Mixing Chia Seeds with Coffee, Good or Bad?

Chia seeds, small black and white seeds, seem to be best consumed with water or milk. You can even add a little lemon to your chia seed water to stay in shape. These healthy seeds, which are rich in fiber, protein, and antioxidants, can also be paired with black coffee.

Yes, adding chia seeds to a cup of coffee is a great idea! After all, this widely consumed beverage does more than just keep you alert. Chia seeds and coffee are a combination of two powerful ingredients that can provide benefits. Weight loss, for example. However, consume chia seeds with coffee in moderation, because this drink can also have side effects. 

Why can it lose weight?

In a 2023 study published in the Journal of Medical and Health Sciences, researchers found that consuming chia seeds when combined with a hypocaloric (low-calorie) diet can lead to significant weight loss. 

Chia seeds are also high in protein and fiber. “Because of their high fiber and protein content, chia seeds can help with weight loss,” Ayurveda and gastroenterologist Dimple Jangda told HealthShots. 

This is because, when digested in the stomach, chia seeds expand and keep you full for a long time. 

Meanwhile, caffeine not only increases mental alertness but can also reduce body fat, according to a study published in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition in 2019. 

So by mixing chia seeds and coffee, you can lose weight. Of course, it must be done in the right portion. In addition, there are several benefits of mixing coffee with chia seeds, such as:

1. Facilitates bowel movements 

Consuming chia seeds can smooth digestion, and ensure regular bowel movements because of their high fiber content. Coffee can also help with bowel movements.

Drinking a mixture of coffee and chia seeds can increase muscle contractions in the colon in just 4 minutes. This condition can make you feel like you need to have a bowel movement, according to research published in the journal Nutrients in 2020.

2. Prevent diabetes 

Chia seeds may be beneficial for people with diabetes, as their fiber content may help regulate blood sugar levels. So is coffee. In a study published in the journal Diabetologia in 2014, researchers found that people who increased their coffee consumption by more than one cup a day had at least an 11 percent lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

3. Avoid oxidative stress 

Chia seeds and coffee have antioxidant properties that can provide protection from oxidative stress, which is an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants in the body, and can cause cell damage. The combination of the two can reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease.

4. Supports heart health 

Mix chia seeds with coffee for a stronger heart. A study published in The Ochsner Journal in 2023 found that moderate coffee consumption can reduce cardiovascular mortality, heart failure, hypertension, and cholesterol. Meanwhile, chia seeds contain omega-3 fatty acids, which may be good for heart health.

5. Hydrating  

Chia seeds absorb water, creating a gel-like consistency, which in turn helps hydrate. This is great for the body’s fluid balance. As for caffeine, it increases urine production. However, the fluids in caffeinated drinks like coffee can balance out this diuretic effect.

Side effects of consuming chia seeds with coffee

This drink is good for health, but may have side effects, namely:

• – Chia seeds in large amounts can cause stomach discomfort, as they are high in fiber. So, start with one teaspoon, then increase as your body allows.
• – Too much coffee can trigger anxiety, restlessness, or an inability to sleep well, so consume it in moderation.

Keep in mind, you will not lose significant weight just by consuming chia seeds with coffee. You also need to follow a healthy diet and do physical activity consistently.