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Wondering when the best time to eat chia seeds is? Chia seeds are a superfood that offers many health benefits. They’re high in dietary fiber, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids.
You can add chia seeds to your favorite foods or drinks for a nutritional boost. They’re versatile and easy to use, so that you can enjoy their benefits anytime and anywhere.
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Nutritional value of chia seeds
Chia seeds consider a functional food because they offer more than just basic nutrition.
The nutrient composition of chia seeds is
| Item | Daily Value (DV) |
|---|---|
| Fiber: | 35% DV |
| Protein: | 14% of the DV |
| Fat: | 30% of the DV |
| Carbs: | 21% of the DV |
| Iron: | 27% of the DV |
| Zinc: | 10% of the DV |
| Manganese: | 73% of the DV |
| Magnesium: | 30% of the DV |
Chia seeds are also a good source of other vitamins and minerals, including:
- Vitamin B3 (niacin)
- Potassium
- Vitamin B1 (thiamine)
- Vitamin B2 (riboflavin)
The best time to eat chia seeds
In the Morning
An empty stomach in the Morning is the best time to eat chia seeds as it provides energy and keeps you feeling fuller for longer. In the Morning, our metabolism is also at its peak so that we can digest anything easily.
Before a workout
Chia seeds are a good source of energy and help you stay hydrated. They can also enhance your endurance and help you recover from exercise.
After a workout
Chia seeds are rich in protein and fiber, which can help you recover from exercise and build muscle.
At bedtime
Chia seeds can promote sleep and other health benefits when eaten before bed. They’re a good source of tryptophan, an amino acid that helps your body produce serotonin and melatonin.
Although there’s no wrong time to eat chia seeds, they may be especially beneficial when eaten at certain times of the day.
The most important thing is to incorporate them into your diet that suits your lifestyle.
How to Consume chia seeds
There are many ways to add chia seeds to your diet. The easiest way is to sprinkle them on top of your breakfast cereal or oatmeal or add them to a smoothie.
Add to water or juice – One of the simplest ways to drink chia seeds is to add them to water or juice. Just let the seeds soak for a few minutes before drinking.
Chia pudding – Chia pudding is a popular breakfast or snack made by soaking chia seeds in milk or plant-based milk. Add fruit, nuts, or spices for extra flavor.
Baked goods – You can add chia seeds to baked goods like muffins, cakes, and bread. Just be sure to increase the liquid content of your recipe to account for the porous nature of chia seeds.
Soups and stews – Chia seeds can also be added to soups and stews. Add them a few minutes before serving, so they have time to absorb the liquid.
As you can see, there are many ways to enjoy chia seeds. So, experiment with different methods and find what works best for you.
The Best Time to drink Chia Seeds for Weight Loss
The best time to drink chia seeds for weight loss is in the Morning. This is because chia seeds can help you feel full and reduce your daily calorie intake.
If you are not trying to lose weight, you can still benefit from chia seeds. It can help improve your digestion and reduce inflammation. You can also get these benefits by eating chia seeds in the evening.
Pineapple also reduces inflammation and Improve Blood Sugar Levels. Click here to learn more about them.
If pregnant or breastfeeding, speak to your doctor before adding chia seeds to your diet. This is because there is not enough research to know if chia seeds are safe for these groups of people.
Best chia seeds for weight loss
If you want to lose weight, look for chia seeds that are organic and unrefined. These chia seeds will have the most nutrients and be the most effective for weight loss.
For hassle-free, we have researched & shortlisted some of the best chia seeds for weight loss that are organic and unrefined.
Best Chia Seeds
- Nutiva Organic Chia Seeds
- Healthworks Chia Seeds
- Viva Naturals Chia Seeds
- Terrasoul Superfoods Raw Organic Chia Seeds
1. Nutiva Organic Chia Seeds
These chia seeds are USDA organic, non-GMO, and gluten-free. They are also unrefined and packed with nutrients.
Key Feature
- Nutrient-dense
- Rich in protein, antioxidants, essential omega fatty acids
- Can be consumed and digested whole
- Ideal for vegetarian, vegan, whole food, paleo, ketogenic, and gluten-free diets
The primary specialty of these chia seeds is that they are processed in a way that preserves their nutrient content. This makes them more effective for weight loss.
2. Healthworks Chia Seeds
Healthworks Chia Seed is also organic and unrefined. They are grown in South America and are a good source of fiber and protein.
Key Feature
- Healthworks Raw Chia Seeds are all-natural, nut-free, and grain-free.
- Packed with antioxidants and essential vitamins & minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and iron.
- Healthworks Chia Seeds are sustainably grown and sourced from small farmers.
3. Viva Naturals Chia Seeds
Viva Naturals chia seeds are an excellent choice for weight loss. They are certified organic, non-GMO, and gluten-free.
Key Feature
- These seeds are a great source of omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids.
- Perfect for smoothies, salads, and more: With a neutral flavor, chia seeds can be easily added to various dishes.
- Viva Naturals chia seeds are Non-GMO Project Verified, plus USDA Organic, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Kosher, Paleo, and Keto Certified.
These chia seeds also have a high fiber content, which can help you feel full and reduce your overall calorie intake.
4. Terrasoul Superfoods Raw Organic Chia Seeds
These chia seeds are certified USDA organic, non-GMO, and gluten-free. They are also unrefined and packed with nutrients.
Bottom line – Morning or Night?
So, when is the best time to eat chia seeds? There’s no definitive answer, but as a general rule, it can be drunk any time of the day.
Some people prefer to add them to their breakfast cereal or oatmeal, while others like to sprinkle them on top of a salad for an extra crunch.
You can also enjoy them as a healthy snack between meals—no matter when you choose to eat them.
Also, learn about Best Time To Drink Ginger Tea.
Chia Seeds: A Healthy Snack Option
FAQs about chia seeds
Is it OK to eat chia seeds every day?
No, there is no need to eat chia seeds every day. You can enjoy them a few times a week or as part of a healthy diet.
Are chia seeds good for people with diabetes?
Yes, chia seeds can be an excellent addition to a diabetic diet. They have a low glycemic index and can help regulate blood sugar levels.
Do chia seeds make you poop?
Yes, chia seeds can help promote regular bowel movements. This is because they are high in fiber and help to add bulk to your stool.
Are chia seeds good for constipation?
Yes, chia seeds can be helpful for people who suffer from constipation. The high fiber content helps to add bulk to your stool and promotes regular bowel movements.
Do chia seeds make you fat?
No, chia seeds will not make you fat. They may even help you lose weight. This is because they are high in fiber and help to keep you feeling full.
Do chia seeds have side effects?
No, there are no known side effects of chia seeds. However, if you are allergic to them, you may experience some digestive discomfort.
Christopher
Christopher is a Content Writer at Health Magazine Lab. In addition, he has worked as a professional blogger and has been writing extensively on different technologies, Health, and Fashion topics.
FAQs
Best time to eat chia seeds: Morning or Night? | Health Magazine Lab? ›
The best time to eat chia seeds is all day, and they can be easily added to various recipes to increase their nutritional value. Chia seeds can be eaten raw or added to puddings, breakfast smoothies, juices and more.
What is the best time to consume chia seeds? ›Chia seeds are packed with nutrition, but Beaver still recommends drinking chia seed water along with a meal. "Viscous fibers provide the most benefit when we consumed with food," Beaver explains. "The trapping action of these fibers is most efficient when we eat them as part of a larger meal."
What happens when you drink chia seeds before bed? ›Chia seeds may help you sleep
Chia seeds are tiny bundles of tryptophan, according to sharecare.com, and that amino acid raises melatonin and serotonin levels. These are the hormones that support stable sleep. (Doing this one thing every night might help you sleep, too!)
Chia seeds have proven benefits (we tried it ourselves!) when consumed on an empty stomach every morning. Apart from having high levels of fiber, calcium, protein and healthy fats, these seeds also contain magnesium that help to keep cortisol level low, and in turn, uplifts your mood.
What happens when you start eating chia seeds everyday? ›Chia seeds contain quercetin, an antioxidant that can reduce your risk of developing several health conditions, including heart disease. The seeds are also high in fiber, which can help to lower high blood pressure and, in turn, reduce your risk of developing heart disease.
Should I have chia seeds before bed or in the morning? ›Consumption of chia seeds in the morning especially on an empty stomach is considered to be the best time to consume them, as they increase the metabolism and support the digestion of every meal of the day. However, some research also supports that eating them at night helps in providing a better sleep pattern.
Should I drink chia water before bed or in the morning? ›“Drinking chia seed water in the morning can give a boost to your digestion and improve bowel movement. Great for your protein intake, heart health, bone health, blood sugar control, digestion, weight loss, and inflammation,” she writes.
Can I sleep after drinking chia seeds? ›Chia seeds are rich in tryptophan, an amino acid that regulates sleep pattern by improving mood. Drinking juice with chia seeds helps those suffering from insomnia.
Can I drink a glass of water with chia seeds before bed? ›The best time to drink chia seed water depends on your personal preferences. Drinking it in the afternoon may help prevent you from overeating later in the day, and drinking it in the evening could help reduce your appetite before bed.
What are the side effects of chia seeds morning? ›Eating too many chia seeds may cause side effects, such as digestive issues, allergic reactions, or weight gain. In moderation, however, chia seeds can be a nutritious addition to a balanced diet. Chia seeds are edible seeds that come from a plant belonging to the mint family, called Salvia hispanica.
How can I speed up my chia seeds absorption? ›
Cold water will take longer for the chia seeds to soften, but can still provide beneficial health benefits. Warm water will help the chia seeds absorb more liquid faster, resulting in quicker softening. No matter how you choose to soak them, chia seeds will provide an excellent nutrient boost to your diet.
How much water should I drink after chia seeds? ›Czerwony recommends putting one or two tablespoons of chia seeds in an eight- to 10-ounce glass of water. If you've never consumed the seeds before, you may want to start with a smaller amount to see how your body tolerates them.
How do you cleanse your intestines with chia seeds? ›Add 2 tbsp of chia seeds to a full glass of water, at least 8oz if not 16oz. Add freshly squeezed lemon juice to taste; up to 1 whole lemon. Optionally add 1/8 tsp of sea salt. Stir and let chia seeds absorb water; after up to 15 minutes, stir once more and drink.
How long does it take for chia seeds to work? ›Time: Gelling chia seeds takes time! 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.
Is it better to eat chia seeds dry or soaked? ›Because they quickly swell after absorbing liquid, it is advised to eat chia seeds that have already been soaked in liquid or are served with a moist food, such as oatmeal or yogurt. Do not eat dry chia seeds by themselves.
Is 2 tablespoons of chia seeds too much? ›These tiny seeds can provide fiber that helps lower cholesterol, boost your heart health and reduce your risk of developing chronic disease. That said, because chia seeds are packed with fiber and are calorie dense, stick with no more than 2 tablespoons per day.
How many times a week should you eat chia? ›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.
Do chia seeds interfere with medications? ›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.
How long should I soak chia seeds? ›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.
Can we soak chia seeds at night and drink in morning? ›06/7Soaking chia seeds overnight
Plus, the water it soaks up in the process can help you stay hydrated. You can simply add a teaspoon or two of chia seeds to water, drink this concoction in the morning. Another way to do it is to drain out the excess water, and use the gel-like mixture and then add it to your food.
Can I eat chia seeds everyday? ›
CHIA SEEDS ADD A NUTRITIONAL BOOST QUICKLY AND EASILY
They mix well with liquids, and they are a simple but quick addition of nutrients to a variety of foods. One thing to note, because they are so high in fiber, it's best to add them to your daily regimen slowly. If you typically eat a lot of fiber, you'll be okay.
To soak chia seeds, simply mix them in a 1:10 ratio of chia to water and let them sit for between 30 minutes to two hours. This equates to about one and a half tablespoons of chia seeds in one cup of water, and although it doesn't have to be exact, you do want it to gel all the way and not be too watery.
What happens if you don't soak chia seeds? ›Chia seeds are also great at keeping dehydration at bay because it holds so much liquid. 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.
Can chia seeds be taken at night for constipation? ›The best time to chug down chia seeds is at night, so they can do their magic while you sleep and you can do your business in the morning before leaving the house. The right amount of chia seeds totally depends on your level of constipation and the rate at which your GI system moves.
How do you eat chia seeds for arthritis? ›Tips: Stir into yogurt along with some fruit, add to smoothies or sprinkle onto cereal or salads. Chia seeds are also an excellent source of anti-inflammatory ALA, but their biggest benefit is probably their high fiber content (about 10 grams per serving), which will you fill you up and help control weight, says Moore.
Can I drink coffee after chia seeds water? ›Chia seeds are loaded with fiber, protein, healthy fats, and vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Adding them to your coffee can boost its nutritional profile and provide you with essential nutrients that you might not get from other sources.
Is chia seeds good for kidney? ›Are they allowed on the Renal Diet? These seeds are quite high in protein and phosphate, with a two tablespoon dose giving an average of 25-30% of your daily phosphate allowance. For this reason these seeds are not recommended for people on Renal diets.
Why soak chia seeds before eating? ›The soaking process allows the release of enzyme inhibitors, helping to soften the hard seed coat which 'unlocks' the seeds' nutrients and makes their digestion much easier. When soaked, they also help to slow down digestion, keeping us feeling fuller for longer.
What happens if you soak chia seeds too long? ›But it is ideal if you can leave them to soak overnight. What is this? They will absorb more liquid and when you are consuming them, they will keep you hydrated. If you soak chia seeds longer, they will digest faster than the ones soaked for a short period.
How do you eat chia seeds for cholesterol? ›3 Because of this, chia seeds may be included in a diet to lower your cholesterol and triglycerides. Chia seeds can be included in a variety of foods, including: Mixing chia seeds into whole grain pancakes or muffins. Tossing in a handful of chia seeds into your morning cereal, yogurt, or oatmeal.
Should I soak chia seeds in water before consuming? ›
You do not need to soak chia seeds for a specific amount of time in order to consume them or reap the benefits of them. From a culinary standpoint however, chia seeds perform best when submerged or mixed with some kind of liquid (e.g. chia pudding, baked goods, in smoothies, mixed with yogurt).
How long to wait after drinking chia seeds? ›I used the same chia seed recipe before each meal but it required some extra steps. I put one teaspoon of chia seeds in an eight-ounce glass of water and let it rest for 15-20 minutes.
Do chia seeds clean out your colon? ›Chia seeds and flaxseeds are high in fiber and are considered two of the most popular superfoods. The Omega-3 fatty acids in both seeds may help reduce inflammation, as well as can help flush out built-up toxins in the colon.
Do chia seeds move your bowels? ›All that fiber in chia seeds is mostly insoluble fiber, which doesn't dissolve in fluids. Instead, it absorbs fluids and helps create bulky, soft stool. So yes, chia seeds have the right kind of fiber to loosen your poop and give you some constipation relief.
Do chia seeds flush out toxins? ›Despite their tiny size, chia seeds are chock full of nutrients and are a fantastic detox and weight-loss food. With plenty of antioxidants, minerals, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids, chia seeds will help cleanse your insides as they collect toxins on their way out.
Is chia seeds better with hot or cold water? ›Cold water is the best option for soaking chia seeds. Unlike a lot of other foods, heat isn't needed to break down and soften chia seeds. What is this? They can easily absorb the water when it is cold.
Do chia seeds need to be refrigerated? ›WATCH: Food safety tips to keep in mind at home
Tong adds chia and flax seeds should also be refrigerated. “Chia and flax seeds should be stored in the fridge to extend their life and to prevent their volatile oils from becoming rancid or from oxidizing.”
- Blow on it with a fan to remove chaff, dust and some leaf bits.
- Sieve it to remove both the stuff that's too course or too fine.
- Run it slowly down an inclined plane, like a breadboard. Seeds tend to bounce, crud doesn't and will stick to the board.
There are no hard-and-fast guidelines on how many chia seeds you should eat daily. But some doctors and institutions offer reasonable recommendations, such as Columbia University, which suggests eating 20 g (or a bit under 2 tbsp) of chia twice per day.
Is 4 teaspoons of chia seeds too much? ›To avoid unpleasant digestive side-effects, it's recommended that adults start by eating just two tablespoons (15g) of chia seeds per day, slowly working their way up to a larger serving of up to 28g (1oz).
Can I have 2 tablespoons of chia seeds a day? ›
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.
What is the max amount of chia seeds per day? ›Chia seeds: What are the guidelines and recommendations for consumption? On the packaging of chia seeds you will find the limit of 15 g daily. This corresponds to about one heaped tablespoon. This does not mean that it is harmful or unsafe for you to eat more than this recommended amount.
How do you eat chia seeds for high blood pressure? ›Soak chia seeds in a cup of water for a little less than an hour. Add a juice of half a lemon in it and drink it as the first thing in the morning. To add taste, you can also add honey to it.
Is a teaspoon of chia seeds a day good for you? ›Chia seeds are an excellent source of fiber, which can improve heart health, reduce cholesterol levels and promote intestinal health. Fiber takes longer to digest and makes you feel satisfied longer, which is how it can help with weight loss and decrease your risk of developing diabetes or heart disease.
Is high blood pressure a side effect of chia seeds? ›Chia seeds help to reduce blood sugar and high blood pressure. If you're already taking medications for diabetes or hypertension, eating too many chia seeds can cause severe dips in blood sugar levels and blood pressure, which may lead to other health complications.
Do chia seeds block absorption of vitamins? ›Chia seeds generally do not cause any adverse effects. However, they may have blood-thinning effects in large doses, and they contain a plant compound that can reduce mineral absorption.
Do chia seeds affect estrogen levels? ›The idea behind seed cycling is that certain types of seeds, such as pumpkin, flax, and chia, can help regulate the levels of estrogen, progesterone and other hormones.
Is it OK to eat chia seeds everyday? ›Eating Too Many Chia Seeds Can Cause Digestive Issues
Excessive fiber intake can cause problems like abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, bloating and gas ( 9 ).
These tiny seeds can provide fiber that helps lower cholesterol, boost your heart health and reduce your risk of developing chronic disease. That said, because chia seeds are packed with fiber and are calorie dense, stick with no more than 2 tablespoons per day.
How many spoons of chia seeds can you eat a day? ›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.
How long should I soak chia seeds before eating them? ›
You do not need to soak chia seeds for a specific amount of time in order to consume them or reap the benefits of them. From a culinary standpoint however, chia seeds perform best when submerged or mixed with some kind of liquid (e.g. chia pudding, baked goods, in smoothies, mixed with yogurt).