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Nutrition & Diet
Question #23243
24 days ago
45

what is sabja seed - #23243

Sai

I am really confused about this thing called sabja seed. I was at a cafe the other day, and they had this drink with sabja seeds in it. The lady was saying how great they are for digestion and everything, but I have no clue what is sabja seed or how they work. I've googled, and all the info is kinda mixed. Like, they kinda look like chia seeds, right? But I'm not totally sure about the benefits. I mean, people say they're good for weight loss, but is there any science behind that? I've been trying to figure out what is sabja seed and if they really help with hydration like some people say. I even bought a pack thinking maybe I'd try it myself, but now I'm a bit worried about possible side effects, you know? Should I be concerned about trying them out if I have a sensitive stomach? Like, if it can mess me up or something? Can someone explain what is sabja seed in simple terms and how it fits into a healthy diet? Any personal experience with this would be really great too!

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Doctors' responses

Sabja seeds, also known as basil seeds or tukmaria, come from the sweet basil plant, Ocimum basilicum. They’re quite similar to chia seeds, which might be why there’s some confusion—they both swell up and form a gel-like coating when soaked in water. Traditionally, sabja seeds have been used in desserts, beverages and culinary creations in several cultures, primarily in South Asia. Regarding their benefits, sabja seeds are praised for their potential digestive properties. They’re rich in fiber, which can support digestive health by promoting regularity and perhaps even soothe the gastrointestinal tract. Some people do argue they’re good for weight management because the fiber can make you feel fuller, but definitive scientific studies specifically linking sabja seeds to weight loss are limited. The hydration aspect is a bit different; when soaked, the water-retentive quality of the seeds might contribute to a feeling of fullness and keeping the body hydrated, but this does not directly increase actual hydration levels in a substantial way beyond what drinking water would provide. As for side effects, generally, they are safe to consume when eaten in typical amounts used in foods. However, if you’ve a sensitive stomach, it’s sensible to start with a small quantity to see how your body reacts. A sudden increase in fiber could potentially lead to digestive discomfort, bloating, or cramping if you’re not used to it. Adding them gradually into your diet could help mitigate such effects. As always, if you have any specific health concerns or conditions, it’s best to consult your primary healthcare provider before incorporating them into your diet. Overall, if used in moderation and combined with a balanced diet, sabja seeds can be a nutritious addition, but they aren’t a miracle solution or replacement for a healthy lifestyle.

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