Chia Seeds and Women’s Health

Instantly half of the world population—women--would have better health if their diets contained some chia seeds. And that is because a higher intake of Omega-3 essential fatty acids (EFA) has been proven to relieve or even reverse some of the most common conditions affecting women.   

v  Improvement of General Health. Elevated triglyceride levels are linked to heart disease, particularly in women. Because Omega-3 essential fatty acids have a powerful effect on triglycerides, women especially gain from a regular intake of Chia seeds. 

v  Relief from Dysmenorrhea (painful periods).One underlying cause of painful periods is a disturbed balance between anti-inflammatory, vasodilator Omega-3 (which increases blood flow) and pro-inflammatory, vasoconstrictor Omega-6. Chia seeds, as previously explained in a previous page, has a higher ratio of Omega-3s over Omega-6s, and can relieve monthly pain and cramping. 

v  Protection from Breast Cancer.Omega-3 EFA contains natural anti-inflammatory qualities that prevents cell mutation and kills cancer cells.

v  Improves Fertility. Increased intake of Omega-3 can facilitate pregnancy by increasing blood flow to the uterus and improving hormonal levels.

v  PREGNANT WOMEN NEED OMEGA-3!    During pregnancy, Omega-3 supplementation lowers the risk of premature birth. Chia could also play an important role in preventing pre-eclampsia or high-blood pressure during pregnancy. 

v  Healthy and Happy Babies.  Omega-3 EFA transfers from the mother to the baby via the placenta. Omega-3 is vital for the development of the fetus. It can promote fetal health and growth. It can also enhance the baby’s brain development. A human brain literally sits in Omega-3 fatty acids and needs Omega-3 in high concentration for it to function properly. In babies, Omega-3 is crucial for their brains’ structural development, something so foundational that it could affect their mental capabilities for the rest of his/her lives. 

v  After-Birth Benefits.  Numerous studies have shown that Omega-3 EFA increase levels of serotonin, a ‘feel good’ hormone that relieves depression. An increased intake of Chia by new mums could help postpartum depression. Also, a breast feeding mum taking Chia seeds, pass on Omega-3 to her baby and enable infant brain development to continue at a health rate. Not all baby formulae are enriched with Omega-3, and if they are, could come at a premium price. 

v  Stress-Free Menopause.  It is generally accepted, and has been proven that Omega-3 fatty acids may help prevent problems associated with menopause. Studies show that increased daily intake of Omega-3 could reverse symptoms of depression and occurrence of hot flushes. 

v  Safer Hormone Therapy.  Hormone therapy has been seen to increase triglyceride levels in women, which could lead to cardiovascular disease . An increase intake of Omega-3 by women receiving hormone therapy is recommended.