When a gastroenterologist shares their personal dietary habits, it’s a window into evidence-based gut health practice. A California-based gut specialist recently shared not just what he recommends to his patients, but what he personally eats to keep his own digestive system in top condition.
The focus? Three specific seeds — chia seeds, flaxseeds, and basil seeds — which he incorporates into his daily diet for their gut-cleansing and gut-nourishing properties. Here’s exactly how he uses them, based on what he’s shared publicly.
For chia seeds, the specialist mixes one to two tablespoons into almond milk or yoghurt and lets them soak overnight. In the morning, he adds fresh berries for added flavour and antioxidants. This simple routine provides soluble fibre that feeds his gut bacteria, regulates blood sugar, and supports regular bowel movements.
For flaxseeds, he uses one tablespoon of ground flaxseeds mixed into oatmeal or blended into a smoothie, and he does this three to four times a week rather than every day. This provides a regular dose of anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids and fibre without overdoing it. The key, he emphasises, is always to grind the seeds before use.
For basil seeds, he combines them with chia seeds in oatmeal, almond milk, or almond yoghurt. The two seeds work well together, each contributing their own soluble fibre benefits in a single convenient meal. He describes basil seeds as “even cooler” than chia seeds due to their rapid swelling and their Ayurvedic heritage.