As a gut doctor, here are five easy steps I use to transform chia seeds into a potent anti-inflammatory

Recently, gastroenterologist Dr. Saurabh Sethi revealed a straightforward method for transforming chia seeds into a potent anti-inflammatory. In a YouTube Shorts post, he said, “I am a gut doctor, and here is how I turn chia seeds into an anti-inflammatory powerhouse in five simple steps.”

In his own words:

*In a dish, add two teaspoons of chia seeds, which contain around 10 grams of fiber and aid in good bowel motions and digestion.

*You may add whatever milk you choose, even half a cup of unsweetened almond milk. This facilitates the chia’s expansion into a smooth, pudding-like consistency.

*Add walnuts and crushed cinnamon. Walnuts include Omega-3s, which are essential for gut and brain health, while cinnamon aids with blood sugar regulation.

*Naturally sweetened with honey, berries, or apple pieces. You will get prebiotic fiber and antioxidants. Put it in the fridge for two hours, or better yet, overnight. It thickens into a tasty pudding that is good for your stomach.

Does it work?

Chia seeds contain around 10 grams of soluble fiber per two tablespoons, according to Dt. Amreen Sheikh, head dietitian at KIMS Hospitals in Thane, who spoke to IndianExpress.com. This fiber becomes a gel when soaked, which promotes regular bowel movements, softens feces, and aids with digestion. It keeps you feeling full for hours and cleanses your intestines naturally,” Sheikh explained.

She went on to say that soaking chia seeds is crucial because it causes them to swell, which facilitates digestion and nutritional absorption. Almond milk, cow’s milk, or any other plant-based substitute may be used. Almond milk gives the pudding a subtle nutty flavor and adds creaminess without adding excessive fat.

Why include walnuts with cinnamon?

Sheikh referred to it as a “smart combination,” stating that walnuts are rich in omega-3 fats that are good for the stomach and the brain and that cinnamon helps regulate blood sugar and lower inflammation. “It’s a blend that provides taste and health advantages in a single bite,” Sheikh said.

How can we make it sweeter? Are fruits preferable to honey or sugar?

In addition to offering natural sweetness and antioxidants, fresh fruits like berries or apple slices also include prebiotic fiber, which supports beneficial gut flora. A little honey is good if you want more sweetness, but stay away from refined sugar, Sheikh said.

Are there any ways to increase its effectiveness?

If possible, refrigerate it overnight or for at least two hours. According to Sheikh, this gives chia a thick, pudding-like consistency by allowing it to absorb liquid fully. According to Sheikh, it also makes a cool, anti-inflammatory breakfast or snack that you can cook ahead of time.