TikTok “Internal Shower” Detox & What To Try Instead

The latest TikTok nutrition trend known as the “internal shower” has emerged, but is it worth the hype?

If you haven’t already seen it, let me fill you in. A TikTok content creator recently went viral after sharing her natural ‘detox’ drink known as the ‘internal shower’. She claimed that the drink acts as an "internal shower" for your digestive system - clearing out your detoxification pathways and ultimately promoting healthy bowel movements and easing bloat. In just days, the chia seed concoction gained more than 2.3 million views.

So let’s talk about it…

This digestive concoction contains 3 main ingredients….

• Chia seeds: Chia seeds are an excellent source of fiber, packing in almost 10 grams per 2 tbsp. Fiber helps to slow digestion and promote bowel regularity.

• Lemon: Citrus fruit, in particular lemon, is rich in a prebiotic known as pectin. Prebiotics are the ‘energy source’ for the probiotics living in your gut.

• Water: Our bodies are 60% water, so naturally it’s an essential part of our diet. Water helps to flush out unwanted toxins in the form of poop, sweat and urine. Dehydration can also lead to/worsen constipation.

So while yes, all the ingredients support promote digestion and support a healthy gut, they don’t work synergistically together to provide a superior gut clearing experence.

Don’t get me wrong - chia seeds are tiny power houses. But there are so many more delicious ways to reap the benefits without choking down coagulated chia seeds. I personally enjoy adding them to yogurt + oatmeal, turning them into chia seed pudding, or blending them into smoothies!

Bottom line : Unless you generally enjoy the ‘internal shower’, this TikTok trend is a no from me.

Looking for some chia inspiration? Try this recipe instead!