Finally, the summer days are left behind and we are enjoying nature’s gift in the form of rain. While it is time to enjoy those fried pakoras with tea and relax your soul with the cool breeze touching your face, it is also important that we protect ourselves from viruses and various health problems. During the monsoon season, it is very common to struggle with digestive problems. This happens because the humidity promotes the growth of bacteria in our body which causes stomach problems, especially constipation. To deal with this, many people resort to chia seeds for its known benefits. But did you know, it can make your constipation problem even worse? If you are wondering how is this so then wait and read the full article.
Also read: How to Consume Chia Seeds for Weight Loss – Do’s and Don’ts
Doctor and nutritionist Dr. Poorvi Bhat has shared a video on her Instagram handle, which gives information about chia seeds and their effects on gut health. She has also shared tips on how to consume chia seeds to get maximum nutrition.
Check out the video below:
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What is constipation and why does it happen?
According to the official website of Johns Hopkins Medicine, constipation is a condition in which a person has infrequent or uncomfortable bowel movements. A person is considered constipated if their bowel movements are hard and dry or occur less than three times a week. Constipation can have many causes, some of the common causes are medications, lack of exercise, not drinking enough water, not taking enough fiber, lifestyle changes, etc.
Are chia seeds good or bad for gut health? Do chia seeds work as a constipation remedy?
Chia seeds are rich in fiber which can make your bowel movement smooth. Every 100 grams of chia seeds will provide you with 40 grams of fiber. You can consume chia seeds in many ways to keep your digestive system healthy – through water, smoothies, shakes or soups.
However, according to Dr. and nutritionist Poorvi Bhat, chia seeds, which are often praised for their high fiber content, can make your constipation worse if you don’t drink enough water. Why, you ask? This is because chia seeds and sabja seeds absorb all the water from the intestine. If you eat large amounts of chia seeds throughout the day and don’t drink water, chances are that the excess fiber can end up in your intestine and make your constipation worse. Nutritionists suggest drinking enough water because the Indian diet in general is rich in fiber but lacks water.
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You should eat these 5 foods to avoid constipation
If you’re still struggling with constipation even after consuming chia seeds, maybe it’s time to change your approach and try some other foods to keep your digestive system healthy and happy.
1. Sweet Potato
Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber and nutrients that can help you relieve constipation. You can include this root vegetable in your diet in many ways, just make sure to boil it to increase its nutritional value.
2. Probiotics
Probiotics are gut-boosting bacteria found in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, kombucha, etc. Probiotics are known to improve digestion and provide relief from constipation, thus supporting a happy and healthy gut.
3. Olive and flax seed oil
Olive and flax seeds are rich in soluble and insoluble fiber – which is very important for maintaining healthy digestion. The seeds also provide various nutrients and healthy fats that help improve gut functioning.
4. Fruits and Vegetables
Fresh and seasonal fruits and vegetables are rich in fiber as well as antioxidants and other nutrients that help with digestion and gut health. Always make sure to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables daily for a healthy gut.
5. Figs and Raisins
Sweet-dried figs and raisins are great for keeping digestion healthy. The best way to eat them is to soak them in water overnight and eat them on an empty stomach the next morning.
Also read: Chia seeds and Sabja seeds are not the same. Know how to differentiate between them
Can you suggest any other foods that may help relieve constipation? Let us know in the comments below!
