Dietitian Dismisses Viral Claims That Miri Cohen’s Chia Cake Causes Bowel Obstruction

Israeli Instagram personality Miri Cohen posted a recipe for a chia-based health cake with frozen mango cubes, milk, gelatin and two tablespoons of maple syrup, and the clip quickly drew hostile reactions online. Some commenters claimed the cake could cause stomach pain, bloating, constipation and even bowel obstruction, with one writing, “It causes bowel obstruction,” and another saying it could be “very dangerous for the stomach.”

The article checked the claims with Dr. Sigal Frishman, the national dietitian for Clalit hospitals, who was enthusiastic about the recipe. She said chia seeds are “very healthy,” rich in dietary fiber that helps regulate digestion and promotes prolonged satiety. She also said they contain omega-3, which helps prevent heart disease and supports blood vessels and the nervous system.

Frishman added that using fresh or frozen fruit in the cake provides additional nutritional benefits, including vitamins that help prevent inflammation and support the immune system. She said the maple syrup is used in a normal, non-significant amount, and that most of the sweetness comes from the fruit itself.

Her conclusion was that the cake is a healthy and recommended recipe, and that the online backlash is unfounded. She said the criticism does not hold up as long as someone is eating a slice rather than the whole cake.