What Is Chia Seed Oil?

Chia seed oil is a expelled and filtered liquid that derives from the chia seed. The high fat content of approximately 33.8 percent oil, the majority of it being beneficial fatty acids, has led to the popularity of chia seed oil as a dietary supplement.

History

• Chia seed oil was initially analyzed by Henry A. Gardner, who harvested the seeds from Mexico and sent them in for analysis.

Production

• There are two chia plants, one native to Mexico, and another that is commonly grown in the U.S. The seeds are harvested and pressed for their clear oil.

Fat Content

• Chia seed oil is comprised of 85.2 percent unsaturated fatty acids, and 8.1 percent saturated fats.

Research Studies

• In a study published by Cambridge, rats have shown health benefits associated with chia seed oil, including improvement and reversal in metabolic abnormalities and insulin resistance.

Heart Benefits

• Research has also shown the benefits of Chia Seed oil towards coronary heart disease. The studies show that chia seed oil consumption leads to the most HDL increase and LDL decrease when compared to corn oil, whole chia seeds and ground chia seeds.