Chia seed (Salvia hispanica L.) supplementation may contribute to raising the levels of vitamin B₁₂: An option for the vegan diet

Suplementação de semente de chia (Salvia hispanica L.) pode contribuir para elevar os níveis de vitamina B₁₂: uma opção para a dieta vegana

ABSTRACT

Objective

The chia seed, an ancient pseudocereal, is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and polyphenols, and has been suggested to possess several health benefits. Although it has gained popularity among nutritionists, little is known about the systemic effects of chia and their interactions. Hence, hepatorenal indicators and plasma vitamin concentrations in chia-supplemented aluminum-exposed rats were investigated.

Methods

Wistar albino rats were either fed on a chia-rich- or standard-diet for 21 days and exposed to aluminum. Liver function tests (Alanine Aminotransferase, Aspartate Aminotransferase, Alkaline Phosphatase, Lactate Dehydrogenase), kidney function tests (Urea Nitrogen, Creatinine), and vitamin B₁₂ and folic acid measurements were performed by using an automated analyzer.

Results

Aluminum exposure had no influence on renal function, as did chia supplementation. However, liver function was disturbed with the exposure to Aluminum and chia was of no use against it. Surprisingly, it was found that the animals fed on a chia-rich diet displayed higher concentrations of vitamin B₁₂ which was not the case for folic acid.

Conclusion

It was deduced that a chia-rich diet has no effect on the renal function and is not able to reverse aluminum-induced hepatotoxicity; however, it may be of benefit against vitamin B₁₂ insufficiency and thus, it may offer a novel treatment option which is particularly important in the vegan diet.

Keywords
Aluminum; Chia; Folic acid; Hepatorenal function; Vitamin B12