Chia seeds are praised for their high nutritional content and diverse health benefits. However, according to Dr. Heidi Moawad (USA), if combined incorrectly, chia seeds can interact with some drugs, changing the effectiveness of treatment or increasing the risk of side effects.
Blood pressure medication
Chia seeds can help lower blood pressure by improving mineral balance and dilating blood vessels through the ACE enzyme inhibitor mechanism, similar to some blood pressure drugs. This is beneficial for people with high blood pressure, but for people with low blood pressure or taking anti-pressure drugs, the resonance effect can cause excessive blood pressure drops. Dr. Moawad recommends consulting your doctor before regularly using large amounts of chia seeds.
diabetes medications
Thanks to its ability to stabilize blood sugar, chia seeds help control diabetes. However, if combined with hypoglycemic drugs, the risk of hypoglycemia ( Fatigue, dizziness, fainting) will increase. Dose adjustment and blood sugar monitoring are required.
Cholesterol lowering drugs
Chia seeds help improve blood lipid index, including LDL, HDL and triglycerides. However, if you are taking cholesterol-lowering drugs, supplementing too much chia seeds can cause blood fat levels to drop below the required threshold, which is harmful to the body. Regularly check blood lipids when combined.
Mineral supplements
Chia seeds are rich in calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium. For people with kidney disease or are taking mineral supplements, the risk of excess minerals in the blood will be higher, leading to muscle pain, fatigue or seizures.
Laxative or stool softener
Chia seeds are rich in fiber, which aids digestion. However, when taken with laxative, the laxative effect will increase, easily causing diarrhea or dehydration.
Drugs affected by timing
Due to their impact on the digestive system, chia seeds can change the rate at which drugs are absorbed. Pharmaceutical author nevertheless Imtiaz (USA) recommends consulting a health professional to arrange a reasonable time to eat chia seeds compared to taking medication.
Eating chia seeds in moderation often does not have a significant effect on the drug. However, for people who are being treated for chronic diseases or taking long-term medication, eating a lot of chia seeds every day needs to be monitored by health to avoid health risks.
