Improper chia seed consumption can be dangerous, doctor warns: ‘It has sent people to hospital

Chia seeds are packed with nutrients, but consuming them incorrectly can cause serious problems. Gastroenterologist Dr. Saurabh Sethi, who regularly shares health tips with his Instagram followers, recently highlighted the risks linked to eating chia seeds the wrong way.

According to Dr. Sethi, some people have ended up in hospital after swallowing dry chia seeds followed by water. “The seeds expanded and became lodged in the oesophagus, which then required an endoscopic procedure to remove,” he explained. While such cases are rare, they can occur in people with swallowing difficulties or other digestive conditions.

So, what’s the safe way to eat chia seeds?
Dr. Sethi pointed out that chia seeds can absorb up to 27 times their weight in liquid. To prevent complications, they must be soaked before consumption. “Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes—or even overnight—until they develop a gel-like consistency,” he advised. This not only makes them easier to digest but also safer to eat.For beginners, he suggested starting with just one teaspoon and slowly increasing the quantity as the body adjusts. Following these simple steps allows you to gain the nutritional benefits of chia seeds without unnecessary health risks.