Chia Proteins as a Source of Bioactive Peptides to Enhance Human Health Benefits

Abstract

Chia (Salvia hispanica) is a well-known pseudo-cereal whose consumption is increasing due to its content of healthy omega-3 and polyunsaturated fatty acids, dietary fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, carotenoids, and minerals, and also because of its high concentration and quality of proteins and a better balance of essential amino acids. This chapter focuses on the potential nutraceutical properties of proteins from chia seeds as a source of bioactive peptides with benefits on human health. An introduction to the main storage protein fractions in chia seeds (prolamin, glutelin, albumin, and globulin) is presented, showing that the last two proteins are found in higher concentrations. Bioactive peptides encrypted in these proteins and released by enzymatic proteolysis with digestive enzymes, microbial or plant enzymes, or by fermentation with starter cultures are also described. Based on its composition and amino acid sequences, we go through different biological activities as reported in the literature: antihypertensive, antithrombotic, hypocholesterolemic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects, highlighting the importance of consuming chia seeds as a functional food with potential benefits for health. Finally, the proteins recovered from the oil extraction process are considered, adding value to this by-product as a source of potential bioactive peptides.