Chia seeds quickly gained popularity after being put on the superfood list, and a new paper supports their benefits by suggesting they may reduce the risk of cancer and high blood pressure.
The findings were published in January 2023 and indicate that flaxseed contains:
- polyunsaturated fatty acids that improve cardiovascular health
- fiber that helps stabilize blood sugar among patients with type 2 diabetes and diseases associated with the gastrointestinal tract
- proteins that could help treat cancer and hypertension
- antioxidants
- antimicrobial properties
What are chia seeds?
Chia seeds come from the Salvia hispanica plant, which is part of the mint family. They are originally from South America and used to be a food source for Mesoamerican cultures before colonization.
A specific feature of chia seeds, besides color and size (small, black and gray) is their hydrophobic nature, which allows the absorption of up to 10-12 times more liquid, forming a gel.
Chia seeds have numerous benefits, both nutritionally and medicinally. They contain omega-3 fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, fiber and protein, along with antioxidants and minerals.
The new study suggests that chia seeds contain compounds with anti-inflammatory effects that help regulate glucose and manage hypertension. It is not the first study to focus on this aspect, but it is the first of its kind detailed at the molecular level.
How do chia seeds help patients with hypertension?
The seeds’ potential to even reduce the risk of hypertension is, in principle, attributed to their omega-3 content. Chia seeds are an excellent source of omega-3. Research shows that consuming omega-3, whether it is assimilated through diet or supplements, lowers blood pressure.
For example, a 2021 study of 42 adults with type 2 diabetes found that participants who consumed at least 40g of chia seeds daily for 12 weeks were able to reduce their systolic blood pressure.
As for the association with reducing the risk of cancer, the authors of the study claim that it is due to the huge concentration of antioxidants and polyphenols.
These antioxidants play an essential role in protecting cells against oxidative stress caused by free radicals. This protective effect helps prevent the prolonged inflammatory response, often associated with chronic diseases such as cancer.
So, as part of a balanced diet with optimal nutritional content, chia seeds can offer benefits against cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Sources:
Healthline
2023-12-18 16:01:43
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