It's taking social media by storm, particularly TikTok and Instagram, and appears to be the definitive solution to abdominal bloating and constipation: we're talking about Internal Shower, a drink made with water, chia seeds, and lemon juice. Formulated and made viral by nutritionist Daryl Gioffre, who presented it as a method for cleansing the body and detoxifying the liver, it has divided public opinion between supporters and skeptics.
Are we talking about yet another wellness fad, or is it a drink that can have real benefits? We asked a trusted expert, biologist and nutritionist.
Is Internal Shower Just Another Social Media Trend?
The answer is yes. "There is no scientific evidence that water, lemon, and chia seeds ‘purify the body' in the way it's claimed on social media," our expert immediately clarifies. We can therefore affirm that the internal shower is yet another viral trend promising a flat stomach, clean intestines, and weight loss.
"The very concept of ‘cleansing the intestines' is misleading. The intestines don't accumulate toxins that need to be ‘washed out,'" our expert clarifies. This is precisely what the excretory organs are for —the liver, kidneys, and intestines. These are true "disposal power plants," whose primary task is to filter and eliminate waste substances to maintain homeostasis, or the internal balance of our body.
It's crucial to remember that the body detoxifies itself through these organs, which we must still provide with the right nutrients like water, fiber, and antioxidants, and certainly doesn't need these "miracle drinks" to be efficient and work at its best.
That said, let's see what's actually inside this mix. The Internal Shower recipe calls for soaking two tablespoons of chia seeds in a glass of water with the juice of a whole lemon. Let the mixture steep for about half an hour, allowing the seeds to release a gel-like substance, and then consume it on an empty stomach.
The most interesting aspect is undoubtedly the presence of chia seeds, small oily seeds rich in fiber, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids, particularly alpha-linolenic acid, which contribute to a healthy heart and brain. When chia seeds come into contact with water, they absorb up to 12 times their weight in liquid, creating a dense, viscous mass. In the intestine, this "gelatin" acts like a mechanical brush, stimulating peristalsis and increasing the volume of stool, facilitating its expulsion.
What Are The Real Benefits of Chia Seeds?
"Chia seeds are truly an interesting food," the nutritionist tells us right away. They're rich in fiber, especially soluble fiber, which, when added to water, forms their characteristic gelatinous substance. They're among the richest plant sources of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly alpha-linolenic acid, which is essential for heart health and fighting systemic inflammation.
They are a precious mine of mineral salts, particularly calcium and magnesium, essential for the correct functioning of the body, and are distinguished by a fair amount of proteins: they provide all nine essential amino acids, a characteristic that makes them particularly recommended for those who follow a diet free or lacking in animal protein sources.
The gel formation due to the presence of soluble fiber can increase the feeling of satiety, promote bowel regularity, and improve stool consistency. "So yes, they can help with mild constipation, but not because they ‘clean' the intestines, but because they provide fiber. You get the same effect with legumes, fruit, vegetables, or oats," explains our expert.
What role does lemon play? The citrus fruit adds flavor, slightly stimulates salivation and gastric secretion, but it has no detoxifying properties. "It provides vitamin C, organic acids, and a little potassium, but it doesn't dissolve fat, magically alkalize the body, or eliminate toxins," the expert points out.
We can therefore state, without fear of contradiction, that the internal shower is simply another "current fad." It's not a miracle drink: it's simply water with fiber and vitamin C. "If a person drinks it and it helps them consume more fluids and fiber, great. But it can't be a shortcut to ‘cleanse the intestines' after overeating."
Furthermore, drinking water with chia seeds is perhaps one of the least creative and delicious ways to consume these precious oily seeds. Exceptionally versatile and best exploited for their gelling properties, they can be used in tastier and more satisfying recipes without wasting their potential. Some examples? Try the famous chia pudding, in which the seeds are soaked in milk or a plant-based drink of your choice until they release their gel. Once you've achieved a pudding-like consistency, simply sweeten to taste, garnish with fresh fruit, cocoa, or cinnamon, and enjoy for breakfast or as a nutritious and filling snack.
You can also add them to overnight oats, the no-cook version of classic oatmeal porridge; create a smoothie bowl by adding them to a fruit, yogurt, and/or oatmeal smoothie, adding texture and a nice fiber boost; or make delicious mini cheesecakes, a perfect light treat even if you're on a diet. Incorporated into doughs to increase the fiber content and add a crunchy touch, they can also be used to make bread, focaccia, and savory muffins.
We can also sprinkle them on salads, cooked vegetable side dishes, creamed soups, and cold soups, adding texture. "In short, there are a thousand more enjoyable ways to use chia seeds—tasty and functional—without relying on miracle drinks that promise nothing," concludes the expert.
Are There Any Contraindications?
In general, chia seeds have no contraindications for healthy individuals, but if you suffer from irritable bowel syndrome or are particularly sensitive, you should be extra careful: too much fiber, especially if consumed abruptly, can cause bloating and cramps. "Remember that chia seeds should always be well hydrated: consuming them dry and in excessive quantities can cause bloating or discomfort," explains the nutritionist.
Lemon can also have some small contraindications: if consumed frequently and in high concentration, it can cause discomfort for those suffering from gastritis or reflux. If the juice is drunk frequently and without rinsing the mouth with water, its acidity can contribute to damaging tooth enamel.
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