“Drinking my tadpole water, hoping to get raptured on Thursday,” posted a TikTok user in a clip that has been viewed 1.4 million times. For those who are worried, he is not willing to down the glass of frog larvae. Instead, it’s a viscous mixture of water, lemon juice, and chia seeds, called the latest weight loss hack.
“I can confirm that it works for weight loss,” said TikToker Mariah Padilla. “Does it taste good? No. The texture is nice and sweet too. It makes me cringe. . . but it is worth it.” Padilla says he lost three pounds after just three days of drinking the mixture every day—and the trend continues.
On TikTok, “tadpole water” has accumulated more than 51 million related posts, with its followers saying that this concoction helps them feel fuller for longer, thus reducing their overall calorie intake. “Me and my tomboy against the world,” said one supporter. Sprinkled into smoothies or atop acai bowls, chia seeds have long been a staple of health. But what does the science say about this weight hack?
“Chia seeds are packed with nutrients that may support many health benefits,” Harvard Health reported recently. The seeds are high in fiber, which aids digestion, and is one of the richest plant-based sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. They also contain a large amount of protein and many vitamins, including antioxidants.
As for weight loss claims, chia seeds can absorb up to 12 times their weight in water, which is why the frog looks like it’s spawning. This may keep a person feeling full longer, according to the Cleveland Clinic, as the seeds take up space in the stomach and the soluble fiber slows digestion. Adding lemon juice to the mix, which is high in vitamin C, only adds to the benefits—boosting the immune system, enhancing iron absorption, aiding digestion, and improving skin health.
Although chia seeds are very nutritious, the Cleveland Clinic cautions that eating them mixed with water and lemon juice “is not an alternative to a healthy diet—just a handy trick that can be used occasionally.” The gelling properties of chia seeds can also be a choking hazard, so experts recommend soaking the seeds for 15-30 minutes before use.
Others have experienced less than desirable side effects. If your gut isn’t used to high-fiber foods, you may find that the drink causes digestive discomfort. “The last time I had chia seed food/drinks I couldn’t stop munching,” one user commented on Padilla’s video.
Fortunately, you can still enjoy the benefits of chia seeds without choking the tadpole. Simply add a sprinkle to your food and enjoy with a large glass of water. And if your goal is still to lose a few pounds, maybe consider limiting how much you eat. Not really a hack, but it has been known to work.
