Roleplaying choices are fundamentally different from gameplay choices. Using or not using the tadpole powers is a gameplay "choice." But it is a "choice" where the options are either (a) all reward no cost or (b) all cost no reward. As such, it is patently illogical for any reasonable person to "choose" b over a. "Choosing" b over a is a "choice," sure, but it is choosing to deliberately screw yourself over within the game. Therefore, it is no choice at all.
And no, there are no meaningful story consequences to using v. not using the tadpole powers. All consequences are mechanical, and you either get those mechanical benefits or you don't. That's it, and nothing more.
