1 cup of chia seeds a day: Unexpected things happen to blood pressure and blood fat

Many people have the habit of drinking chia seeds every day to lose weight, but few people understand the surprising effects of chia seeds on blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Next, doctors will explain what surprising things happen to blood pressure and blood lipids when regularly consuming chia seeds.

When it comes to heart health, few people think of chia seeds, but research shows they can help lower blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels, says US-based preventive medicine specialist Dr. Sohaib Imtiaz, according to the Hindustan Times.

Chia seeds are high in fiber, which can help lower cholesterol.

Photo: AI

Chia seeds support heart health through three main factors:

Rich in fiber

Chia seeds are high in fiber, which can help lower cholesterol. When chia seeds are mixed with water, they form a gel-like substance that can help remove cholesterol from the digestive tract, says Stephani Johnson, associate professor of clinical and preventive nutrition sciences at Rutgers University.

Rich in omega-3s and antioxidants

Chia seeds provide omega-3 fatty acids, which help increase "good" cholesterol levels.

Johnson adds that chia seeds also contain antioxidants that can help prevent “bad” cholesterol from becoming oxidized – a process that is important for heart health. Oxidized LDL is a key factor in plaque buildup in the arteries, increasing the risk of coronary heart disease.

Reduce inflammation

Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), the plant-based form of omega-3 found in chia seeds, has been shown to help reduce inflammation in blood vessels and throughout the body.

How to make chia seed water

According to Julia Zumpano, a nutritionist at the famous Cleveland Clinic in the US, to reap the health benefits of chia seeds, you should consume 2-3 tablespoons per day. Chia seeds should be soaked to make them easier to digest.

• Add about 2 tablespoons of dry chia seeds to a glass of 240 ml water.
• Soak for 10-15 minutes.
• Stir in other ingredients if you want to add more flavor, like lemon juice…

Importantly, Dr. Johnson notes: The benefits of chia seeds are best when combined with an overall healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep, according to Hindustan Times.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/moi-ngay-1-ly-hat-chia-dieu-bat-ngo-xay-ra-voi-huet-ap-va-mo-mau-18525120323003533.htm