Are Chia Seeds Better for Constipation?Healthy Living

July 14, 2025 14:14
Are Chia Seeds Better for Constipation?

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Have you been having trouble with your stomach lately? Are you spending a lot of time in the bathroom every morning? Does the pain in your stomach make you feel irritated all day? If you agree with these, you're not the only one. Stomach issues, especially constipation, happen more often than we like to admit. It's not just about having a hard time going to the bathroom; its also about feeling bloated, uncomfortable, and that heavy feeling that always seems to be there. While constipation can happen because of stress, travel, hormone changes, or bad habits, the main problem is a slow digestive system that can't keep up. Instead of focusing on the problem, we will discuss solutions. Even with lots of high-fiber Indian foods like lentils, veggies, and whole grains, many people still get constipated and often don't talk about it. The main problem is not drinking enough water and not eating meals at regular times. This is where functional seeds can be helpful. Chia and sabja (basil) seeds may be small, but they greatly help with bowel movements and soothing the stomach. This writing will explore which of these natural choices can truly give you the relief you need.

Research in the International Journal of Food Properties showed that basil seeds have 40.85g of fiber per 100g, which is much more than the 34g of fiber in chia seeds. However, chia seeds are better in protein and omega-3 content. Nutritionist Dr. Poorvi Bhat says that although chia helps with long-term gut health, it can make constipation worse if you don't drink enough water with it. On the other hand, sabja seeds quickly make a slippery substance, making them good laxatives, especially in hot weather or when having stomach problems. Let's find out what makes these two seeds good and how to use them the right way.

Drinking enough water is key for easing constipation, and both seeds are good at making mucilage-a slippery, gel-like thing that helps food move through easier:

Basil seeds (Sabja): They start to get bigger in just a few minutes, creating a thick gel and a refreshing feeling. The International Journal of Food Properties says that basil seeds work as laxatives because of their mucilage and high amounts of phenolic compounds. These things are known to help with acidity, lower stomach swelling, and help with movement.

Chia seeds: They need 20 to 30 minutes to make gel but can soak up 12 times their weight in water. A study in Gastrointestinal Disorders showed that using chia seeds, especially with pea protein and xyloglucan, really improved IBS symptoms, including constipation, stool texture, and stomach pain.

This thick, jelly-like material works like a fiber that dissolves, easing the stomach and making it simpler to have regular bathroom visits. Pooja Makhija, a famous food expert, suggests basil seeds to help with feeling swollen and stomach issues from the heat. She mentions too, "Chia seeds are very helpful, but you need to drink enough water with them."

How To Use Chia Seeds Effectively:

- Put 1 spoonful into water or milk and let it sit for thirty minutes.
- You can stir these into blended drinks, oatmeal, or creamy yogurt.
- Be sure you are drinking eight to ten cups of water every day.

How To Use Basil Seeds (Sabja) Effectively:

- Put 1 spoonful into water and let them soak for ten to fifteen minutes.
- These seeds are great mixed with coconut water, lemon water, or traditional milk-based sweets.
- Having them before you eat can help you eat less and helps your body break down food.

Helpful Hint: Never eat these seeds when they are dry, because they get big and could make you choke.

If you can, try to use both kinds of seeds. A cool drink with soaked basil and chia in the morning can really help your stomach. Think about beginning your day with lemon water mixed with sabja and a chia smoothie – it will be good for your belly. Good digestion comes from not just what you eat but also how you eat, when you eat, and how much water you drink. Chia and basil seeds are a simple way to help your stomach work well. So, when your stomach feels slow, pick seeds instead of medicine.

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