9 foods you should avoid mixing with chia seeds

Chia seeds are a tiny but powerful superfood. They’re full of fiber, omega-3s, protein, and antioxidants that help your heart, digestion, and energy. But to get the best from chia seeds, you need to be careful about what you eat with them.

Certain food combinations can reduce nutrient absorption or cause digestive discomfort like bloating or upset stomach. By avoiding these combinations and pairing chia seeds with the right foods, you can enjoy their full health benefits without any issues. Being mindful helps you get the most out of this nutritious seed every day.

Avoid mixing these foods with chia seeds

1. Foods high in phytic acid

Phytic acid is found in beans, lentils, nuts, and some grains. It can stop your body from absorbing important minerals like calcium, iron, and zinc. Chia seeds also have phytic acid, so eating them together with these foods might lower the amount of minerals your body gets. It’s better to eat these foods and chia seeds at different times.2. Packaged fruit juices

Adding chia seeds to packaged juices might sound tasty, but many store-bought juices have lots of added sugar and preservatives. These can cause blood sugar spikes and cancel out some of the good effects of chia seeds. Instead, try chia seeds with fresh fruit juice or just plain water.

3. Heavy dairy products

Full-fat cream and other heavy dairy products slow digestion. When combined with chia seeds, this can make you feel heavy or bloated and stop your body from getting all the nutrients from chia seeds. Try lighter dairy options or plant-based milk instead.4. Citrus fruits

Citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits are very acidic. Combined with chia seeds’ high fiber, this might cause bloating or acid reflux for some people. Pair chia seeds with milder fruits like bananas or apples to avoid discomfort.5. Alcohol

Alcohol dehydrates you, but chia seeds soak up water and swell. Mixing the two can upset your digestion and reduce nutrient absorption. Drink chia seeds with water or herbal teas for the best effect.6. Caffeinated drinks

Caffeine also causes dehydration. Eating chia seeds with coffee or tea might lead to tummy troubles and prevent you from getting the full benefits of chia seeds. Stick to non-caffeinated drinks when having chia seeds.7. Spicy foods

Spicy foods can irritate your stomach.

Since chia seeds swell in your stomach, eating them with spicy meals might worsen heartburn or acid reflux. Choose mild foods with chia seeds instead.8. Dry ingredientsChia seeds soak up water and turn into a gel. Eating them dry or without enough liquid can cause choking or digestion problems. Always soak chia seeds in water, milk, or a plant-based drink before eating.9. Processed foods

Processed foods have additives and unhealthy fats that reduce chia seeds’ health benefits. Eating chia seeds with processed snacks won’t help much. Choose whole, fresh foods for the best results.Also read | 11 things you shouldn't put in the microwave but probably do