Chia oil in capsules – What is it for? Are there side effects?

Chia oil in capsules serves as a plant source of omega 3 fatty acids essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system. Inadequate levels of alpha-linolenic acid can not only impair neuronal functions but also favor the onset of inflammation that leads to weight gain. Other properties of chia oil: cardiovascular protection, skin-enhancing aspects and scalp toning.

One of the main benefits of chia oil in capsules ; Many people don’t like to feel the “little jelly seeds” in their mouths, so the oil becomes a more practical option to get all the benefits of chia oil in capsules.

Chia oil capsules  are also more concentrated in omega -3s than whole seeds, and can be added to just about any recipe—sweet or savory. On the other hand, chia oil in capsules , high in calories, fat and like any other, can cause weight gain if consumed in excess. It is also low in fiber, protein and other nutrients that are found in large amounts in seeds.

What is chia oil?

The oil extracted from chia seeds is known as chia oil in capsules . Approximately 26-35% by weight of oil is extracted from chia seeds. Chia oil, with a higher content of omega 3 fatty acid (alpha linolenic acid), represents an excellent nutritional supplement. Chia oil in capsules contains a higher amount of fatty acid than other oils. In addition, chia oil in capsules  has more protein and omega 3 fatty acid content than seeds. Thus, chia oil is beneficial in reducing the risk of metabolic syndrome.

Chia oil also promotes the formation of good cholesterol in the body. Chia oil can be used for cooking. It will provide a rich base of omega 3 fatty acids for our food. Thus, chia oil in capsules  is more beneficial than other oils. Chia oil also has insect repellent properties, thus preventing insects from attacking the chia plant.

Great for Heart Health:

Chia oil is the rich source of protein , vitamins, minerals, fiber and omega 3 fatty acids . Alpha-linolenic acid present in chia reduces the risk of heart disease by dissolving different vitamins like vitamin A , vitamin D, vitamin E and vitamin K itself. This will increase the efficiency of the body to absorb these vitamins and protect the heart from different diseases. Different studies have also shown that chia protects the heart from different diseases by redistributing fats.

Helps Treat Diabetes:

Chia oil in capsules  is good for diabetic patients. Different studies have shown that chia omega 3 fatty acid is beneficial for diabetes . The anti-inflammatory property of chia is very beneficial in curing diabetes . A study was conducted on humans to show the effectiveness of chia in controlling blood glucose level before and after a meal.

Controlled blood glucose level also reduced chronic inflammation and blood pressure. Thus, chia oil capsules  are beneficial for diabetes  and heart disease. Alpha-linolenic acid also helps to reduce C-reactive protein (an indicator of inflammation in the arteries) and systolic blood pressure.

Lowers Blood Pressure:

Chia is also beneficial in lowering blood pressure or risk of hypertension. Omega 3 fatty acid is very beneficial in lowering high blood pressure. As chia has a high amount of omega 3 fatty acids , it prevents high blood pressure. A human study showed that chia can efficiently lower blood pressure.

Improves Liver Functioning:

Omega 3 fatty acid found in chia is also beneficial for protecting our liver. Omega 3 fatty acid prevents lipotoxicity, fatty liver disease and dyslipidemia. An animal study showed the mechanism of how chia seeds benefit in dyslipidemia and insulin resistance. In this study, the omega-3 fatty acid  in chia seeds prevented the lipotoxicity that infected the heart muscles. Chia seeds prevented lipotoxicity by generally reducing plasma fats.

Promotes Health in Pregnancy:

Omega 3 fatty acid is good for pregnancy. Chia oil in capsules  rich in alpha linolenic acid. Alpha linolenic acid is the precursor of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). This acid plays an important role during pregnancy. This acid is vital for the formation of the brain and eyes in the fetus. A study on healthy pregnant women was carried out to show the conversion of alpha linolenic acid to DHA.

Acts in Cancer Prevention:

Diet rich in omega 3 fatty acid can prevent cancers such as prostate, breast and colon cancer. Studies have shown that the combination of drugs and omega-3 fatty acid supplements could speed up cancer treatment. Chia seeds are an excellent source of omega 3 and can help prevent cancer.

Chia oil in capsules  contains more omega 3 fatty acid than chia seeds. Studies have shown that omega 3 fatty acids in chia oil capsules  reduce tumor size and also increase the rate of apoptosis and T lymphocytes. Thus, it helps in cancer treatment.

Prevent Rheumatoid Arthritis:

Omega 3 fatty acid has anomalous properties. Due to these properties, it has the ability to prevent many diseases. Rheumatoid arthritis is one of them. Omega 3 fatty acid prevents rheumatoid arthritis due to its anti-inflammatory property.

A human study showed that consuming omega 3 fatty acid for a period of 3 months helps in reducing rheumatoid conditions. So omega 3 fatty acid supplements should be taken with rheumatoid arthritis. Chia seeds provide 2.5 g of alpha-linolenic acid in just one tablespoon. Thus, chia seeds are also beneficial for rheumatoid arthritis patients.

Increase Energy Levels:

The omega-3 fatty acids in chia seeds are also effective in boosting the energy of athletes. Research shows that chia seed drink is as effective as carbohydrate energy drink in increasing endurance in athletes.

Increases Antioxidant Defenses:

The antioxidant content of chia oil in capsules  is higher than that of chia seeds. Antioxidant activity is expressed by different enzymes, eg superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase. Chia oil is very useful in inducing the expression of these enzymes. Thus, it promotes antioxidant activity.

Serves as a Sweetener:

Chia oil in capsules  can also be used in place of the sweetener. Sucrose or other carbohydrate -rich sweeteners are usually used . But chia oil acts as a nourishing and beneficial sweetener. A study was conducted which showed that chia oil can act as a natural sweetener for making chocolate.

Solves Skin Problems:

Chia oil is one of the best oils for the skin. A study was carried out on patients infected with a disease in which the skin becomes dry and starts to crack). Patients had to apply chia seed oil for 8 weeks. Chia oil in capsules has been observed to improve skin hydration and reduce cracking. Thus, chia oil in capsules  can be used as an effective moisturizer for itchy skin.

Prevents Signs of Aging:

As chia oil in capsules  contains a number of antioxidants  and also has an anti-inflammatory response, it makes an excellent anti- aging agent . It can prevent signs of aging such as wrinkles, fine lines and enlarged pores.

Side effects:

Like many other highly nutritious foods , these seeds can cause a negative reaction in your body if taken incorrectly. In general, they are considered safe. However, there are several chia seeds side effects that you definitely need to be aware of.

1. Gastrointestinal Problems:  Constipation, bloating and flatulence are the most common chia seeds side effects that affect the intestines.
2. Allergy:  An allergic reaction to chia seeds is extremely rare, but possible. If you are predisposed to allergies, you should be very careful when trying this food.
3. Reduced Blood Pressure:  Some chia seeds side effects can really benefit people suffering from hypertension. However, others may suffer because of it.
4. The Super Stimulation of Blood Sugar Control Drugs:  On their own, chia seeds can help maintain normal blood sugar levels . However, its effect on blood sugar is so significant that it can conflict with medications that are supposed to control it.