aztec food staple has become a viral TikTok trend that has taken social media by storm. This is the “Chia Seed Challenge” that promises weight loss, improved gut health and digestion.
Although not entirely new in the health field, nutrient-dense small grains are gaining popularity online by health and wellness influencers and artificial intelligence (AI) creators.
Although the benefits of consuming chia are well-documented, social media experts and nutritionists are warning internet users to be wary of content containing inaccurate or exaggerated information.
With tens of millions of videos online related to superfoods, how do you know what you’re watching is backed by medical research?
Health and wellness influencers and AI creators are promoting the benefits of consuming chia seeds online. (Provided by: TikTok)
What are chia seeds?
Chia seeds are made from a lavender-like plant with purple flowers. salvia hispanica.
Originating in Mexico, chia has been introduced to the United States in recent decades. Northern Territorythe Ord Valley region of Queensland and Western Australia. Kimberly.
Superseeds are highly regarded for their high content of omega-3 fatty acids and are often added to smoothies and smoothies. overnight oatsused in chia pudding and jam recipes.
Chia seeds are obtained from a plant called Salvia hispanica, which resembles flowering lavender. (Provided by: The Chia Company)
Chia seeds, commonly found in the health food section of supermarket aisles, come in either black or white colors, and there is no nutritional difference between them.
Are they really good for you?
Nutritionist Amelia Halley from the University of Western Australia said consuming chia seeds had many benefits for the body.
“Like many nuts and seeds, chia seeds are truly a superfood.”
she said.
“They are about 24 percent protein and are also what we call a ‘complete protein source.’ This means it contains all nine amino acids. ”
Amelia Halley says you don’t need to soak chia seeds to activate their nutritional benefits. (Provided by: Matt Biosich)
Chia seeds are also rich in dietary fiber, which promotes gut health.
“It’s about 33 percent fibrous, including both soluble and insoluble fiber,” Dr. Halley said.
“Not only is fiber good for your gut health, it can lower blood cholesterol levels, reduce your risk of heart disease, and help you feel fuller longer.”
Ameira Haley says chia seeds are safe to eat, soaked or unsoaked. (ABC Kimberley: Andrew Seaborn)
Although many online videos tout chia as being responsible for the “weight loss transformation,” Dr. Halley cautioned people on a low-fiber diet against suddenly increasing their intake of chia.
“Chia seeds are very high in fiber, so if someone on a low-fiber diet starts eating a lot of chia seeds, they may experience abdominal discomfort,” she says.
“When it goes from zero to 100 quickly, you get bloating and cramping.”
Does it need to be soaked?
According to Dr. Halley, chia can be safely consumed with or without soaking.
When added to a liquid, the seeds absorb it and expand in size.
Although many online creators warn that the seeds must be soaked before eating, it is safe to eat chia “raw” by sprinkling it on foods such as cereal or yogurt.
Nutritionists say it’s safe to sprinkle raw chia on food. (Getty Images: GMVozd)
We asked Dr. Halley if there’s a clear right and wrong way to eat chia seeds.
“We know you don’t need to soak chia seeds to activate their nutritional benefits,” she said.
“We’ve seen this on social media, but it’s not actually supported by evidence.”
TikTok trends often feature health foods promoted as treating gut health, digestion, and skin conditions. (ABC Kimberley: Andrew Seaborn)
However, nutritionists did not advise people to eat dried chia seeds by the spoonful.
“The danger of swallowing dried chia seeds is if they get stuck in your throat,” she says.
Many content creators promote “chia seed water” as a weight loss drink. (ABC Kimberley: Andrew Seaborn)
Dr. Halley said the nutritional benefits of soaked and unsoaked chia are similar.
“When you soak chia seeds, a gel forms, so anyone who has eaten chia seeds will know that they thicken quickly,” she says.
“It’s great for our gut health and helps our digestive system, but we also know that it’s a great source of fiber even when eaten without soaking.
“The important thing is to eat the way you like.”
Should I believe what I see on video?
Internet research professor Tama Lieber said she was not surprised to see another health product “trending” on social media called “Wellness Loop.”
“Some [creators] “We’re probably explaining it in a way that’s consistent with health advice,” he said.
”And then you get to the whole end of the spectrum where people claim that it’s basically the next miracle cure for everything related to your inner health.”
Professor Lieber said health advice was often exaggerated and “overhyped”.
Tama defectors say social media users should not take health advice at face value. (Provided by: Tama River)
“There are also a lot of people who jump on the trend and compound the claims that these products are useful in order to get more clicks,” he says.
“That’s how they make a living, that’s their business model.
“It’s not based on health or medical knowledge. That’s the real danger here.”
Beware of AI-generated videos
Curtin University professor says AI is increasingly being used to promote health products on social media. AI creators will be able to generate videos In just 30 seconds.
“Nothing can be taken at face value.”
Professor Lieber said:
“Yesterday, I researched chia seeds. The first five videos were deep, explosive AI-narrated videos promoting the amazing properties of chia seeds and how they can permanently improve your gut health.”
Tama Lieber says social media users should check the information they see in online content. (Provided by: Unsplash)
He said users should be aware of health and wellness claims and verify them before taking advice.
“You have to do a three-click context check,” Professor Lieber said.
“Find out the person making the allegations. Do they have a background? What other videos have they posted? Do they look like they’re just trying to make money?”