The Basil Seed Drink From Skinnytaste That’s Going Viral For Weight Loss: Get the Easy Recipe

While we know that drinking water is key for hydration, it can also get monotonous. Rather than turning to sugary, processed beverages like juice or soda, why not try a trendy basil seed drink? The nutrient-packed tonic, made popular on social media by Skinnytaste’s Gina Homolka and other influencers, is an easy way to quench your thirst and boost your fiber intake. 

Aside from improving digestion and helping you feel fuller longer, the herbal sip may even support weight loss. Not convinced to change up your water routine just yet? Keep reading to learn more about basil seed benefits and how to whip up your own nourishing drink at home. 

What is a basil seed drink?

A basil seed drink is made by soaking basil seeds in water, allowing them to expand and form a gelatinous texture similar to that of chia seed water, explains Jennifer Nicole Bianchini, MS, RD, IFNCP, RYT, a functional nutrition specialist at Body to Soul Health. 

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Skinnytaste’s Homolka notes that she uses ZenBasil seeds, which come from a basil plant and “are basically like chia seeds, but they have more fiber.” She adds ½ Tbs. to a large glass of water and waits about five minutes for them to expand before drinking. The seeds have a very mild flavor (some find they even have no taste at all), which makes them easier to drink.

@skinnytaste

A simple trick for more fiber and better gut health? Add basil seeds to your water! 🌱 They’re loaded with prebiotics, omega-3s, and fiber. 1/2 tablespoon has about 4 grams of fiber. #WellnessHack #fiber #HealthyLiving #basilseeds #zenbasil

♬ original sound – Skinnytaste – Healthy Recipes

3 basil seed benefits

To get the benefits of basil seeds, less is more. You only need to consume about 1 to 2 Tbs. a day. The seeds are a good source of minerals, fiber and plant-based omega-3 fatty acids. Here’s how those key nutrients can improve your health:  

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They aid digestion 

Drinking basil seed water a few times a week can support digestion and hydration, thanks to their high fiber content, says Chris Mohr, PhD, fitness and nutrition advisor at Garage Gym Reviews. He advises that daily intake should be balanced with other fiber sources as there are many types of fiber essential for good gut health.

When added to water, basil seeds swell and form a gelatinous substance rich in soluble fiber. “Soluble fiber is known to help slow down digestion, which can help prevent blood sugar spikes, remove cholesterol from the body and feed the good bacteria of the gut, adds Bianchini. 

This supports a balanced and healthy gut microbiome. She adds that 1 Tbs. of basil seeds provides 7 grams of fiber, which is about 20 percent of the amount of fiber most adults need each day.  

They boost weight loss 

Looking to shed a few unwanted pounds? A fiber-rich basil seed drink can help. “The seeds expand in your stomach so you feel full,” says Catherine Gervacio, RND, a registered nutritionist and diet consultant for WOWMD. That means you’ll be less prone to hunger pangs that could derail your healthy eating habits and weight loss goals. 

Research supports this strategy. A study published in the Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that obese adults who consumed sweet basil seed extract daily significantly decreased their body mass index (BMI) within just four weeks.

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They reduce inflammation 

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In addition to fiber, Mohr says basil seeds also have antioxidants (such as flavonoids and polyphenols) and omega-3s. These compounds are essential for reducing inflammation in the body.

According to a study published in the Journal of Nutritional Science, flavonoids are antioxidants that protect against cell-damaging molecules known as free radicals.  “Basil seeds also boast high amounts of protein, micronutrients like magnesium, calcium iron and omega-3 fatty acids that help decrease inflammation in the body,” adds Bianchini. 

How to upgrade your basil seed drink

If you’re looking for even more health benefits, Bianchini suggests adding these ingredients to your basil seed drink:

• Citrus fruits. Lemons, limes or oranges add flavor to basil seed water and deliver a boost of vitamin C.
• Honey. A spoonful of honey naturally sweetens the tonic.
• Mint or ginger. Herbs and spices add a unique flavor profile and have additional anti-inflammatory properties.