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This Man Swallowed Tiny Seed With Water. Was Rushed to the ER

By Zeynab

|

26 June 2025

© Castorly Stock / Pexels

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Can a healthy seed really send you to the ER?

This tiny “superfoodis all over health blogs, packed with nutrients, fiber, and big promises. But for one man, a spoonful of this seed led to a terrifying trip to the ER. And the scariest part? Doctors warn it could happen to anyone who makes the same mistake.

Dry Seeds + Water = Big Trouble

Chia seeds throat blockage
© Doctor Sethi

This man heard that chia seeds were good for digestion. So he swallowed a spoonfuldry. Then chased it with water. A few minutes later, he couldn’t swallow anything. He couldn’t swallow food, water—nothing. Not even his own saliva.

He rushed to the hospital. Doctors found a thick, gel-like lump stuck in his food pipe. Turns out, chia seeds absorb water fast—up to 12 times their weight. If they do that in your throat, it’s a problem.

The man’s seeds swelled before reaching his stomach. They expanded into a sticky, heavy mass. Like wet cement. Dr. Rebecca Rawl, who treated the case, said it was almost like Play-Doh—firm, yet soft enough to block everything.

Doctors used a thin medical tool called an endoscope to remove the clump. It wasn’t easy.

The case was published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology in 2014.

The Right Way to Prepare Chia Seeds

A jar filled of chia seeds
© Castorly Stock / Pexels

Still, there is no need to fear chia seeds. They are high in fiber, omega-3s, and antioxidants. Great for your heart, gut, and energy levels.

Just don’t eat them dry. Here is how to do it right!

Soak First, Eat Safely

© Doctor Sethi

The safest way to eat chia seeds? Let them soak first.

Soak them in milk, water, or juice for 10 to 20 minutes. They will form a soft gel.

Many people add soaked seeds to smoothies, yogurt, or porridge. Some make chia pudding. Just mix with milk, refrigerate, and top with fruit or nuts.

Let the seeds expand in your bowl—not your throat.

This case is rare. But it’s a good reminder: Superfoods aren’t magic. Use them the right way.

And when in doubt—soak it first.

You might also want to read: Can TikTok’s Cola and Fries Hack Really Stop Migraines?

Zeynab

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