If your FYP hasn’t shoved the “internal shower” down your throat yet, here’s the gist: millions of TikTokers are stirring up giant glasses of water loaded with chia seeds and lemon juice, chugging it down, and promising it’ll flush out your gut like a drain cleaner for your colon.
The so-called “internal shower” is fiber on steroids—thanks to chia seeds’ ability to swell up and turn into a slimy gel that’s supposed to push, sweep, and ‘detox’ your insides. Influencers rave about flatter stomachs, ‘miracle poops,’ and glowing skin. It’s got over 300 million views under the #InternalShower tag.
But before you turn your kitchen into a gut cleanse lab, here’s the reality check: gastroenterologists say, yes—fiber is good. It keeps things moving, feeds your gut bacteria, and helps you poop like a champ. But downing huge amounts in one go? Not so brilliant.
“There’s nothing magic about a chia bomb,” says Dr. Will Bulsiewicz, a gut health MD and author of Fiber Fueled. “If your body isn’t used to this much fiber at once, you might just end up with bloating, cramping, and gas. A slow increase is always better.” Source: Healthline
Bottom line? If you love chia, go for it. Fiber’s your friend. But the “internal shower” is just rebranded old-school advice: eat your fiber, hydrate, and your gut will thank you—no viral challenge required. Next time someone tries to sell you a miracle cleanse, just smile, sip your water, and maybe grab an apple instead.
