Man’s food pipe choked after drinking water over dry chia seeds! Doctor sheds light on why it happened | Health

Recently, a video has gone viral that shows the harmful effects that chia seeds can have on the human esophagus. In the video, Dr. Selmed Metzer explains the harmful effects of chia seeds: “Chia seeds are a popular superfood known for their remarkable ability to absorb water and expand up to 27 times their original volume when fully hydrated. This unique property makes them a valuable ingredient in a healthy diet, as they are rich in dietary fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, protein and a variety of essential nutrients.”

Also read: 8 Ways to Include Chia Seeds in Your Diet

Dr Selmed further explained that the person drank water after consuming the chia seeds, which caused the seeds to absorb water and expand, blocking the esophagus. “It is important to soak chia seeds in water or another liquid before consuming them, allowing them to absorb enough water and expand outside the body. Soaking for 20-30 minutes is usually sufficient. This ensures that they are in the safest and most beneficial form for consumption,” he added.

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Saiprasad G Lad, Gastroenterologist, Hepatologist and Interventional Gastrointestinal Endoscopist at Wockhardt Hospital, Mumbai, further elaborated on the potential risks of consuming chia seeds:

See also: 12 Amazing Benefits of Chia Seeds and How to Eat Them

Potential risks and precautions

Water Absorption:

Chia seeds can absorb up to 12 times their weight in water, a property that causes them to form a gel-like consistency when soaked in water.

Drink plenty of fluids:

It is important to take them with plenty of fluids, such as water, milk, or a milk substitute, to prevent the seeds from expanding in the esophagus and stomach and causing discomfort.

See also: Chia Seed Water for Weight Loss: Does It Work?

Risks of not drinking enough water:

Digestive problems and bloating:

If you don’t drink enough water, chia seeds may expand in your stomach, causing discomfort and bloating.

Cramps and constipation:

The high fiber content combined with insufficient hydration can lead to constipation and abdominal cramps.

Food bolus obstruction:

Bolus obstruction occurs when a food bolus (in this case, a swollen chia seed) gets stuck in the esophagus.

Medical Emergencies:

A food bolus impaction requires prompt medical intervention. It may require endoscopic surgery to remove the food bolus with a basket or push it down into the stomach using endoscopic instruments.

Endoscopic removal:

A medical procedure using an endoscope may be needed to remove the blockage with a basket tool or to push the food mass into the stomach using special instruments.

Aspiration hazard:

If chia seeds enter the trachea, it can cause choking, which is a medical emergency. This situation can block the airway, leading to difficulty breathing and, in severe cases, death if not treated immediately.