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Seeds That Form a Gel When Wet

Seeds that form a gel when wet are sought after by those who wish to eat a healthier diet. These seeds have a hydrophilic coating that absorbs water. When the coating becomes saturated with water, it forms a gel. When eaten, the seeds absorb water while in the stomach so you feel full longer. As the seeds pass through the digestive tract, they act like a natural laxative. When separated from the seed by manufacturers, these clear and colorless plant-based gelling agents are called mucilage.

  1. Chia Seeds

    • Chia seeds, from the Salvia hispanica plant, are similar in size to a poppy seed and have a slightly nutty flavor. The seeds can be premixed with nine times the amount of water as seeds, and let set for 30 minutes before mixing in with food. Whole or ground seeds can also be added directly to foods like cereal, snacks, drinks, meals or in baking mixes. Most people are familiar with these seeds from their use in Chia Pets, shaped clay pots that use the chia seeds to grow sprouts.

    Linseed (Flax Seed)

    • Linseed is from the flax plant. Many people grind the seeds to benefit from the nutrients inside them. If swallowed whole, the seeds absorb water and form a gel aiding in digestion.

    Tomato Seeds

    • Tomato seeds also form a gel when they are exposed to water, although this is typically not touted as a health benefit of eating tomatoes. Gardeners are familiar with the gel because they must treat the seeds to remove the gel before they can use the seeds to grow more plants.

    Cress, Psyllium & Arugula

    • Some other plants whose seeds form a gel are cress, psyllium and arugula. These seeds tend to be planted to grow edible sprouts. Because the seeds are gelatinous, meaning they absorb water, they do not need to be soaked before planting. Psyllium is often used in products designed to add fiber to the diet, like Metamucil.

    Warnings

    • It is best to discuss any dietary changes with your doctor before starting a new routine. Even though these seeds have many beneficial qualities to them, they may affect your specific health issues in a negative way. When ingesting seeds that absorb so much water that they create a gel, it is imperative that you drink plenty of water so you don't become dehydrated.

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