Chia seed has been used as a nutritious dietary staple in Mexico and Central America since ancient times. Chia seed oil contains 60% alpha-linoleic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid that promotes cardiovascular health. It is also an excellent source of iron and fiber.
Recent research has also studied how chia seeds may be utilized as a weight-modifying food. Patients within the studies who consumed foods containing chia seeds rated their satiety (fullness) levels higher and had reductions in both body weight and waist circumference. Also of note, participants receiving chia seed products in the studies had decreases in their serum triglycerides (cholesterol) and glucose (blood sugar) levels.
Chia seeds are available in a variety of forms including whole seeds, oil, chia meal, and “chia snacks”. There is no standardized recommended dose, but a typical serving of seeds (whole or ground) is a quarter-cup.
Dr. Anne Hermann, a holistic internal medicine physician, maintains offices in Tampa and Saint Petersburg Beach, Florida. Dr. Hermann is also board- certified in nutrition and offers a number of weight loss and dietary counseling services to her patients. For more information or to schedule an appointment please contact the office at (813) 902-9559.
