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Salba Seed Side Effects

Salba seed, also known as Salva Hispanica L or white chia, comes from Central America. Salba seed can be eaten whole or ground. Salba is often used as an additive to foods for nutritional and health benefits. Salba contains nutrients such as fiber, protein, calcium, vitamin A, Omega 3, vitamin B, iron and magnesium. Animal studies have shown that salba has decreased blood pressure, assisted in controlling blood sugar and has reduced inflammation.

  1. Gastrointestinal

    • Salba may cause gastrointestinal problems such as stomach cramps and constipation. Salba seed contains a rich fiber concentration that actually slows the digestive process. The slowing of the digestive system can aid in the absorption of nutrients taken in, but it can also lead to constipation in others. Drinking lots of fluids, especially water, may help prevent constipation concerns when taking Salba.

    Blood Flow and Heart

    • Salba has shown to lower blood pressure in some people. People that take medications for blood thinning such as warfarin or coumadin should consult their physician before taking any new supplement. Salba combined with an anticoagulant medication could increase bleeding. Due to the possibility of lowering a person's blood pressure, people taking medications for the heart should consult a physician before beginning a salba regimen. Salba may decrease blood pressure too low if taken in combination with prescribed medication that is meant for the lowering of blood pressure. Medications that are taken to lower blood pressure may include water pills, angiotensin-converting enzyme, calcium channel blockers and beta blockers.

    Allergies

    • If you know that you have allergies to salba, chia or salvia do not use salba seeds. People with allergic reactions to mustard or sesame seeds should be cautious due to an association between this allergy and salba allergy. Studies and research on salba have been limited so ask your physician before taking salba if you already have food allergies. As with most food allergies, symptoms of an allergic reaction may include, but are not limited to, swelling of the lips, tongue, throat or face, hives, tingling of the mouth or in severe cases anaphylaxis.

    Weight Loss

    • Salba seeds decrease the feeling of hunger in some individuals because the seeds prevent calories from being absorbed into your system. Salba advertisers promote that salba is safe for children to use. A pediatrician should be consulted before beginning any supplement regimen in children. Although many people seek out weight loss tools, children often need essential calories for proper growth.

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