Khaberni - A recent scientific study revealed that consuming chia seeds may be an effective way to protect the brain and body from the harmful effects of ultra-processed foods, often rich in saturated fats and sugars.
Brazilian scientists at the Federal University of Viçosa, according to "Daily Mail", found that the small black and white chia seeds, rich in omega-3 fats and complete protein containing all essential amino acids, could help counteract the risks of ultra-processed foods.
In the experiment, mice were fed a diet mimicking unhealthy Western diets for eight weeks, then the animals were divided into three groups: the first continued on the unhealthy diet only, the second had chia oil added, and the third had chia flour added.
The results showed that chia oil enhanced the activity of POMC and CART genes responsible for suppressing appetite; increasing the feeling of fullness, while chia flour contributed to improving the brain's response to leptin, the hormone that controls satiety and reduces overeating.
It was also observed that both forms of chia seeds helped reduce brain inflammation associated with high-fat and sugar diets, and protected brain cells from damage.
The researchers explained that chia flour might have greater protective effects; as its compounds directly interact with appetite receptors in the brain.
Despite these promising results, the team cautioned that consuming chia seeds did not achieve significant weight loss in mice, pointing out that the high-calorie diet might be the reason.
However, changes in appetite and eating behaviors might be observed after a longer trial period.
The researchers confirmed that including chia seeds in the diet might represent a promising strategy to reduce the impact of ultra-processed foods on the body and brain, especially concerning metabolic diseases and inflammations related to the diet.
