If you’ve ever experienced browsing TikTok around 3 a.m., don’t worry, you’re not alone. We literally tend to consume all kinds of content on the app. From makeup tutorials and workout videos to easy recipes and life hacks, there’s no doubt that TikTok will always have something to catch your eye.
In fact, there is a trend that has recently emerged on the app, which is making everyone curious. The “Internal shower” drink. People are getting into making and trying this drink because it claims to help with constipation and bloating. Besides that, some videos also claim that it is a way to detox and boost your weight loss efforts.
With more and more videos being uploaded every day, we can’t help but wonder if this drink really helps with weight loss. Is the Internal Shower drink worth it and is it really effective? To find out, we consulted Dr. Amy Lee, a medical doctor with degrees in internal medicine, medical nutrition and obesity medicine.
TikTok’s “inner shower” drink, explained:
According to Dr. Lee, “Once you soak dry chia seeds, they absorb water and increase in size, which explains their gooey texture. It is considered an insoluble fiber, so it is an excellent ingredient to consume daily. »
She adds, “The role of insoluble fiber is to create bulky stools and soften them. In today’s American culture, where the norm is a diet low in fiber and filled with processed foods, it can be difficult to get good insoluble and soluble fiber. Dr. Lee notes, “We find a good combination of fiber in things like fruits and vegetables, but chia seeds are also very high in fiber and even protein. A teaspoon of chia seeds can contain up to 9 grams of dietary fiber. »
She continues, “Colon cleansing and regular bowel movements also help the body eliminate inflammation and by-products, including fat. »
To confirm, Dr. Lee agrees and says “yes, it helps people looking to lose weight.” However, she notes that “if your diet is high in fiber, you’re more likely to eat clean, with lots more fruits and vegetables. »
Finally, she shares that one of the best drinks to drink for weight loss is pure matcha tea. If you want to give your drink a boost, you can try adding chia seeds too. “Matcha powder is a super antioxidant and it has a little caffeine for the added benefit of a nice energy boost,” Dr. Lee concludes.
What are the risks of the “internal shower” drink?
For those looking to detox and lose weight, drinking this miracle drink first thing in the morning is a great way to start the day. “Chia seeds are high in fiber and protein, which helps you feel full and satisfied throughout the day. explains Dr. Lee.
Plus, they’re packed with antioxidants and other nutrients that help boost metabolism and promote healthy digestion. “When combined with water, chia seeds expand and create a gel-like substance that helps cleanse the colon and flush out toxins. »
Dr. Lee recommends that for best results, drink your chia seed drink on an empty stomach and be sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
However, it is best to ensure that you consume this drink once a day. Otherwise, you may experience abdominal pain and discomfort, bloating, and diarrhea.
Other risks include the risk of suffocation from freezing seeds. Drink the mixture in small sips, not at full speed as some videos posted on social media advise. Talk to your healthcare professional before trying it.
What about claims that internal douche drinks can detoxify the body?
Although there are claims that internal douche drinks can flush toxins from the liver, detoxify the body, and cure hangovers, the Poison Control Center has proven these claims to be false. The body detoxifies itself by producing waste products, sweating and urinating. This drink is not a panacea.
Before trying this recipe, check with your doctor if you have any other significant gastrointestinal complaints besides occasional constipation. “Please consult your doctor to ensure that you are also following a healthy diet,” adds Dr. Lee.