Chia Seeds For Kidney Patients

Introduction

Have you heard of edible seeds that are full of nutrients and provide several health benefits? Chia seeds, also known as Salba chia and Mexican chia, are the seeds of a flowering plant called Salvia hispanica, a species of the mint family. In the past, Aztecs and Mesoamericans used these seeds as an ingredient in their meals as they have many health benefits – helping in weight loss, improving heart health, lowering cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and improving intestinal health. Moreover, they reduce the chances of developing diabetes and also protect against colorectal cancer. 

In recent times, people have created various recipes to include chia seeds in their diet. Some eat them in their raw form, while others add them cooked. Using them in desserts like chia pudding and cereals is like adding a cherry on top of a cake. 

These seeds are greatly recognised for their extra nutritional value that helps our organs to stay healthy. However, there are some mixed reviews for how they affect our kidneys. 

Nutritional value of chia seeds

The chemical composition of chia seeds gives them beneficial properties for the human body. Table 1 shows the nutrients present in 100 grams of chia seeds.¹

Table 1: 

Chia seeds & kidney patients

People with kidney conditions like chronic kidney disease, kidney stones, kidney failure, or kidney transplants may be put on a renal diet. This diet involves consuming less sodium, protein, potassium, and phosphorus. However, the National Kidney Foundation advises kidney patients to consult their doctors and nutritionists before adding chia seeds to their diet.

Benefits of chia seeds for kidney patients

Chia seeds are a rich source of fibre, which is an essential nutrient for the kidneys. Consuming a sufficient amount of fibre helps with decreasing blood urea nitrogen and creatinine levels, which is important for preventing the complications of chronic kidney disease.² Research has shown that the risk of chronic kidney disease is 40-50% lower in people who consume a high-fibre diet. 

People with kidney disease could eventually develop end-stage renal disease (ESRD). To prevent this complication, Omega-3 supplementation has been found to improve the function of the glomerulus (a part of the kidneys that filters waste from blood) by reducing proteinuria in patients with impaired kidneys.³ 

As mentioned in Table 1, chia seeds are a good source of omega-3 and 6 fatty acids. However, it is vital to consult your doctor and nutritionist to determine a safe quantity of chia seeds to add to your diet. 

Side effects of chia seeds 

The high saturated fat content in chia seeds is a risk factor for developing albuminuria (the presence of a blood protein in urine) and decreasing glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Both of these conditions further damage human kidneys. To prevent complications, take caution when adding chia seeds to your diet.⁴

Another side effect of chia seeds is high blood calcium levels. Calcium can be risky for kidney patients as it causes deposition of calcium (calcification) which can further result in decreased GFR levels and can also lead to kidney stones.⁵

Kidneys play an important role in maintaining potassium levels. High potassium levels (hyperkalaemia) is as bad as low potassium (hypokalaemia). Since people with kidney disorders have impaired kidney function, they are unable to maintain these levels on their own, ⁶ and require external support through diet or supplements. Chia seeds can help in hypokalaemic conditions but can be harmful to people with high serum potassium levels. 

Similarly, the kidneys also regulate magnesium levels. Both high and too low magnesium can be detrimental to the kidneys.⁷ 

Therefore, it is recommended to consult a doctor for advice on the recommended amount of chia seeds to eat before adding them to your diet. 

Things to remember

• Chia seeds are edible seeds and can be eaten as part of a healthy diet
• They have a high nutritional value, which makes them beneficial for human health 
• For kidney patients, it is recommended to consult a doctor as chia seeds may have harmful effects 

Summary

Chia seeds are beneficial for improving heart health, reducing weight, improving intestinal function, and even preventing some cancers. However, they can have both beneficial and harmful effects on the kidneys. On one hand, they prevent complications of kidney disease and improve kidney function. On the other hand, they also contain nutrients that can cause severe damaging risks for the patients. Therefore, it is recommended to ask your doctor about a safe quantity before adding them to your diet.