Eating Chia Seeds with Flax Seeds: Is it SAFE or Not?

Short Answer: It is generally safe to eat chia seeds and flax seeds together or one after another.

Chia seeds and flax seeds are both healthy foods.

Chia seeds contain fiber, calcium, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids. Flax seeds have fiber, copper, potassium, and antioxidants.

According to Ayurveda, chia seeds and flax seeds have different qualities and effects on the body.

Chia seeds are cooling, moistening, and demulcent, which means they soothe and lubricate the tissues.

Flax seeds are warming, drying, and laxative, which means they stimulate the digestive fire and promote bowel movements.

Ayurveda recommends eating foods that balance your dosha (constitution) and the season.

Therefore, chia seeds are more suitable for pitta dosha and summer season, while flax seeds are more suitable for vata dosha and winter season.

Ayurveda also advises against eating chia seeds and flax seeds together or one after another, as they may cause indigestion, gas, bloating, or diarrhea due to their opposite qualities.

But according to science, there is no evidence that chia seeds and flax seeds are harmful when eaten together or one after another.

In fact, both seeds have proven health benefits, such as improving digestion, stabilizing blood sugar levels, lowering cholesterol levels, and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

However, science also suggests that some people may be allergic or sensitive to chia seeds or flax seeds, or may have difficulty digesting them if they are not soaked or ground before consumption.

As a nutritionist, my advice is to try first.

If after eating chia seeds and flax seeds together you experience any side effects, such as itching, swelling, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or diarrhea, then stop combining them. And if you can tolerate them, then continue.

However, you should be mindful of the quality and quantity of chia seeds and flax seeds you consume.

Because both seeds are high in fiber and omega-3 fats, they may interfere with the absorption of some medications or supplements.

Therefore, you should consult your doctor before adding them to your diet if you have any medical conditions or take any medications or supplements.

You should also limit your intake of chia seeds to no more than 20 grams per day and flax seeds to no more than 50 grams per day.

Whether you eat them together or not, you should always choose organic and fresh chia seeds and flax seeds.

Because organic seeds are free of pesticides and other harmful chemicals that may affect your health. And fresh seeds are less likely to be rancid or contaminated with mold or bacteria that may cause food poisoning.

You can store them in airtight containers in a cool and dark place for up to six months. Do not store them in direct sunlight or near heat sources as they may spoil faster.

Finally, remember that chia seeds and flax seeds are not magic bullets for health. They are only part of a balanced and varied diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and fluids.

To get the most benefits from these seeds, you should also exercise regularly, manage your stress levels, sleep well, and avoid smoking and alcohol.