Salvia Hispanica L (Chia Seeds) as Brain Superfood – How Seeds Increase Intelligence

Abstract

The influence of nutrition on cognitive abilities is undisputed in academic literature. Omega-3 fatty acids in particular delivered convincing results in several studies. In recent years chia seeds (Salvia Hispanica L) are becoming increasingly popular in Europe as well. In a trial the authors divided the study participants into two groups: an intervention group and a control group. The participants of the intervention group consumed a daily dose of 5 grams chia seeds over a time period of 21 days.In total, the test group that participated in the intervention performed significantly better in the retest than the comparison group. They improved their verbal intelligence and enhanced their ability in problem solving. Insofar, the classification of Salvia Hispanica L as a superfood, respectively brain superfood, is scientifically justified.

Health Potential of Chia (Salvia hispanica L.) Seeds-Derived α-linoleic Acid and α-linolenic Acids: A Review

“…However, dietary ALA in chia seed did not modify plasma parameters of oxidative stress as well as the modification of antioxidative enzymes. The action of these antioxidative enzymes was not changed in the control (safflower group) compared to chia seed oil [29], [30].…”

“…Rincón-Cervera et al [29] observed an increase in activity of carnitine palmitoyl-transferase I and an increase in deoxyribonucleic acid transcription factor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α expression on a study involving rats. Chia-fed rats also showed an increased superoxide dismutase activity, carnitine acyl-carnitine transferase, glutathione peroxidase and increased glutathione monosulfide /glutathione disulfide (GSH/GSSG) ratio signifying an increase in the antioxidant status [2], [22], [29]. The lipogenic enzymes fatty acid synthase and acetyl-CoA carboxylase activity were also shown to be inhibited [2], [29].…”

“…Chia-fed rats also showed an increased superoxide dismutase activity, carnitine acyl-carnitine transferase, glutathione peroxidase and increased glutathione monosulfide /glutathione disulfide (GSH/GSSG) ratio signifying an increase in the antioxidant status [2], [22], [29]. The lipogenic enzymes fatty acid synthase and acetyl-CoA carboxylase activity were also shown to be inhibited [2], [29]. However, dietary ALA in chia seed did not modify plasma parameters of oxidative stress as well as the modification of antioxidative enzymes.…”

“…This, therefore, allows for its accretion into different tissues and its conversion to ω-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (EPA and DHA), which are also accreted in the plasma, liver and adipose tissue of the animals. However, a combination of chia seed oil and sachi oil (Plukenetia volubilis L.) resulted into a decreased ω-6/ω-3 ratio with subsequent cardioprotective effect while DHA and EPA increased [2], [29], [37]. From the parameters tested in serum lipid profiles, ingestion of chia seed oil seemingly inhibited formation of liver triacylglycerols that generates very low density lipoprotein cholesterol, Fas ligands, coenzyme-A, glucose-6phosphate dehydrogenase, and increased bioactivity involving β-oxidation of fatty acid and carnitine palmitoyl transferase by either averting or limiting dyslipidaemia [29], [30].…”

The Role of Chia Seeds Oil in Human Health: A Critical Review

“…Various studies have revealed that one can measure the effects of polyunsaturated fats and other diets such as milk or oils. Onneken [28] conducted a study to look into how chia seeds increase intelligence. The research was based on the assessment of tests that evaluate cognitive performance.…”