Lastly, chia seeds have a low sodium content, making them ideal for those conscious of their salt-intake. Salmon is said to have nearly 78 times more sodium than chia seeds contain. Tuna fish? A whopping 237 times as much salt.
Chia Seeds Widely Touted, But More Research Is Needed
Even though some scientific research suggests the potential of chia seeds as a health food, the verdict is out. A review published in the Journal of Biomedicine and Biotechnology also noted that the available peer-reviewed research was "scanty.”
One area of concern are the claims made about chia seeds as a weight loss supplement. It's true these seeds are viewed primarily as a "good fat". However, you can have too much of a good thing.
Alice H Lichtenstein, DSc, director of Tufts’ HNRCA Cardio-vascular Nutrition Laboratory, pointed out that chia seeds contain "60 calories per tablespoon.” Unless consciously substituted for high-calorie foods, Lichtenstein warns that those additional calories will add up in the long run.
Catherine Ulbricht, PharmD, and chief editor of Natural Standard Research Collaboration, believes that more research is needed before chia seeds are deemed a true superfood.
Side Effects Of Chia Seed Consumption
At present, there doesn't seem to be much evidence that chia seeds are dangerous. Concerns that do arise about chia seed consumption are generally tied to possible allergic reactions.