Login or Register

Magnesium & Chia Seeds

Jul 26, 2011 | By Sheri Kay

Magnesium is a dietary mineral that's needed for a variety of processes to take place. About half of your magnesium is stored in your bones, and the rest is inside the cells of your organs, tissues and blood cells. Chia seeds are a source of magnesium.

Magnesium

Magnesium is a component in more than 300 of your body's chemical reactions, and is necessary for normal muscle and nerve function. According to the Office of Dietary Supplements, it may have a role in preventing and treating hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. Magnesium is found in nuts, legumes, whole grains, vegetables and seeds, including chia seeds. It's also available as a dietary supplement. Speak with your doctor before taking magnesium supplements.

Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are harvested from salvia hispanics plants, which originated in Central America. Chia seeds are rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, fiber, and folic acid. It also contains calcium, iron, potassium, vitamin C, magnesium, folate, B vitamins, zinc, selenium, and vitamin A. The seeds functions as antioxidants and may help to prevent cardiovascular disease.

Cardiovascular Disease Prevention

Magnesium deficiency may be associated with hypertension, congestive heart failure, heart beat irregularities and heart attacks. Chia seeds may help to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in people with type II diabetes according to a study on a specific variety of chia called Salba published in the November 2007 issue of "Diabetes Care." The authors of the study noted that the beneficial effect may be similar for any type of whole grain, not just chia.

Precautions

Chia seeds appear to be safe to consume as a food; however, the study on Salba seeds demonstrated a reduction of blood pressure, so it is possible that regular consumption of chia may reduce your blood pressure and possibly interact with blood pressure--reducing medications. Speak to your doctor before taking chia seeds if you have either high or low blood pressure or are taking medication for high blood pressure.

References

Article reviewed by Aldene Fredenburg Last updated on: Jul 26, 2011

Must see: Photo Galleries

Member Comments