

However, there are several studies with promising results. There are still limited human clinical trials on the effects of chia seeds in the human body.

In: Go Phillips, Williams PA., editors. Handbook of Hydrocolloids.Cambridge England: Woodhead Publishing Limited 2000 Reference: (Phillips and Wiliams 2000) Phillips GO, Wiliams PA. See table below for content of phytosterols in chia seed oil, compared to other important sources of phytosterols: Source This statement is endorsed by the American Heart Association. As a result, the cholesterol absorption is reduced or blocked and the cholesterol levels in the body reduced importantly. Phytosterols are plant compounds with similar molecular structure as that of Cholesterol, which compete in the digestive system for absorption. Source: National Institutes of Health Report “ The Promising Future of Chia”Ĭhia seeds oil, contain phytosterols. Natural bioactive peptides with ACE-I inhibitory effects (which help prevent hypertension) Kaempferol (flavonoids and phenolic acids)Ĭafeic Acid (flavonoids and phenolic acids)Ĭhlorogenic Acid (flavonoids and phenolic acids) Quercetin (flavonoids and phenolic acids) Myricetin (flavonoids and phenolic acids)Īntioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antithrombotic activities It works inversely with ALA, and therefore, a balanced ratio of ALA to LA is important in maintaining a good health Eicosanoid produced from LA has been associated with CVD and cancerĬ. Inflammatory, hypertensive and thrombotic activityī. Protection against arthritis, autoimmune diseases and cancerĪ. Cardioprotective and hepatoprotective activities by redistributing lipids away from visceral fat and liverĭ. Lowering cholesterol levels, resulting in lower blood pressure and heart-related diseasesĬ. Anti-inflammatory activity helps with prevention of multiple diseases. Antioxidants may protect from the bad consequences by neutralizing the free radicals. Some of the most important phytochemicals found in chia seeds show an important antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Its consequences in human and animal health are expressed in multiple diseases, such as diabetes, arteriosclerosis, thrombosis, inflammation, and various types of cancer. Activity of free radicals in the human body has been widely documented and asserted as a lead cause of oxidative damage to organs and biochemical compounds. Phytochemicals and Plant Compounds on Chia SeedsĪ wide assortment of active ingredients, including fatty acids and phenolic compounds have been identified in chia seeds. Due to its additional content of phenolic acid, chia seeds also help to maintain healthy serum lipid levels. Such essential oils content and ratio, are imperative for absorbing and emulsifying fat-soluble vitamins, A, D, E, and K. They also contain a perfect ratio of Omega 3 to Omega 6 fatty acids (2 to 1). In fact, these seeds are among the richest vegetable sources for essential ALA Omega-3 fatty acids a fatty acid that can not be synthetized by humans and that is needed in our daily. In regards to the oil content, these seeds contain a high oil content (25 – 40% of its weight), with around 18% of its total weight being ALA Omega-3 (Alpha Linolenic Acid). In addition, these seeds contain almost twice the protein concentration of other types of grains. In the same regard, this could prove to be beneficial in terms of muscle tissue regeneration for athletes, weight lifters, and for sports conditioning. Such efficient assimilation can be highly beneficial when rapid development of tissue occurs, such as during significant growth periods in children as well as teens. This is important because it results in rapid transportation to crucial tissues so that the protein can be used more easily by the cells. Along with many nutritional benefits, chia seeds include the ability to be used by individuals who are not able to tolerate gluten or who need to avoid sodium with no adverse side effects.Īs a vital source of protein, chia seeds can be absorbed and digested quite easily. Chia seeds can also be used along with most diets under guidance with your nutritionist or physician.
