Avoid with known allergy or hypersensitivity to chia, its constituents, or members of the genus Salvia. Allergic reactions to chia protein are possible, as are cross-reactivity reactions in people allergic to sesame and mustard seed.

Although chia seeds and golden chia have been consumed as food for centuries, there is currently limited safety data available on chia or Salba®. Gastrointestinal side effects have been reported.

Chia should be used cautiously in people with low blood pressure or in people taking heart medications, due to the risk for additive effects.

Chia should be avoided in people taking anticoagulants (blood-thinners) such as warfarin, due to an increased risk for bleeding.

Chia cannot be recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to a lack of scientific safety data.

Chia seeds have been studied for up to four weeks at a maximum dose of 10 grams. The recommended serving by the manufacturer of Salba® is 2 tablespoons (15 grams), which reportedly contains more than 3,000 milligrams of omega-3 fatty acids, 5 grams of fiber, and various minerals.

For the prevention of cardiovascular disease, 33-41 grams per day of Salba® has been provided for 12 weeks, in ground form or incorporated into bread.

For children ages 4.5-19 years, the average chia consumption may be 1.4 grams daily with a maximum daily dose of 4.3 grams. The manufacturer of Salba® has recommended up to 1 tablespoon of chia per day for children.

In theory, chia may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulants (blood- thinners) such as warfarin. Salba® may lower blood pressure and should be used with caution in those taking heart medications due to the risk for additive effects. Chia may have anti-cancer activity and may add to the effects of anti-cancer drugs. Chia may affect the way in which the liver breaks down some drugs.

In theory, chia may interact with herbs and supplements that have anti-clotting activity, such as ginkgo, garlic, and Dong quai. Salba® may lower blood pressure and should be used with caution in those taking herbs and supplements that also lower blood pressure or have other effects on the heart. Chia may have anti-cancer activity and may add to the effects of herbs and supplements with anti-cancer effects. Chia may affect the way in which the liver breaks down some herbs or supplements.

Chia contains antioxidants and may therefore add to the activity of other antioxidants, such as vitamins A, C, and E. Chia contains omega-3 fatty acids and may add to the effect of other herbs and supplements that contain omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish oil.