‘Tadpole water’ may sound bad – but it can be surprisingly good for your health

How much weight could you lose? Maybe you could cut back on the sugar? Take the Couch to 5K challenge? Well, some TikTokers are so obsessed with losing weight that they have taken it to the extreme of drinking “tadpole water”.

Don’t worry, it’s not as bad as it seems. This method does not necessarily involve taking down the glasses of frog larvae. Instead, some social media users mix a mixture of water, lemon juice and chia seeds. The appearance and consistency of the concoction is similar to frogspawn glass.

Proponents of tadpole water say it helps them feel energized and lose weight but others find that the slimy texture makes them constipated.

So, is this common drink worth the trouble? What technologies influence social media?

Claims that this lemony chia seed water helps with weight loss may not be so far-fetched.

Chia seeds are high in fiber, which aids digestion, promotes feelings of fullness and regulates blood sugar. The fiber in chia seeds is highly soluble and forms a gel-like substance in the stomach, slowing digestion and providing a steady flow of energy. So tadpole water can help you feel fuller for longer, which can help reduce your appetite and overall calorie intake.

And that’s not all. Chia seeds can also be a good addition to a heart-healthy diet. The seeds are one of the richest plant sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for heart health. Omega-3 fatty acids can help lower triglycerides – a type of blood fat that is our main source of energy and important for health but can raise the risk of heart disease at high levels. There is also evidence that chia seeds can help lower blood pressure as well as reduce blood sugar, inflammation and improve cholesterol levels. They are also high in protein – making them a good source of plant protein for vegetarians – and are rich in nutrients.

Chia seeds are rich in vitamins (thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, folic acid and vitamins A and C), including antioxidants, which help the body fight against harmful radicals that reduce stress – no the balance of radicals and antioxidants in your body. cell damage – which can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as cancer and heart disease. Chia seeds are higher in some minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, potassium and phosphorus, than other whole grains.

Chia seeds can absorb up to 12 times their weight in water, so lemon seed water helps promote feelings of fullness, and hydration.

Adequate hydration is essential for good health. It is involved in almost all functions of the human body, including metabolic processes, maintaining core body temperature, circulation, lubricating joints, transporting nutrients to cells, and aiding in waste removal. . Water also aids digestion – it breaks down food, absorbs nutrients and prevents constipation. Research also highlights that drinking enough water maintains the gut microbiota and helps support the immune system.

Adding lemon juice to chia seed water not only makes the drink tastier but can also add to the health benefits of the other ingredients. Lemon juice is rich in vitamin C, which can help boost the immune system, enhance iron absorption, aid digestion and improve skin health. Lemon juice can also improve heart health by helping to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Words of caution

But, before you jump on the TikTok tadpole water bandwagon, there are reasons to be cautious.

The gelling properties of chia seeds can be a choking hazard. If eaten dry, chia seeds can grow in the esophagus and cause obstruction, so always soak the seeds for 15-30 minutes before consumption.

If you suddenly start drinking lemon chia seed water and your gut is not used to high fiber foods, then you may find that this drink causes digestive problems, including constipation, diarrhea, bloating, gas and abdominal pain. People with inflammatory bowel conditions such as Crohn’s disease should approach lemon chia water with caution: it can cause flare-ups.

Also, eating chia seeds can cause interactions with other medications. For example, eating chia seeds can increase the effectiveness of blood pressure medications, which can lead to low blood pressure.

Finally, although rare, the proteins in chia seeds can cause allergic reactions. Symptoms may include itching, swelling, hives or difficulty breathing.

Overall, though, chia seeds are a versatile and valuable addition to a healthy diet that can easily be incorporated into a variety of dishes, including smoothies, oatmeal, yogurt, and baked goods. The seeds can even be used as an egg substitute in vegan recipes.

However, like everything in life, moderation is key. Eating too much chia seeds can lead to weight gain. And there’s no reason to put up with the idea of ​​drinking slime if tadpole water makes you nervous. You can get the same health benefits by adding chia seeds to your already healthy diet — and drinking enough water throughout the day to stay well hydrated.

So, you don’t need to stick to fake frogspawn unless you really want to.