What are Chia seeds?
Chia seeds have a very long history as a medicinal plant. Chia seeds were discovered in Mexico and were cultivated by the Aztecs. Today, Chia seeds are grown commercially in Central and South America. They are mainly known as a great source of omega-3 fatty acids.
Due to its medicinal properties, Chia seeds are used by people who have problems with diabetes, high blood pressure, as well as to generally reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke (generally for cardiovascular diseases).
How do Chia seeds work?
Chia seeds contain a large amount of healthy omega-3 fatty acids and dietary fiber. Researchers think that omega-3 fatty acids and fiber may help reduce risk factors for heart disease.
Impact on problems with diabetes
People who have diabetes suffer from heart disease and stroke (cardiovascular diseases) more often than other people. There is some evidence that people with diabetes can reduce those risks by eating bread that contains a specific type of chia seed, called Salba. The amount of Salba seeds needed to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke is 37 grams per day for 12 weeks. This dose appears to lower blood pressure and lower levels of C-reactive protein and von Willebrand factor in the blood. C-reactive protein is a "marker" for inflammation, a process that some researchers believe is responsible for some forms of heart disease. Less C-reactive protein means less inflammation. Von Willebrand factor is one of the blood clotting factors. Less von Willebrand factor can mean smaller clots form, which can cause a heart attack or stroke. However, consuming Salba seeds does not affect all types of heart disease and stroke risk factors. For example, eating Salba seeds in bread is not enough to reduce cholesterol levels.
Impact on metabolic syndrome
Early research shows that consuming 500 fewer calories a day with a drink containing soy protein, nopal, chia seeds, and oats for 2 months can reduce body weight, body mass index, and waist circumference in people with metabolic syndrome. However, people who just reduce their calorie intake have similar results. However, those who drank the beverage containing chia seeds appeared to have lower triglycerides and blood sugar levels, which is an improvement, compared to just reduced calorie intake.
Dosage
The appropriate dosage of Chia seeds depends on several factors, such as the user's age, health status, and several other conditions. At this time, there is not enough scientific information to determine the appropriate dosage for consuming chia seeds. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe for consumption and consumption doses can be very important.
Be consistent and follow the instructions on the product labels and be sure to consult your doctor or pharmacist before use and consumption.
