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Is papaya safe during pregnancy? Gynaecologist shares the benefits and risks of eating this fruit
Lifestyle

Is papaya safe during pregnancy? Gynaecologist shares the benefits and risks of eating this fruit

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Pregnancy is a time of joy and excitement, but it also means paying close attention to what you eat for your own and the baby’s well-being. This fruit is rich in minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants. Still, there is always a debate about whether it is safe to eat papaya during pregnancy.

Papaya is believed to be heat-inducing and pregnant women are often told to avoid it. (Adobe Stock)

Papaya is a very healthy fruit. It contains a lot of folate, potassium, and fibre. It is also a good source of vitamin C, which helps keep your immune system strong and supports your baby’s growth during pregnancy. “Papaya can help with digestion, easing common problems such as constipation, bloating, and heartburn”, Dr Sonamm Tiwari, Consultant Gynaecologist and Obstetrician at Hiranandani Hospital Vashi, tells Health Shots.

While papaya has many benefits, it’s important to know its risks during pregnancy. Dr Tiwari warns: “The enzyme papain in papaya can cause uterine contractions, which may lead to miscarriage or preterm labour”. Unripe or semi-ripe papaya is even riskier, as it can cause the amniotic sac to rupture, resulting in a loss of amniotic fluid that can harm the feotus.

Dr Tiwari further says that “pregnant women should be cautious, especially in the later stages of pregnancy, when risks can increase. Expectant mothers should stay informed about these risks as they make dietary decisions.”

Is unripe papaya better than ripe papaya during pregnancy?

Eating papaya during pregnancy requires caution. Papaya contains phytoestrogens, natural compounds that can mimic estrogen in the body. Even ripe papayas may disrupt hormones and potentially cause problems such as low birth weight or developmental issues for the baby. Dr Tiwari advises, “It is important to be careful and eat papaya in moderation.”

Should you totally avoid papaya during pregnancy?

According to Dr Tiwari, the answer is “not necessarily”. If you still want to enjoy this tropical fruit, the expert shares some tips on how to do so safely:

  • Choose fully ripe papayas: Unripe papayas have much higher levels of papain compared to ripe ones, making ripe papayas a safer option for pregnant women.
  • Practice moderation: “If you decide to eat papaya, limit yourself to no more than 1 cup of fully ripe fruit per day,” the doctor says. Pay attention to your body; if you feel any discomfort, stop eating it right away.
  • Consult a healthcare professional: If you have any concerns about eating papaya during your pregnancy, it’s important to talk to your doctor for personalised advice. Every pregnancy is different.

What to do if you accidentally ate papaya during pregnancy?

Mistakes happen. If you accidentally ate papaya, stay calm. Eating a small amount usually won’t cause harm. “Watch for any unusual symptoms, such as allergic reactions, stomach problems, or uterine contractions”, shares the doctor. If you notice anything unusual or have concerns, contact your healthcare provider. They can support you through this.

(Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.)

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5 hacks that can keep your tummy healthy: Weight management to eating habits
Lifestyle

5 hacks that can keep your tummy healthy: Weight management to eating habits

by jummy84
written by jummy84

A healthy stomach is crucial for a healthy body. The National Health Service (NHS) has laid out a set of everyday habits that make a surprising difference to how your stomach behaves. Just small adjustments can help your gut settle down, avoid flare-ups, and generally function the way it should. Most of these are not secrets, but the NHS notes that people rarely follow through with these measures. Here are 5 lifestyle tips for a happy, healthy gut

Avoiding heavy dinners before bed helps your gut settle.(Representative image/Unsplash)

Stress hits the stomach harder than people think

The NHS points out that stress does not stay in your head. It lands straight in your stomach. You can feel that twisty, uneasy sensation when something is weighing on you. That is your digestive balance shifting. For some people, stress slows everything down and causes bloating, constipation and a heavy, uncomfortable gut. For others, it speeds digestion up so fast that it sends them running to the bathroom.

Stress can also flare underlying conditions, including irritable bowel syndrome and stomach ulcers. The NHS says reducing stress – even in small, realistic ways – helps digestion stabilise again.

Also read: Does gut bacteria contribute to autism symptoms? Here’s what major scientific review reveals

Daily choices shape how your stomach reacts

The habit weakens the muscle that keeps stomach acid where it belongs. Once that barrier softens, acid shoots back up and triggers reflux. Heartburn becomes the norm. Smoking also heightens the risk of stomach cancer and aggravates other inflammatory gut issues.

Improving eating habits

Eating habits matter just as much. According to the NHS, rushing through meals is one of the biggest mistakes. Slowing down, chewing properly and keeping portions sensible give your digestive system a fighting chance. Eating regular meals, staying hydrated, and avoiding heavy dinners right before bed helps your gut settle.

Also read: Study reveals how analysing natural speech can help in research cognitive decline. Here’s what we know

Weight management is the key

Weight also plays a role. Excess abdominal fat pushes against the stomach, and the NHS says that pressure makes heartburn worse. Losing even a small amount can calm symptoms.

Alcohol becomes a problem when you go too far

Moderate drinking is fine, the NHS says, but binge drinking is not. Those heavy sessions spike acid production, stir up irritation and set off heartburn or other digestive discomforts. The definition is simple: too much alcohol in one go.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

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Salman Khan shows off ripped physique at 59: Secret to his fitness is exercising 6 times, eating 'ghar ka khana'
Lifestyle

Salman Khan shows off ripped physique at 59: Secret to his fitness is exercising 6 times, eating ‘ghar ka khana’

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Salman Khan delighted his fans on Monday, November 3, when he shared a shirtless picture of himself on Instagram, showcasing his ripped physique. “Kuch haasil karne ke liye kuch chhodna padta hai…Yeh bina chhode hai (To achieve something one needs to let go of some things…this is without letting go),” the actor wrote in the caption, hinting that he did not go on extreme diets or workout routines to achieve the physique.

Salman Khan shows off his ripped physique in a new photo.

Also Read | Cardiologist with 40 years of experience shares ‘4 heroes in Indian kitchen’ that are better than any supplement

So, what is the secret to Salman Khan’s fitness? In a March 2025 interview with Live Mint, the Bollywood superstar’s trainer, Rakkesh R Uddiyar, who has been working with him for over 20 years, shared several details about his fitness regimen, from his workout routine to his diet chart. Let’s find out.

The secret to Salman Khan’s physique

According to Rakesh, the actor does not delve into fancy routines; rather, he keeps things traditional by going for an ‘old-school, typical bodybuilding regime called the giant set.’ This routine, according to Salman’s trainer, is called a HIIT workout, with no rest, and he does it with the AC always turned off.

“He performs about 10 different variations of chest exercises, such as inclines, push-ups, fly and more. We start with one exercise, and he moves to the next without a break. The only rest he takes is when walking from one exercise to another. He doesn’t do heavy weightlifting but focuses on volume training. He will drink water in between,” the fitness coach revealed.

The actor doesn’t believe in spending hours at the gym. Rather, he takes about 30 seconds of a break between each exercise, which, according to Rakesh, is the time needed to walk from one exercise to the next, and wraps up his HIIT routine within 45 minutes to 1 hour. “HIIT makes you sweat, tires you out faster and burns more calories in a shorter time,” the coach explained.

The secret to Salman Khan's incredible physique. (Google Gemini )
The secret to Salman Khan’s incredible physique. (Google Gemini )

What is Salman Khan’s routine?

Not just a workout, the actor also follows a disciplined lifestyle to complement his fitness routine. According to the trainer, he wakes up early in the morning, followed by a fasted cardio. Then, he does weight training whenever he finds time. “Without weight training and cardio, he won’t sleep,” Rakesh added.

Additionally, Salman works out 6 days a week with one day of rest. Though when he is shooting, the actor does take a break from cardio, but never misses out on weight training.

‘He only eats home-cooked food…’

As for his meals, the actor follows a 5 meals a day diet plan, which includes porridge, eggs, and fruits in the morning, followed by home-cooked food, either fish or chicken, in the afternoon. Rakesh added, “He only eats home food, cooked by his mother. No matter what food you bring him, he would say, ‘Ghar ka khana do. Mummy ne jo banaya wahi khana lagao. Wahi khaunga (I will eat home-cooked food, made by my mom)’. Salman takes some rice and prefers more vegetables. His salads are a priority.”

As for cheat meals, the actor enjoys them once a week, but never exceeds his intake of 2,000 calories. As for his favourite, it is biryani.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

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Eating oats for breakfast every day? Dietitian says eating too much oatmeal can cause gas and bloating
Lifestyle

Eating oats for breakfast every day? Dietitian says eating too much oatmeal can cause gas and bloating

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Oatmeal makes a filling and high-fiber breakfast, there’s no doubt. But if you have made a habit of eating just oats every morning, it may be time to bring variety on the plate. Oats are a type of cereal grain that taste great with milk, fruits, seeds and nuts, but eating them every day may come with its side effects for certain people.

Here’s why eating oats every day may not be good.(Adobe Stock)

Is it good to eat oats every morning?

Here are five reasons to consider changing your breakfast routine, according to Dr Pavithra N Raj, Chief Dietitian at Manipal Hospital.

1. Gluten sensitivity

Are oats entirely gluten-free? Oats do not contain gluten, but they are often processed in factories that also process grains containing gluten, such as wheat, barley, and rye. People can accidentally pick up gluten through cross-contamination. This is a problem for anyone with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. “People with these conditions should choose certified gluten-free oats to reduce the risk of adverse reactions,” Dr Pavithra N Raj, Dietitian, tells Health Shots. Eating non-certified oats can often lead to discomfort, inflammation, and other health issues. If you are sensitive to gluten, talk to a healthcare professional before adding oats to your diet.

2. Flatulence and digestive distress

Oats are known for their high fiber content, which is good for digestion. However, if you’re not used to eating a lot of fibre, consuming too much oatmeal can cause gas and bloating. “Instead of making oats a daily choice, it’s better to increase your fiber intake gradually. Start with small portions and see how your body responds,” says the dietitian. This way, you can enjoy the benefits of oats without experiencing uncomfortable side effects from suddenly eating too much fibre.

3. Mineral absorption issues

Oats have phytic acid, which can block your body from absorbing important minerals like calcium, iron, and zinc. If you eat oats for breakfast regularly, it may not be beneficial for your overall nutrient intake. “Soaking or fermenting your oats before cooking can reduce their phytic acid levels,” shares Dr Pavithra. This helps your body absorb more nutrients. However, it does make your morning routine a bit more complicated. It takes extra time to prepare a quick oats breakfast.

4. Weight gain

Oats can help with weight management, but overeating can cause weight gain. “They contain 379 calories per 100 grams, so it’s easy to lose track of how much you eat, especially with large bowls of fruit,” says the expert. To manage your calorie intake, pay attention to your portion sizes. Instead of filling a big bowl each morning, try mixing in other breakfast options, such as smoothies, yoghurt parfaits, or veggie omelettes.

5. Nutrient deficiency

Oats are a healthy food, but they do not give you all the nutrients your body needs. If you only eat oats for breakfast, you may miss out on important nutrients. Dr Pavithra points out: “While oats are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, it is important to have a variety of foods for well-rounded nutrition.” Including fruits, vegetables, and proteins can make your breakfast more balanced.

Are oats healthy to eat every day?

Oats have many health benefits, but it’s important to eat them in moderation. Try including oats 2-3 times a week, rather than every day. This way, you can enjoy their benefits without experiencing any downsides. Here are some key health benefits of oats:

  1. Packed with essential nutrients: Oats are packed with nutrients. They contain a significant amount of fibre, iron, B vitamins, and important minerals. This makes them a great addition to a healthy diet.
  2. Promote heart health: Oats can help lower harmful cholesterol levels, making them a heart-healthy choice when eaten in moderation. The soluble fibre beta-glucans in oats are especially beneficial for improving heart health.
  3. Sustain energy levels: “Oats give you steady energy because they contain complex carbohydrates. This makes them a good choice for breakfast, especially if you need lasting energy during busy mornings”, says the expert.
  4. Assist with blood sugar control: Oats have a low glycemic index, which helps maintain steady blood sugar levels. This is especially important for individuals who are at risk of developing diabetes.
  5. Boost digestive health: Oats are rich in soluble fibre, particularly beta-glucans, which can help enhance digestive health. This fibre supports regular bowel movements and helps prevent constipation.

What is the best way to eat oats for breakfast?

To enjoy oats without going overboard, use a balanced approach. You can enjoy overnight oats a few times a week by mixing them with yoghurt, chia seeds, and colourful fruits. On other days, try smoothies or vegetable-packed egg dishes for a healthier option.

(Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.)

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Victoria Beckham had 'really honest' eating disorder chat with daughter Harper
Celebrity News

Victoria Beckham had ‘really honest’ eating disorder chat with daughter Harper

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Victoria Beckham had a “really honest” conversation with her daughter about her eating disorder.

Victoria Beckham discussed her eating disorder with her daughter

The 51-year-old fashion designer spoke about her struggles for the first time in her new eponymous Netflix series but before the documentary aired, she was keen to address the topic with 14-year-old Harper.

She told the Mail on Sunday newspaper: “We just had a really honest conversation, and I explained that when you have issues with food, it is all consuming.

“It is sad. It’s a very lonely place.

“I thought it was important that she heard it from me before she saw it at the theatre.”

Victoria hopes the teenager enjoys a “really healthy relationship” with food and admitted it is a subject they have discussed regularly because she knows it can be a big issue for young girls.

She said: “We’ve actually talked about food for quite some time, because the one thing that doesn’t seem to change is that little girls think a lot about food as they’re growing up, and when their bodies are changing and when they’re going through puberty.

“And my wish for Harper is that she has a really healthy relationship with food, and that she eats healthily. We all want to treat ourselves as well, but it’s about balance. Harper’s also very fit and plays a lot of sport, but we’ve talked about food before, because that is a conversation that’s flying around at school.”

The documentary highlights the scrutiny the former Spice Girls singer – who also has Brooklyn, 26, Romeo, 23, and 20-year-old Cruz with husband David – has faced over her weight, including being weighed live on TV by Chris Evans on TFI Friday just two months after she’d given birth to her first child.

And while Victoria was “hurt” by the stunt, she admitted her kids were particularly appalled.

She said: “All of the kids were really, really shocked with what they saw in that documentary.

“It wouldn’t happen now. And the truth is, it really hurt. Words can really hurt people – I always say this to the children.

“Words are so powerful, and you really have to choose your words carefully. And I’ve never talked about this before.”

Victoria hopes speaking out about her struggles will help other people.

She said: “I never want to look like I’m complaining. I’ve always just taken it on the chin. I was always told to take the high ground and I think that’s something that we’ve always lived by.

“But now seemed like the right time. It’s a very different world now, and I think that lots of women can relate to what I was talking about. I was ashamed of it, you know. You become very good at hiding those things and lying.

“And I was nervous to talk about it. Of course I was, because people have been talking about my weight since I was really young, even before I was famous. “But I now have a young daughter, and I think that talking about things like this are really, really important.

“We’re so much more aware of mental health. And, you know, I hope people will listen to me.”




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Are you eating sprouts the wrong way? Nutritionist explains how common mistakes can make this healthy snack unhealthy
Lifestyle

Are you eating sprouts the wrong way? Nutritionist explains how common mistakes can make this healthy snack unhealthy

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Sprouts are often hailed as a superfood – tossed into salads or chaats, blended into smoothies, or eaten raw for their crunch and “clean” health appeal. Many believe that eating them uncooked preserves nutrients and boosts digestion. But is this popular health habit really as beneficial as it seems? Turns out, not quite!

The nutritionist shares healthier ways to consume sprouts.(Unsplash)

Also Read | Nutritionist shares the ultimate dal guide for maximum health benefits: Best time to eat, who should avoid, and more

Khushi Chhabra, a holistic health nutritionist and diabetes educator, explained why eating raw sprouts might not be as healthy as it seems – and why they’re best consumed cooked. In an Instagram video posted on October 4, the nutritionist breaks down why the craze for eating raw sprouts is more fad than fact, how it can impact your gut and digestion, and shares healthier ways to enjoy sprouts for maximum nutritional benefit.

How eating raw sprouts can be unhealthy

According to Khushi, “Sprouts are one of the most nutrient-dense foods because they have protein, fibre, and vitamins. But a lot of people get bloating, constipation, and gas when they eat raw sprouts.” She further mentions that sprouts are rich in fibre, enzymes, antioxidants, vitamin C, folate, and around three to four grams of protein per 100 grams. However, they are higher in carbohydrates than proteins – about 60 – 65% – hence, overeating is not ideal. She also explains, “Raw sprouts can cause bloating, gas, and even constipation because they’re hard to digest and may carry bacteria when eaten uncooked.”

Also Read | Nutritionist warns ‘1 in 28 women face breast cancer risk’; shares 6 foods science links to lower cancer chances

What’s the right ways to eat sprouts

Khushi recommends steaming or lightly sauteing sprouts before eating them, as this breaks down tough fibres that are harder to digest. She suggests, “Add heating spices like ginger, black pepper, cumin, and rock salt as they help in digestion and keep your gut happy.” According to the nutritionist, practising portion control is key – about half to one cup is sufficient for most people to reap the benefits without overdoing it. Lastly, she advises pairing sprouts with pure protein sources like paneer, curd, or eggs to balance the meal.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. It is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

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Archana Puran Singh's son Ayushmaan Sethi recalls eating Katy Perry's leftover cake at Karan Johar's office
Bollywood

Archana Puran Singh’s son Ayushmaan Sethi recalls eating Katy Perry’s leftover cake at Karan Johar’s office

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Bollywood actor Archana Puran Singh’s latest vlog saw her, along with her family and celebrity food vlogger Kunal Vijaykar, on a delicious quest to find the best Maharashtrian cuisine in Mumbai. But the fun took a surprising turn when her son, Ayushmaan Sethi, dropped a quirky revelation, that he once ate Katy Perry’s leftover cake after a star-studded Karan Johar party.

Archana Puran Singh’s son Ayushmaan Sethi recalls eating Katy Perry’s leftover cake.

How Ayushmaan Sethi ate Katy Perry’s leftover cake

While enjoying Maharashtrian delicacies, Archana quipped to Kunal, “You are just having leftovers. We have just left the leftovers for you.” Hearing this, Ayushmaan casually revealed, “I remember eating Katy Perry’s leftover cake.” Archana paused for a moment before Kunal jumped in, asking in disbelief, “Katy Perry’s leftover? How?”

Ayushmaan explained, “Yes, you heard me right. I ate Katy Perry’s leftover cake. When I was working at Dharma Productions with Karan Johar, he hosted a huge party at his house where Katy Perry was present. The cake-cutting happened past midnight, so very few people ate it. The next day, he sent the leftover cake to the office and said, ‘Jisko bhi khaana hai khaa lo’ (anyone can eat). I sat down and ate it.”

About Archana Puran Singh’s son

In one of their vlogs, Ayushmaan shared that he had always excelled academically, securing the first rank in his class in both his 10th and 12th grades. He revealed that he applied to an Ivy League college and was accepted, but turned down the opportunity to pursue acting instead of further academics. Archana also revealed that her son continues to attend auditions for web series and films, facing multiple rejections along the way.

About Archana Puran Singh’s vlogs

Archana’s vlogs offer candid glimpses into her personal life, featuring her husband, actor Parmeet Sethi, their sons Aaryamann and Ayushmaan Sethi, and Aaryamann’s fiancée, actress Yogita Bihani. The family explores cuisines across Mumbai, indulging in food challenges, restaurant hunts, and travel adventures. The vlogs capture humour, warmth, and family camaraderie, making them a favourite among fans.

On the work front, Archana was last seen in The Great Indian Kapil Show and in Karan Johar’s film Nadaaniyaan, starring Ibrahim Ali Khan and Khushi Kapoor in lead roles.

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What is sustainable diet? Doctor shares 8 practical tips to stay healthy: Seasonal veggies, smart eating order and more
Lifestyle

What is sustainable diet? Doctor shares 8 practical tips to stay healthy: Seasonal veggies, smart eating order and more

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Updated on: Sept 06, 2025 09:15 pm IST

A sustainable diet is not restrictive, and instead supports long-term health by being realistic. Know how you can follow a sustainable diet. 

There are a lot of diets trending lately that people are very quick to adopt. But one of the concerns with these quick-fix diets is the lack of longevity. Many get tired or give up midway because it feels too confining. Commonly, fad diets are too ambitious, cutting a number of different food groups, but the real solution lies in balance, moderation, and mindful choices that can be sustained in the long run. The way forward is adopting a diet which is enduring and, most importantly, realistic.

Diet rich in leafy greens and veggies keep you healthy.(Shutterstock)

ALSO READ: Having dark chocolate while on diet? Dietician shares 4 tips to enjoy it without derailing your weight loss goals

Dr Aparna Santhanam, dermatologist and holistic wellness coach, told HT Lifestyle that a sustainable diet helps to keep up with dieting for years as it’s not restrictive.

She explained, “A sustainable diet is not a short-lived food plan but a way of eating that you can enjoy and maintain for years. It focuses on balance, variety, and moderation, rather than rigid restrictions. The beauty of sustainable eating is that it not only protects long-term health but also makes daily meals more enjoyable, practical, and kind to the planet.”

Further, she highlighted how in the Indian food culture, where food is respected, sustainable eating is viewed as a way of building a natural habit to nourish the body.

Dr Santhanam shared 8 tips, demonstrating how to follow a sustainable diet:

1. Prioritise non-processed foods

Makhana is great for weight loss.(Pixabay)
Makhana is great for weight loss.(Pixabay)
  • Prioritise whole, minimally processed foods in the form of fresh fruits, vegetables, dals, and whole grains keep you fuller for longer.
  • For example, roasted chana or Makhana makes a far better snack swap nutritionally and sustainability-wise wise than a bag of store-bought potato chips.

2. Ensure smart eating order

Add darker greens to your salads. (Shutterstock)
Add darker greens to your salads. (Shutterstock)
  • Start meals with fibre-rich foods like salads or sautéed vegetables, then move to protein (dal, paneer, fish, eggs), and finish with carbs, which are largely grain-based in the Indian context.
  • This helps control sugar spikes, improves satiety, and keeps energy levels steady.

3. Adopt portion control

Serve your food in smaller plates. (Freepik)
Serve your food in smaller plates. (Freepik)
  • Instead of cutting out favourite foods, enjoy them in smaller servings. Sharing a dessert at dinner is both healthier and more satisfying.
  • At home, use smaller plates and bowls that visually cue abundance.

4. Add more proteins

Tofu is a veg protein source. (Pexels)
Tofu is a veg protein source. (Pexels)

• Add more plant-based proteins.

  • Mix in dals, sprouts, beans, and tofu regularly. This balances nutrition while reducing dependence on heavy meats.

5. Eat local and seasonal produce

Carrot is a popular seasonal veggie in winter.(Adobe stock )
Carrot is a popular seasonal veggie in winter.(Adobe stock )
  • Choose what’s naturally available, like mangoes in summer and carrots in winter, for freshness, better taste, and higher nutrition.
  • It is vital to stay attuned to nature’s seasonal rhythms.

6. Reduce food waste creatively

You can make rolls out of leftover sabzi.(Adobe stock)
You can make rolls out of leftover sabzi.(Adobe stock)
  • Yesterday’s dal can become dal paratha, or extra sabzi can be rolled into a whole-wheat wrap, and leftover rice can be made into cutlets with vegetables.
  • It’s fun and nourishing.

7. Stay hydrated wisely

Herbal teas like Chamomile and ginger tea have low-calorie content.(Pexels)
Herbal teas like Chamomile and ginger tea have low-calorie content.(Pexels)
  • Replace sugary sodas with plain water.
  • The other option is light herbal teas for long-term metabolic health.

8. Make your plates balanced

  • An ideal Indian meal could look like this: start with a bowl of kachumber salad (fibre), followed by a serving of dal (plant protein and fibre), one dry sabzi like beans or bhindi (fibre + micronutrients), and a small portion of brown rice or jowar roti (complex carbs with additional fibre).
  • This mix ensures satiety, steady energy release, and a full spectrum of nutrients.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

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How not to consume chia seeds? From eating them dry to excessive quantity, a nutritionist shares 5 warnings | Health
Lifestyle

How not to consume chia seeds? From eating them dry to excessive quantity, a nutritionist shares 5 warnings | Health

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Chia seeds are widely known for their weight loss benefits, loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, protein, and antioxidants. They are easy to mix into smoothies, yogurt, or overnight oats, making them a quick option. But while they offer impressive health benefits, there is a right and wrong way to eat them. If you are not careful, chia seeds can cause bloating, constipation, or even choking, especially when eaten dry or in large quantities. Certain health conditions may also make them risky. Wondering how not to consume chia seeds? Dietician Gauri Anand shares certain important warnings to keep in mind. From how much to eat to how to prepare chia seeds safely, here is what you should avoid to get the most out of this tiny yet powerful seed.

Chia seeds can cause these side effects! (Adobe Stock)

How not to consume chia seeds?

Here are 5 ways to avoid eating chia seeds, otherwise, they can lead to health risks:

1. Eating chia seeds dry or without soaking

One of the most common mistakes people make with chia seeds is eating them dry. These seeds are incredibly absorbent and can soak up 10–12 times their weight in water.

“When consumed without soaking or adequate fluid, they start absorbing moisture inside your body and may expand in the throat or stomach, leading to choking risk or discomfort,” explains dietician and lifestyle coach Gauri Anand to Health Shots. This is one of the most dangerous chia seed side effects you should be careful of.

Risk of choking and blockage: There have been cases of chia seeds causing blockages in the esophagus when they expand after coming into contact with water post-swallowing. This is especially dangerous for individuals with swallowing difficulties.

Digestive problems: From digestion also dry chia can also be problematic. The outer shell of chia seeds is tough to break down. A 2020 study published in the Journal of Foods found that consuming dry chia can lead to bloating, constipation, or cramping, especially when there is not enough liquid to support the high fibre content.

What to do instead: Soak them! A good ratio is 1 tablespoon of chia seeds to 1/2 to 1 cup of liquid (water, coconut water, almond milk, etc.). Let them soak for at least 2-3 hours, overnight is even better. You can also blend them directly into healthy smoothies or stir them into wet foods like yoghurt, oatmeal, or soup. If the food already contains moisture, soaking separately is not necessary.

2. Consuming too much at once

Yes, chia is healthy, but that does not mean more is better. Gauri Anand warns, “Overeating chia (more than 2 tbsp/25–30 g in one go) can cause constipation, gas, or abdominal pain due to their high fibre.” If your gut is not used to a high-fibre diet, loading up suddenly can cause a lot of discomfort. It is best to start small, just 1 teaspoon.

3. Without enough water

Even if you are not eating chia seeds dry, you still need to drink plenty of fluids. Because of their fibre and absorbent nature, chia seeds draw water from their surroundings, including from your digestive tract.

“To stay safe, chia seeds should always be soaked in water or added to liquid foods like smoothies, yoghurt, or overnight oats, and paired with adequate daily water intake,” advises Gauri. Skipping it can cause bloating, cramping, or even constipation instead of aiding digestion.

Soak chia seed before consuming. (Adobe Stock)
Soak chia seed before consuming. (Adobe Stock)

4. Eating them just before bedtime

Timing matters! While chia seeds offer slow-digesting energy and beneficial fats, eating them right before sleep may cause problems. Their fibre content can slow digestion, leading to gas, heaviness, or even nighttime trips to the bathroom due to the gel-like mass they form when hydrated. Therefore, it is better to enjoy your chia earlier in the day, for breakfast or a midday snack.

5. If you have certain health conditions

Chia seeds are not for everyone. If you are taking blood thinners or blood pressure medication, be cautious. “Since chia has natural blood-thinning properties, it may increase bleeding risk if you are on anticoagulant or blood pressure medications,” explains Gauri.

They can also lower blood sugar levels, which may interfere with diabetes medications. Plus, individuals with digestive conditions like IBS or swallowing disorders may find chia seeds aggravating rather than helpful due to their high fibre and expanding properties.

In such cases, chia should only be consumed in moderation and ideally after a doctor’s advice.

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Val and Breezy Griffith Share Their SkinnyDipped Snacking Secrets and Why Stars Are Eating Them Up
TV & Streaming

Val and Breezy Griffith Share Their SkinnyDipped Snacking Secrets and Why Stars Are Eating Them Up

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Snack time! Mother-daughter duo Val and Breezy Griffith founded SkinnyDipped to create better-for-you treats that don’t skimp on indulgence — and they’ve already won over fans like Kim and Kourtney Kardashian, Olivia Munn, Chace Crawford, Camila Mendes, Mark Wahlberg, and Tyler Cameron.

“Food has always been my love language. … It brings people together. … A delicious meal or snack becomes the centerpiece of conversation and laughter, whether at a family gathering, or just a moment shared between friends,” Val tells ET. 

With that philosophy in mind, the two set out to spread joy far and wide through noshing.

SkinnyDipped

“Our snacks are thinly, or skinny, dipped. … We wanted to offer the perfect balance of healthy and delicious, plus sweet and salty,” she adds.

It’s no wonder why their whole roasted almonds and cashews dipped in chocolate or yogurt, and peanut butter cups made with real peanut butter and caramel, have earned A-list approval. 

“They satisfy cravings without the guilt. … We focus on eating real, whole foods in moderation, and try to avoid ultra-processed foods as much as possible,” Breezy says.

“We’ve always believed that the kind of food we whip up and share with our loved ones should be made available to everyone,” she continues while celebrating the release of their Pumpkin Spice Almonds.

SkinnyDipped

In addition to enjoying their favorite nutritious dishes, the duo prioritizes wellness in their daily routines. 

“I swear by getting on the Peloton four times a week, doing a few cold plunges weekly, and walking as much as I can. … I also carve out moments to pause, breathe, and find stillness,” Val shares.

As for Breezy’s regimen? “I try to fit in movement, whether it’s a workout, or taking calls while walking. I cold plunge when I can and spend as much time outdoors in nature as possible.”

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