Chia water with lemon is the new trend on TikTok. Does it really work?

“Drinking my ‘tadpole water’ and hoping to be in shape by Thursday,” says one TikTok user in a video that has already racked up 1.4 million views. For those worried, she’s not drinking a glass full of frog larvae, but rather a mixture of water, lemon juice and chia seeds, dubbed “tadpole water,” the latest weight-loss hack.

“I can guarantee it works,” says TikToker Mariah Padilla. “But does it taste good? No. The texture is weird and the flavor is weird. It makes you gag… but it’s worth it.” Padilla says she lost seven pounds in just three days by drinking the concoction daily — and the trend is catching on.

On TikTok, “tadpole water” has already garnered more than 51 million related posts, with users saying the drink makes them feel fuller for longer, helping them reduce their calorie intake. “Me and my ‘tadpole water’ against the world,” comments one enthusiast.

Chia seeds, which are added in smoothies or acai bowls, have been a staple in the wellness world for some time now. But what does science have to say about this new weight loss fad?

“Chia seeds are rich in nutrients that can offer several health benefits,” published Harvard Health recently reported that they are high in fiber, which aids digestion, and are one of the best plant-based sources of heart-healthy omega-3s. They also contain a significant amount of protein and several vitamins, including antioxidants.

As for weight loss claims, chia seeds can absorb up to 12 times their weight in water, which explains their frog-egg-like appearance. This makes you feel fuller for longer, as they take up space in the stomach and the soluble fiber slows down digestion.

Lemon juice, rich in vitamin C, further enhances the benefits – strengthening the immune system, improving iron absorption, aiding digestion and promoting skin health.

@___rositafresitaaa Don’t forget to let them sit for atleast 30min. I leave mine overnight to drink on an empty stomach #tadpole #chia #water #snatched #fypage ♬ original sound – knifydesignpro

While chia seeds are very nutritious, the Cleveland Clinic warns that drinking this mixture of water and lemon juice “is not a substitute for a balanced diet – it is just a trick that can be used occasionally.”

The gelatinous properties of the seeds can also pose a choking risk, so experts recommend soaking them for 15 to 30 minutes before consuming them.

Some users have reported unwanted side effects. If your body isn’t used to a high-fiber diet, the drink may cause digestive discomfort. “The last time I ate or drank something with chia seeds in it, I couldn’t get out of the bathroom,” one user commented on Padilla’s video.

The good news is that you can enjoy the benefits of chia seeds without having to drink “tadpole water.” Just add them to your meals and drink plenty of water. And if your goal is to lose a few pounds, you might want to cut back on the amount of food you eat. It’s not exactly a trick, but it’s something we know really works.