Chia seed oil is nutrient rich oil that is extracted from dried Chia seeds. It has a golden color with a mild nutty flavor. The oil is rich in alpha linoleic acid which is an omega-3 essential fatty acid able to reverse the inflammatory effect of omega-6 fatty acids. It also has high amounts of antioxidants which help protect the body from oxidative stress. Here are some of the benefits of using Chia seed oil.

Chia seed oil contains a high amount of antioxidants which protect body cells from harmful free radicals, formed as a byproduct of metabolism. Free radicals have damaging effect on proteins such as DNA and RNA as well as other cellular structures including cell membranes. This may lead to erroneous replications, cancer and inflammation. Since inflammation is a leading cause of a host of chronic diseases, consuming chia seed oil can help prevent conditions such as diabetes, asthma, allergies and arthritis.

Chia seed oil contains essential minerals and trace elements including magnesium, potassium, zinc and copper. These minerals contain polysaccharides which slow down the combustion of carbohydrates in the intestines preventing sudden energy crashes in the body. They also stimulate intestinal activity and prevent subsequent cravings.

Consuming Chia oil has been shown to have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system. It is able to reduce cholesterol levels as well as prevent inflammations. Studies have shown that cardiovascular diseases are directly linked to dietary fats. Chia seed oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids which can significantly reduce the chances of developing cardiovascular diseases. They work by maintaining normal blood cholesterol levels.

Chronic inflammation is responsible for conditions such as psoriasis, asthma and rheumatoid arthritis among others. Omega-3 fatty acids found in Chia seed oil have been shown to inhibit pro-inflammatory events in the cellular endothelium. The concentration of these essential fatty acids is higher in Chia oil than Chia seeds.

Omega-3 fatty acids are also of significant importance during pregnancy. They are responsible for carrying out critical functions during gestation, breastfeeding and infancy. During pregnancy, these fatty acids are transferred from the mother to the baby through the placenta. Studies have shown that during pregnancy and the initial years of infancy, there is an increase in the accumulation of omega-3 fatty acids in the fetal brain and retina. They are responsible for the development of cognitive, postural, motor function and visual acuity in babies.

Chia seed oil can be used to help maintain brain health. The cell membranes of the brain are composed of fatty acids that are of great metabolic significance. An increase in the quantity of polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids increases the plasticity of these cell membranes. This protects the brains neurotransmitters found on the membranes as well as the spatial coupling of the membrane receptor.

Chia seed oil is therefore a healthy and versatile addition to any diet due to its rich mineral and nutrient composition. It is a great substitute for fatty products as it doesn’t contain unhealthy fats and is rich in omega-3 essential fatty acids.