A A A

What you Need to Know about Chia Seeds Side Effects

Reviewed by Christina Jackson, MD

If you not familiar with chia seeds, you might consider adding them to your diet but be aware there are some chia seeds side effects for some people. Chia seeds are another example of a superfood not unlike single celled algae and kelp. All are high in fiber, vitamins, minerals, lipids and amino acids. Let's take a look at what they are and their many health benefits as well as chia seeds side effects.

Chia seeds have been used for hundreds of years by the Aztecs and were certainly a part of the Native American Indians. The seeds come from a plant in the mint family and are grown throughout South and North America as well as Mexico. The seeds are an important food source and are also used to make tea.

Chia seeds, just like oily fishes, some algae and krill, are known to contain high concentrations of omega 3 fatty acids that are so important for promoting cell membrane health for every cell in the body. They are also a great source of protein, energy and magnesium. In fact, these seeds have 2 times the amount of protein found in other seeds and grains. The antioxidant content happens to be 3 times that of blueberries. The mineral content is high in calcium and boron and over 3 times the amount of iron as spinach and yet very low in sodium.

Many individuals eat the seeds raw, mix them with water to make a gelatin-like base which anything can be added to like Jello or simply add the seeds into a number of foods/salads. They have a mild flavor and are easy to digest that makes them so versatile, they can be put into almost anything.

It is said that chia seeds help the gut to absorb nutrients better from other foods. These seeds are also known to give patients with ulcers, gastritis, gastrointestinal reflux disease (GERD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) some hope of natural relief from the serious discomfort they experience.

High concentrations of chia seeds have been demonstrated to lower blood pressure in seniors. Chia seeds have been demonstrated to aid in weight loss and with their high fiber content have been known to slow down carbohydrate metabolism helping to decrease your appetite. This is particularly beneficial to diabetics. Individuals who have cancer have shown marked increases in their energy levels when consuming chia seeds. The high omega 3 content promotes a healthy heart, vasculature and brain and those who have heart problems can benefit from this seed.

Even with all these wonderful benefits, there are some chia seed side effects. If you already have low blood pressure, these seeds could lower you blood pressure too much. Make sure to consult with your healthcare provider before eating these seeds or taking chia seed supplements. Some individuals happen to be allergic to certain components in these seeds. If you get a rash or experience swelling of the face, tongue, lips, or breathing problems, this indicates an allergic response. It could become serious and generate anaphylactic shock. Contact your doctor immediately. Other chia seed side effects include bloating and gas production because of the high fiber content. Certain individuals will have difficulty with this like some people have problems with psyllium fiber which is taken from the psyllium seed.

As you can see the chia seed is loaded with many health benefits. It's amazing that something so small can contain so many nutrients. However, if you have low blood pressure or have any food allergies talk with your healthcare professional about possible chia seeds side effects before you partake in this superfood.