‘Tadpole Water’ May Sound Gross – But It Could Be Surprisingly Good for Your Health

How far would you go to lose weight? Maybe cut back on sugar? He took Couch to 5km Challenge? Well, some TikTok users are so eager to drop the pounds that they have made the extreme-sounding decision to drink “tadpole water.”

Don’t worry, it’s not as bad as it sounds. This trend doesn’t involve drinking a glass of frog larvae. Instead, some social media users are drinking a broad mixture of water, lemon juice, and chia seeds. The look and texture of the concoction resembles a glass of frog roe.

Tadpole water enthusiasts claim it helps them feel full and lose weight, but others find it to have a slippery consistency makes them reflexively breathe.

So is this trendy drink worth the effort? What’s the science behind the social media claims?

Claims that lemon-flavored chia seed water aids weight loss don’t have to be so ridiculous.

Chia seeds are rich in fiberwhich aids digestion, promotes satiety and regulates blood sugar levels. The fiber in chia seeds is mostly soluble, which forms a gel-like substance in the stomach, slowing down digestion and provides a steady flow of energy. Tadpole water can therefore aid you feel full for longer, which can aid reduce your appetite and overall calorie intake.

And that’s not all. Chia seeds can also be a beneficial addition to heart healthy dietSeeds are one of the richest plant sources omega-3 fatty acidswhich are beneficial for heart health. Omega-3 fatty acids can aid lower levels of triglycerides, a type of fat in the blood that is our main source of energy and is indispensable for good health, but can boost the risk of heart disease at high levels. There is also evidence to suggest that chia seeds can aid lower blood pressure, as well as reduce blood sugar, inflammation and improve Cholesterol levelThey also contain a significant amount amount of protein – which makes them an excellent plant-based product protein source for vegetarians – and they are rich in nutrients.

Chia seeds contain numerous vitamins (thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, folic acid and vitamins A and C), including antioxidantswhich aid the body fight harmful free radicals by reducing oxidative stress – an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants in the body that leads to cell damage – which can reduce risk of chronic diseasessuch as cancer and heart disease. Chia seeds contain more of some minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, potassium and phosphorus, than other cereals.

Chia seeds can absorb up to 12 times their weight in water, so chia seed water with lemon helps promote feeling of satietyand hydration.

Sufficient hydration is indispensable for health. It is involved in practically all functions the human body, including metabolic processes, maintaining core body temperaturecirculation, lubrication of joints, transport of nutrients to cells and aid in the removal waste products. Water too helps digestion – breaking down food, absorbing nutrients and preventing constipation. Tests also emphasizes that adequate water intake maintains the intestines microbiome and supports the immune system.

Adding lemon juice to your chia seed water not only makes the drink tastier, but it can also complement some of the health benefits of the other ingredients. Lemon juice is rich in vitamin Cwhich can aid boost your immune system, improve iron absorption, aid digestion, and improve skin health. Lemon juice can also promote heart health helping to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Words of warning

But before you jump on board the TikTok tadpole-to-water train, there are a few reasons to exercise caution.

The gelling properties of chia seeds can be choking hazard. If you eat chia seeds desiccated, they can swell in the esophagus and cause an obstruction, so always soak the seeds for 15-30 minutes before eating.

If you suddenly start drinking water with chia seeds and lemon and your intestines are not used to it, a diet rich in fiberthen you can find the reason for drinking digestive discomfortincluding constipation, diarrhea, bloating, gas, and abdominal pain. People with inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease, should approach chia water with lemon with caution: it can cause flare-ups.

In addition, eating chia seeds can cause interactions with some medications. For example, eating chia seeds may grow the effects of medications on blood pressure, which can lead to low blood pressure.

Finally, although infrequent, the proteins in chia seeds may cause allergic reactionSymptoms can include itching, swelling, hives, and even difficulty breathing.

Overall, chia seeds are a versatile and valuable addition to a hearty diet that can be easily incorporated into variety of dishesincluding smoothies, oatmeal, yogurt and baked goods. The seeds can even be used as egg replacer in vegan recipes.

However, as with everything in life, moderation is key. Overeating chia seeds can lead to weight gain. And there’s no need to endure the feeling of drinking sludge if tadpole water makes you gag. You can get the same health benefits by adding chia seeds to the hearty foods you already eat — and drinking enough water throughout the day to stay properly hydrated.

So there’s no need to swallow phony frog spawn unless you really want to.